Lemon Blueberry Pavlova – A Crisp Meringue Dessert with Fluffy
Lemon Blueberry Pavlova is a light and elegant dessert featuring a crisp meringue shell with a soft marshmallow-like center, topped with freshly whipped cream, tangy lemon curd, and juicy blueberries. The refreshing combination of citrus and berries makes it perfect for warm-weather entertaining, holiday celebrations, or special occasions. Despite its impressive appearance, the recipe is easy to prepare with simple ingredients and delivers bakery-quality results every time.
Ingredients
For the Meringue
- 4 large egg whites, room temperature
- 1 cup superfine sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping
- 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup lemon curd
- 1½ cups fresh blueberries
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Beat the egg whites until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the superfine sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Gently fold in the cornstarch, vinegar, and vanilla extract.
- Spoon the meringue onto the prepared tray, shaping it into an 8-inch circle with a slight indentation in the center.
- Bake for 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- Turn off the oven and allow the Pavlova to cool completely inside the oven with the door slightly ajar.
- Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Transfer the cooled Pavlova to a serving platter.
- Spread the whipped cream over the center.
- Spoon the lemon curd over the cream and top with fresh blueberries.
- Finish with lemon zest and mint leaves before serving immediately.
Notes
- Use room-temperature egg whites for maximum volume.
- Ensure the mixing bowl is completely clean and grease-free.
- Add sugar gradually for a smooth, glossy meringue.
- Avoid baking on humid days for the crispiest shell.
- Cool the Pavlova slowly to reduce cracking.
- Assemble just before serving to maintain the crisp texture.
- Fresh blueberries provide the best flavor and appearance.
- Homemade lemon curd offers the brightest citrus taste.