Pavlova Nests

Pavlova Nests are perfect to serve on a grazing board or as individual Mini Pavlovas for dessert.

I've used Nana Ling's basic pavlova recipe and adjusted the cooking time to create this "mini pavlova" recipe. 

Ingredient notes

The ingredient measurements can be found in the recipe card at the end of this post.

Make sure you use caster sugar rather than regular sugar, as this will dissolve easier. Undissolved grains of sugar can cause weeping and cracking.

Make sure egg whites are fresh and at room temperature – this will help create more volume, making your pavlova nests light and crisp. Also, be very careful not to get any yolk in the egg white when separating yolks from the whites. The fat from the yolk ruins the ability of the white to fluff up.

How to make Pavlova Nests

Start by preheating your oven to 120 degrees celsius / 250 degrees fahrenheit (fan-forced) and lining a few baking trays with baking paper.

Beat egg whites and salt on medium-high speed (using a stand mixer or handheld electric beater) until the mixture forms soft peaks (see image 1).

Next, add the sugar gradually while mixing on low speed. Then return to med-high speed and beat for another three minutes. The mixture should look thick and glossy and form soft peaks (see image 2) – if it doesn't continue beating for another minute.

Return the mixture to low speed and add vanilla essence and vinegar. Mix until combined.

Use a piping bag to create 8 small nest shapes of about 7-8 cm in diameter.

Before placing the trays in the oven, turn the oven temperature down to 100 degrees celsius / 210 degrees fahrenheit (fan-forced).

Cook for 40 minutes and then turn oven off. DO NOT open the oven door. Leave the pavlova nests to cool in the oven for at least a few hours, preferably half a day.

Once completely cool, remove from the oven.

Creating a memorable dessert

Pavlova Nests are a blank canvas for you to create a dessert your guests will remember.

Here, I've gone with the traditional cream and fruit filling.

Other options include:

• cherries, shaved chocolate and ice cream
• banana, caramel and cream
• mango and gelato
• strawberries and yoghurt. 

Storing Pavlova Nests

You can store your pavlova nests or mini pavlovas in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

More individual dessert ideas

Mini desserts are such a treat. Here are some more you might like to try:

Made this recipe and love it? Please take a moment to rate the recipe and leave a comment below. It’s such a help to others who want to try the recipe. (And it really makes my day to hear how Nana Ling's recipes are being made, shared and loved all around the world! - Libby x)

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