Pavlova
To make the most delicious meringue cups, it is essential to follow a few important tricks and steps. First, make sure the egg whites are at room temperature, as this helps achieve a light and stable foam. Start by preheating the oven to 150°C (300°F) and placing a sheet of parchment paper on a tray. Using a pencil or a template, draw circles with a diameter of 3 cm, leaving a distance of 2 cm between them. This will be the base for your cups.
In a deep bowl, add the egg whites and start beating them with a mixer on medium speed. Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, mixing continuously. For an extra flavor, it is recommended to mix the sugar with grated lemon zest and, optionally, a bit of cocoa. Continue beating the egg whites until the mixture becomes very firm and shiny. It is a sign that the foam is ready when, lifting the mixer’s beaters, it holds its shape without collapsing.
Once you have achieved a perfect meringue, fill a piping bag with a nozzle and form the cups on the circles drawn on the parchment paper. Make sure to fill the circles so that you create both a base and raised edges that will hold the filling. Bake the cups in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After this time, turn off the oven, but do not open the door! Let them cool in the oven for another hour to prevent cracking.
Meanwhile, prepare the delicious filling. In a small bowl, mix 4 teaspoons of sugar with one tablespoon of cocoa. In another bowl, combine the cheese, vanilla, and the sugar-cocoa mixture. Gradually add milk or liquid cream until you achieve a smooth and spreadable cream. Once the cups have completely cooled, carefully remove them from the tray and fill them with the cream cheese.
To give a vibrant and tasty appearance, top with fresh fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, or kiwi. If you don’t have fresh fruits on hand, feel free to improvise; grapes boiled in tea can add an interesting note and a pleasant taste. Even if the appearance is not commercial, the delight of the taste will bring smiles to everyone’s faces. These meringue cups are ideal for serving on various occasions, leaving a special impression and adding a touch of refinement to any meal. Enjoy every bite!
Ingredients: 2 egg whites, 170 g sugar, 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest, 4 teaspoons sugar, 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder, about 50 g of mascarpone or soft Philadelphia cream cheese, vanilla to taste, 2 tablespoons of milk (liquid cream), fresh fruits - raspberries and/or blueberries/currants.
Tags: milk sugar lemon cocoa christmas and new year's recipes vegetarian recipes