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Watermelon, Lime and Mint Sugar Pavlova Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 517 reviews

This Watermelon, Lime, and Mint Sugar Pavlova is a refreshing and light dessert perfect for warm weather. It features a crisp, glossy meringue base baked to perfection, topped with a creamy blend of whipped double cream and natural yogurt flavored with zesty lime and sweet mint sugar. Finished with juicy watermelon wedges and fresh mint, this pavlova delivers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that are both vibrant and indulgent.

Ingredients

Scale

Meringue Base

  • ½ lemon, juiced (reserve the other half)
  • 6 large egg whites
  • 350g caster sugar
  • 2 tsp cornflour
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Mint Sugar

  • handful of mint leaves, plus extra to serve
  • 50g caster sugar

Topping

  • 400ml double cream
  • 200g natural yogurt
  • 1 lime, zested
  • small watermelon, cut into wedges and rind removed

Instructions

  1. Prepare the baking sheet: Line a large baking sheet with baking parchment. Using an 18cm round cake tin or plate as a guide, draw a circle on the parchment, then flip it over so the drawn side is underneath. Preheat the oven to 130°C (110°C fan)/gas mark ½.
  2. Whisk egg whites: Rub the reserved lemon half around the inside of a large bowl or stand mixer, then wipe away excess to remove any oil. Add egg whites and whisk on low speed until foamy bubbles form, about 1-2 minutes, then continue whisking until the mixture resembles shaving foam.
  3. Add sugar and thicken meringue: Gradually add the caster sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while whisking. Continue until the meringue is thick, glossy, and smooth—rub some between your fingers to ensure no sugar grains remain.
  4. Incorporate cornflour, lemon juice, and vanilla: Add the cornflour, lemon juice from the reserved lemon half, and vanilla extract, whisking for an additional 30 seconds to combine.
  5. Shape the pavlova base: Spoon the meringue onto the prepared baking parchment inside the drawn circle. Use a palette knife to spread the meringue evenly to the edges, swiping around the edge to create a slight ridge and smoothing the top.
  6. Bake the meringue: Bake for 15 minutes at 130°C (110°C fan). Then reduce the oven temperature to 100°C (80°C fan)/gas mark ¼ and continue baking for 1 hour. After baking, turn off the oven and leave the pavlova inside to cool completely for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight.
  7. Remove parchment and invert pavlova: Carefully invert the pavlova and peel away the baking parchment. Small cracks are normal and will be covered by the topping.
  8. Prepare mint sugar: Blitz the handful of mint leaves with 50g caster sugar in a food processor or blender until finely chopped and combined.
  9. Make the cream topping: Whisk the double cream and natural yogurt together with an electric whisk until just holding its shape. Sprinkle in the lime zest and half of the mint sugar, then fold gently with a metal spoon to create ripples.
  10. Assemble the pavlova: Spoon the cream mixture over the pavlova base. Sprinkle the remaining mint sugar on top, then arrange the watermelon wedges decoratively. Garnish with extra mint leaves and serve with lime wedges to squeeze over as desired.
  11. Serving and storage: Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. Leftovers can be kept refrigerated for up to two days but are best enjoyed fresh.

Notes

  • Ensure the egg whites bowl and whisk are completely clean and free of grease for best meringue volume.
  • Gradually adding sugar helps achieve a stable, glossy meringue.
  • The cornflour helps stabilize the meringue and maintain its structure during baking.
  • Cooling the pavlova in the oven prevents cracks caused by sudden temperature changes.
  • Using natural yogurt in the topping adds tanginess balancing the sweetness.
  • Mint sugar can be made in advance and stored airtight for flavor enhancement.
  • This pavlova is best eaten the same day it is topped, as the meringue can become soggy with prolonged contact with cream.

Keywords: pavlova, meringue dessert, watermelon dessert, mint sugar, lime zest, summer dessert, creamy topping

Find it online: https://spatulaqueen.com/watermelon-lime-and-mint-sugar-pavlova-recipe/