Pavlova Dessert with Mandarin Curd Classic Margherita Pizza Recipe

Indulge in this beautiful Pavlova that combines a crunchy meringue shell, rich mandarin curd, and luscious whipped cream, garnished with seasonal fruits. It's a show-stopping dessert for any gathering!

Preparation Time
Total: 6 hours
Active: 50 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients for Meringue

• Granulated sugar: 10.6 oz (300 g)
• Egg whites: 6
• Lemon juice: 1.5 teaspoons
• Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons

Ingredients for Curd

• Mandarins: 6–8
• Sugar: 4.6 oz (130 g)
• Egg yolks: 6
• Unsalted butter: 3.5 oz (100 g)
• Pinch of salt

Ingredients for Cream and Topping

• Heavy cream (33% fat): 15.2 fl oz (450 ml)
• Powdered sugar: 2–3 tablespoons
• Mandarins: to taste
• Pomegranate seeds: to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meringue:

   • Preheat the oven to 248°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • In a clean, dry bowl, whip the egg whites with a mixer for 2–3 minutes until soft peaks form.
   • Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to whip for 5–7 minutes until thick and glossy, with all sugar crystals dissolved.
   • Add lemon juice and vanilla extract, and whip for another minute.
   • Spoon the meringue onto the prepared baking sheet, forming a dome shape (about 8–8.5 inches in diameter). Smooth the top and create a slight indentation in the center.
   • Bake for 2 hours, then turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the meringue cool completely (about 3–4 hours).

2. Prepare the Mandarin Curd:

   • Zest the mandarins and squeeze out the juice. Measure out 2 tablespoons of zest and 120 ml of juice.
   • In a small saucepan, combine egg yolks, sugar, salt, mandarin juice, and zest. Cook over low heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly until thickened.
   • Remove from heat and stir in the cubed butter until smooth.
   • Let the curd cool, cover with plastic wrap (pressing it directly onto the surface), and refrigerate.

3. Prepare the Whipped Cream:

   • In a cold bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and whip until stiff peaks form.

4. Assemble the Pavlova:

   • Carefully crack the top of the cooled meringue by gently tapping it with a spoon.
   • Spread the whipped cream on top of the meringue, drizzle with mandarin curd, and decorate with fresh mandarin slices and pomegranate seeds.

5. Serve:

   • Serve the Pavlova immediately or chill it for a short time before serving.

Enjoy your beautiful Pavlova with mandarin curd! 🍊✨