Decadent Delight: Pavlova with Mascarpone Cream, Salted Caramel, and Popcorn

Indulge in a dessert that’s a symphony of textures and flavours! Our Pavlova with Mascarpone Cream, Salted Caramel, and Popcorn is a masterpiece that combines the delicate sweetness of pavlova, the velvety richness of mascarpone cream, the irresistible allure of salted caramel, and the playful crunch of popcorn. This dessert is a true work of art that will elevate any occasion, from a casual gathering to a special celebration.

The Perfect Pavlova: At the heart of this dessert lies a beautifully crisp pavlova base. With its airy interior and crisp exterior, Pavlova provides the perfect canvas for luscious toppings. Be sure to follow our step-by-step instructions to create the ideal pavlova foundation.

Creamy Dreams with Mascarpone: The mascarpone cream is a luxurious layer that adds depth and richness to each bite. The combination of fluffy whipped cream and velvety mascarpone cheese creates a harmonious contrast to the delicate pavlova. The hint of vanilla in the cream enhances the overall flavour profile.

Savouring Salted Caramel: No dessert is complete without a touch of caramel magic. Our homemade salted caramel drizzle adds a touch of sophistication to the dish. The interplay between the sweet caramel and the hint of sea salt elevates the flavours and keeps your taste buds intrigued.

Popcorn Playfulness: What truly sets this dessert apart is the surprising addition of freshly popped popcorn. Its crunchiness adds a playful and unexpected element that balances the sweetness and adds a delightful texture to each spoonful.

A Visual Feast: Presented on a platter, this dessert is a visual feast. The contrasting colours of the vibrant berries, the golden caramel, and the snowy-white pavlova are a treat for the eyes, inviting everyone to dig in and experience the medley of flavours.

Creating Memorable Moments: Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to impress your loved ones with a show-stopping dessert, our Pavlova with Mascarpone Cream, Salted Caramel, and Popcorn is the perfect choice. It’s a dessert that sparks conversations, creates memories, and leaves a lasting impression on your taste buds.

Recipe: Pavlova with Mascarpone Cream, Salted Caramel, and Popcorn

Servings: 8-10

Ingredients:

For the Pavlova:

• 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Mascarpone Cream:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Salted Caramel:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)

For Assembly:

• Fresh berries of your choice (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Freshly popped popcorn

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pavlova:

• Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form.
• Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat the egg whites. Beat until the mixture is glossy and holds stiff peaks.
• Gently fold in the vinegar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract.
• Spoon the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming a circular base with slightly raised edges.
• Bake for 1 hour or until the pavlova is crisp on the outside. Turn off the oven and let the pavlova cool inside with the oven door slightly ajar.

2. Make the Mascarpone Cream:

• In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
• In another bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined. Refrigerate until ready to use.

3. Prepare the Salted Caramel:

• Heat the granulated sugar in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. The sugar will melt and turn into an amber-coloured liquid.
• Once the sugar has melted completely, add the cubed butter and stir until fully incorporated.
• Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring vigorously. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble up.
• Continue to cook the caramel for another 2-3 minutes, until smooth and thickened.
• Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt. Adjust the amount of salt according to your preference. Let the caramel cool before using.

4. Assemble the Pavlova:

• Carefully transfer the cooled pavlova to a serving platter.
• Spread the mascarpone cream over the pavlova base, leaving a border around the edges.
• Drizzle the salted caramel over the cream, allowing some to drip down the sides.
• Scatter fresh berries over the cream and caramel.
• Finish by garnishing with freshly popped popcorn for a delightful crunch and visual appeal.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

• Slice the pavlova into wedges and serve immediately. The contrast of the crisp meringue, creamy mascarpone, gooey caramel, and crunchy popcorn will delight your taste buds in every bite.

Elevate your dessert game with our Pavlova creation that’s a harmonious blend of textures and flavours. The crisp pavlova, velvety mascarpone cream, decadent salted caramel, and playful popcorn come together to create a dessert that’s as visually appealing as it is delectable. So, gather your ingredients, follow our recipe, and get ready to indulge in a dessert experience that’s truly extraordinary.