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Light and Fluffy Pavlova Cookie Recipe with Strawberry Jam Perfect for Beginners

light and fluffy pavlova cookie with strawberry jam - featured image

A delicate, airy pavlova cookie with a crisp shell, marshmallowy center, and topped with sweet strawberry jam. Perfect for beginners and quick to make with simple pantry staples.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) strawberry jam
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Separate the egg whites carefully, ensuring no yolk gets in. Let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
  3. Start whipping the egg whites on medium speed until frothy, about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Gradually add sugar one tablespoon at a time while beating at high speed until the mixture is thick, glossy, and holds stiff peaks, about 8-10 minutes.
  5. Gently fold in cornstarch, vinegar, vanilla extract, and salt using a spatula with slow, careful motions.
  6. Shape the pavlova cookies using a spoon or piping bag onto the parchment-lined baking sheet, making small round nests about 3 inches wide with a slight well in the center.
  7. Bake for 60-70 minutes, then turn off the oven and leave the pavlovas inside to cool completely with the door slightly ajar.
  8. Once cooled, top each pavlova with a thin layer of strawberry jam.

Notes

Use room temperature eggs for better volume. Add sugar slowly to dissolve fully and avoid gritty texture. Fold ingredients gently to keep air in the meringue. Bake low and slow to prevent browning and cracking. Cool pavlovas in the oven with door ajar to maintain marshmallow center. If meringue cracks or browns slightly, it does not affect taste. For vegan version, try aquafaba instead of egg whites but texture will differ.

Nutrition

Keywords: pavlova, pavlova cookies, strawberry jam, meringue, dessert, easy dessert, beginner baking, light dessert, fluffy pavlova