The meringue of the dessert is made with a crispy crust that offers a soft, light inside filling –  characteristics meant to honor the airy performances of Anna Pavlova. A favorite during holiday celebrations (like Christmas dinner), Pavlova is made with fresh fruit combinations. Fruit selections may include blackberries, grapes and pineapple. However, the true nature of Pavlova shines through with popular combinations that deliver a delicious union of sweet and tart flavors, such as:

• Peach slices and berries
• Banana and passion fruit
• Kiwi and strawberries

In the United Kingdom, raspberries are often chosen as a topping because the tartness of the berries contrasts well with the sweetness of sugar.

Ingredients and Preparation of Pavlova

Beating egg whites to a stiff consistency is one of the first steps taken to prepare Pavlova. The eggs are then folded in caster sugar (or superfine sugar), white vinegar, cornstarch, and at times, vanilla. A pinch of salt added to the egg whites and vanilla essence act as optional ingredients that enhance the overall appeal of the dessert. The mixture is slow baked to form the crispy, crunchy shell of meringue. The inside of the dessert is spongy and moist – often resembling the softness of a marshmallow. When choosing a topping, many note passion fruit as a must-have ingredient.

Luscious hot fudge topping sits between a flaky crust and a creamy filling for a fruity dessert with something extra!

photo and recipe courtesy of pillsbury.com

INGREDIENTS

1 Pillsbury® refrigerated pie crust (from 15-oz box), softened as directed on box
2/3 cup hot fudge topping
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 pint (2 cups) strawberries, quartered
1/2 cup strawberry pie glaze
1/2 cup whipping (heavy) cream, whipped, if desired

DIRECTIONS

1. Heat oven to 450°F. Make pie crust as directed on box for One-Crust Baked Shell using 9-inch glass pie pan. Bake 9 to 11 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool completely, about 15 minutes.

2. Spread hot fudge topping in bottom of cooled baked shell. Refrigerate 1 hour.

3. In small bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar with electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Carefully spread over chocolate layer in shell.

4. In medium bowl, gently mix strawberries and pie glaze. Spoon evenly over cream cheese layer. Refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour.

5. Just before serving, pipe or spoon whipped cream around edge of pie. Store in refrigerator.

High Altitude (3500-6500 ft): No changes.

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