Pavlova - The Perfect Summer Dessert

I first made this dessert because my aunt has a birthday mid August and cannot eat gluten. We are often together on her birthday as we have cottages beside each other. Unlike other gluten free desserts, this one is one everyone loves. Crackly and chewy on the top and bottom with a gooey middle, you can't go wrong. A New Zealander gave me this recipe which she found in a Better Homes and Gardens magazine and the only thing I have altered was the amount of sugar. It's a beautiful, gluten free, light dessert that can be topped whatever seasonal fruit you have. It's foolproof......that's right.....foolproof. I'm not a baker, so I appreciate a recipe that allows me to tailor it to my tastes (fruits of choice) and guarantees me a wowser.

This is where it all begins. The meringue. There are specific instructions here but anyone can follow them. I've also made this exact recipe with six - eight small meringues. This allowed me to create a sort of "meringue bar" where everyone chose their toppings. Some of the fruit was made into a compote while some was fresh depending on what is in season.

Add whip cream before the fruit. I just add a tablespoon of sugar and a teaspoon of vanilla to my whip cream. I layer it on thick but don't do this until just before serving. My daughter doesn't do well with dairy so coconut milk whip cream is a delightful alternative.