# Peach and Rose Pavlova Valentine’s Day Post
## Introduction
Celebrate the season of love with an irresistibly romantic and delightful dessert – Peach and Rose Pavlova! This enchanting dessert is made of a crisp meringue shell filled with luscious whipped cream, subtly infused with the essence of rose, and topped with fragrant, ripe peaches.
## Why Make This Recipe
Peach and Rose Pavlova is the perfect dessert to make for Valentine’s Day because its elegance and sophistication embody the spirit of the occasion. It’s visually appealing with beautiful colors and textures, and the combination of peaches and rose offers a unique, fresh, and delicate flavor. With each bite, one can experience a harmony of sweetness, creaminess, and a subtle floral note.
## How to Make Peach and Rose Pavlova
### Prep Time: 20 minutes
### Bake Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
### Cooling Time: 1 hour
### Total Time: Approximately 3 hours
### Servings: 2
### Ingredients:
#### For the Meringue:
– 2 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
#### For the Topping:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon rosewater
– 2 ripe peaches, thinly sliced
– Edible rose petals (optional, for garnish)
– Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
### Directions:
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Set your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Prepare the Meringue**: In a clean, dry bowl, whip the egg whites using a mixer on medium speed until foamy. Then, add the cream of tartar and beat until soft peaks form. Gradually introduce sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating on high until stiff peaks form. Softly fold in the cornstarch and vanilla extract.
3. **Shape the Meringue**: Spoon the meringue onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping it into a small circular nest with slightly raised edges to hold the filling.
4. **Bake**: Place the meringue in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 20 minutes. Then, turn off the oven and allow the meringue to cool inside, with the door slightly ajar, for at least 1 additional hour.
5. **Whip the Cream**: Just before serving, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and rosewater until soft peaks form.
6. **Assemble the Pavlova**: Carefully transfer the cooled meringue to a serving platter. Top with the rose-infused whipped cream, layer peach slices on top and garnish with edible rose petals and mint leaves, if desired.
## How to Serve Peach and Rose Pavlova
Serve this exquisite dessert straightaway after assembly. Place a generous piece on a dessert plate and enjoy with a spoon, savoring every bite. Pair it with a glass of sparkling wine or champagne to enhance the romantic Valentine’s Day moment.
## How to Store Peach and Rose Pavlova
If there are leftovers, deconstruct it before storing it by separating the meringue, cream, and peaches. Store each component separately in the refrigerator. Before serving, reassemble the pavlova.
## Tips to Make Peach and Rose Pavlova
– Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature before you start whipping them.
– Slowly add the sugar to the eggs to ensure stability and shine of the meringue.
– Do not open the oven door while the meringue is baking or cooling in order to prevent cracks from forming.
## Variation
If you can’t find fresh peaches, feel free to use canned peaches or even switch peaches with strawberries or raspberries.
## FAQs
– **Q: Can I use a different fruit? A:** Yes, while peaches are recommended for this recipe, strawberries or raspberries make delicious alternatives.
– **Q: Can I prepare the meringue in advance? A:** Yes, you can bake the meringue a day in advance. Cool it thoroughly and store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
– **Q: Can I substitute cream of tartar? A:** Yes, you can substitute cream of tartar with an equal amount of white vinegar or lemon juice. It is used to stabilize the meringue.