Pavlova

1. Preheat oven to 250 degrees.

2. Add 3 egg whites to mixing bowl or stand mixer bowl.

3. Measure out 3/4 cup sugar plus 2 tsp cornstarch, give it a mix and set aside.

4. Whisk or mix egg whites until they reach the "ribbon" stage, meaning if you drip some on the surface it holds it shape for a few minutes. This can take a while and the eggs will look noticeably fluffy. A hand mixer or stand mixer makes this process much easier.

5. Add the sugar and cornstarch mixture gradually in four parts. Mix for a minute or two after adding each portion so it is well-blended before adding more. Continue mixing until the dry ingredients are completely dissolved (mixture should be smooth and not grainy).

6. Add 3/4 tsp white vinegar, and 1 tsp vanilla. Mix until well-blended again.

7. Continue to whisk and whip until it's shiny, and very glossy. Keep whisking until it's stiff enough to hold a shape.

8. Pour mixture on to a lined baking sheet. You can use silicone, parchment or wax paper.

9. Build up high then spread until it is approximately 2-inches thick in a round circle.

10. Gently tap the top of the Pavlova with the back of a spoon to create small, pointy peaks. This adds to the crunchy shell texture.

11. Place in preheated oven and bake at 250 degrees for one hour.

12. Cool on a rack when done.

13. When it bakes it gets a nice crisp crust, and the inside stays soft. You can hear how the surface is crispy. It's going to crack when it cools.

14. Optional Toppings:

15. Gently tap the baked pavlova with the back of a spoon, cracking the top center area to create a shallow well.

16. Place heavy cream in mixing bowl and mix well until fluffy and thick. This will take several minutes and is easiest when done with a hand mixer or stand mixer. The consistency will be similar to a tub of whipped topping (similar to that used on pies and ice cream). Pre-made whipped topping can be substituted, but the homemade version is extremely tasty!

17. Add a few tablespoons of sugar for flavor. I added four or five and continued mixing until it was well-blended. You can add more or less based on the level of sweetness you prefer.

18. Add whipped cream to center of pavlova, filling the well. Spread around the sides.

19. Decorate top with kiwi, strawberries and/or berries.