Description
A light and airy Strawberry Meringue Cake featuring crisp, sweet meringue layers filled with luscious whipped cream and fresh berries. This dessert is a perfect balance of crunchy texture and creamy, fruity freshness, ideal for special occasions or elegant summer treats.
Ingredients
Scale
Meringue Layers
- 4 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Whipped Cream Filling
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream (cold)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fruit and Garnish
- 3-4 cups fresh strawberries (sliced)
- ½ cup fresh blueberries
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the Meringue: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add 1 cup granulated sugar, a tablespoon at a time, while increasing the speed to high. Continue beating until the meringue is glossy and forms stiff peaks. Gently fold in the cornstarch to stabilize the meringue.
- Bake the Meringue Layers: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Spoon or pipe the meringue into two equal circular layers about 8 inches in diameter. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes, then turn off the oven and leave the meringues inside to cool completely and dry out further for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour. This results in crisp, dry meringue shells.
- Prepare Whipped Cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the cold heavy cream with ¼ cup sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Be sure not to over whip to avoid turning the cream grainy or buttery.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one meringue layer on your serving plate. Spread half of the whipped cream evenly over it. Arrange a layer of sliced strawberries and some blueberries over the cream. Top with the second meringue layer, then spread the remaining whipped cream on top. Decorate the top with the remaining strawberries, blueberries, and fresh mint leaves for a beautiful finish.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the cream to set. Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor experience.
Notes
- Use room temperature egg whites for better volume when whisking the meringue.
- Ensure all mixing bowls and beaters are completely clean and free of grease to achieve stiff meringue peaks.
- For extra crisp meringue, avoid opening the oven during baking and cooling phases.
- Whipped cream should be kept cold until ready to use to maintain its stability.
- Fresh berries add brightness and natural sweetness; feel free to substitute with other berries seasonally.
