Save Experience the comforting warmth of a classic winter cocktail reimagined as a sophisticated dessert. These Mini Hot Toddy Pavlovas blend the airy, crisp nature of traditional meringue with the bold, aromatic flavors of whisky-poached pears and warming spices. It is a playful yet elegant treat that brings a spirited touch to any table.
Save The secret to this dessert lies in the harmony between the spiced meringue base and the luscious fruit topping. By infusing the meringues with cinnamon and nutmeg, every bite delivers a fragrant depth that perfectly complements the whisky-infused pears.
Ingredients
- Meringues: 4 large egg whites (room temperature), 220 g (1 cup) caster sugar, 1 tsp cornstarch, ½ tsp cream of tartar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, ½ tsp ground cinnamon, ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- Poached Pears: 2 ripe pears (peeled, cored, and diced), 60 ml (¼ cup) whisky (such as Scotch or bourbon), 60 ml (¼ cup) water, 40 g (3 tbsp) brown sugar, 1 cinnamon stick, 3 whole cloves, 1 strip lemon zest
- Whipped Cream: 200 ml heavy cream (chilled), 1 tbsp icing sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Garnish: Extra ground cinnamon (optional), lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 120°C (250°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- In a clean, dry mixing bowl, whisk egg whites until soft peaks form. Add cream of tartar and whisk to combine.
- Step 3
- Gradually add the caster sugar, one tablespoon at a time, whisking until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Step 4
- Gently fold in cornstarch, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Step 5
- Spoon or pipe 8 small meringue nests onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
- Step 6
- Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes, or until crisp and dry. Turn off oven and let meringues cool inside with the door ajar.
- Step 7
- Meanwhile, prepare poached pears: In a saucepan, combine whisky, water, brown sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, and lemon zest. Bring to a simmer.
- Step 8
- Add diced pears and cook gently for 10-12 minutes, until tender but not mushy. Remove pears with a slotted spoon and let cool. Discard spices and zest.
- Step 9
- For the whipped cream, beat heavy cream, icing sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Chill until needed.
- Step 10
- To assemble, top each pavlova with a dollop of whipped cream and spoonfuls of spiced pears. Drizzle with a little poaching syrup if desired.
- Step 11
- Garnish with extra cinnamon or lemon zest.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Ensure your mixing bowl and whisk are completely grease-free before starting the meringues, as any residual oil can prevent the egg whites from reaching their full volume. Letting the pavlovas cool completely inside the oven with the door ajar helps prevent them from cracking due to sudden temperature changes.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the whisky in the poaching liquid with apple juice or pear nectar. If pears aren't in season, this recipe works beautifully with diced apples or even quinces, though cooking times for the fruit may vary slightly.
Serviervorschläge
These mini pavlovas are best served immediately after assembly to maintain the crispness of the meringue. Pair them with a glass of the same whisky used in the recipe or a cup of spiced black tea to enhance the warming botanical notes of the dessert.
Save Whether you are looking for a show-stopping end to a holiday meal or a cozy weekend treat, these Mini Hot Toddy Pavlovas offer a sophisticated balance of textures and flavors that will delight any dessert lover.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I make the meringues ahead of time?
Yes, meringues can be baked up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Only assemble with cream and pears just before serving to maintain crispness.
- → What type of whisky works best for this dessert?
A smooth Scotch or bourbon works beautifully. Choose a whisky you enjoy drinking, as its flavor will shine through in the poached pears. Avoid heavily peated varieties unless you prefer that intense flavor.
- → How do I prevent my meringues from cracking?
Allow meringues to cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly ajar. Avoid sudden temperature changes, and ensure your bowl and whisk are completely grease-free when beating the egg whites.
- → Can I make this without alcohol?
Absolutely. Replace the whisky with apple juice, pear nectar, or even strong black tea for a similar depth of flavor without the alcohol content.
- → What other fruits work well in place of pears?
Apples, quinces, or even stone fruits like peaches or plums make excellent substitutes. Adjust cooking time based on the fruit's firmness—softer fruits will need less time to poach.
- → How should I store leftover pavlovas?
Store unfilled meringues in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Once assembled, pavlovas should be eaten immediately as the cream and fruit will soften the meringue.