Mini Strawberry Pavlova

Ingredients

• 8 meringue nests (click for my tutorial if you want to make your own)
• 200 g strawberries
• A little caster sugar (optional)
• 150 ml whipping or double cream
• 1/2 vanilla extract
• A little dark chocolate to garnish

Instructions

1. 1

   Start by whipping your cream, I use an electric mixer but if you've got strong enough arm muscles you can do it by hand. If you're using an electric mixer check it regularly to ensure that you don't over-whip it (take a look at my tip at the bottom if you do!). You want it to be soft and smooth but firm enough to hold it's shape if you remove the beaters (although in a slightly sloppy way rather than really firm).

2. 2

   While the cream is whipping, remove the green bits from your strawberries and chop then into slices.

3. 3

   Once your cream has whipped, add the vanilla extract and fold it in so it's evenly distributed

4. 4

   Spoon the cream into the meringue nests and top each one with strawberry slices. If strawberries are out of season you may find they're a little sharp. If this is the case sprinkle a pinch of caster sugar over each one to add a little extra sweetness.

5. 5

   Use a peeler to shave a little dark chocolate on top of each one and serve (they also look really pretty garnished with some mint leaves if you have any).