# Ingredient List:
→ Meringue
01 - 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
02 - 1 cup superfine sugar
03 - 1 teaspoon cornstarch
04 - 1 teaspoon white vinegar
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Whipped Cream
06 - 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
07 - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Topping
09 - 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
10 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, optional for macerating
11 - Fresh mint leaves, optional for garnish
# Steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 275°F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper and draw a 9-inch circle as guide.
02 - In clean, dry bowl, beat egg whites with electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
03 - Add superfine sugar one tablespoon at a time while beating on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form, approximately 7 to 10 minutes.
04 - Gently fold in cornstarch, vinegar, and vanilla extract using spatula with minimal mixing to preserve volume.
05 - Spoon meringue onto prepared baking sheet using circle as guide. Shape into disc with slightly raised edges to form nest shape. Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes.
06 - Turn off oven and allow meringue to cool completely inside oven with door slightly ajar for at least 2 hours.
07 - In chilled bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
08 - In separate bowl, toss sliced strawberries with granulated sugar if desired. Let sit for 10 minutes to release juices.
09 - Carefully transfer cooled meringue to serving plate. Spread whipped cream evenly over center, leaving slight border.
10 - Top with macerated strawberries and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately.
