The Strawberry Meringue Roulade is a show-stopping dessert that combines a delicate meringue shell with a luscious strawberry filling. This impressive yet easy-to-make dish is perfect for special occasions or a delightful treat after dinner. The combination of sweet, crisp meringue and fresh strawberries creates a refreshing dessert that will impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love Strawberry Meringue Roulade
- Light and Airy: The meringue creates a light texture that melts in your mouth.
- Fresh and Fruity: The strawberries add a burst of flavor, making this dessert refreshing.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the filling with other fruits or flavored creams to suit your taste.
Key Ingredients for Strawberry Meringue Roulade
To prepare this delightful roulade, gather the following ingredients:
- Egg Whites: 4 large, at room temperature.
- Caster Sugar: 200g, for sweetening the meringue.
- Cornflour: 1 tsp, to stabilize the meringue.
- White Vinegar: 1 tsp, for a crisp texture.
- Heavy Cream: 300ml, for whipping.
- Fresh Strawberries: 250g, hulled and sliced.
- Icing Sugar: For dusting.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Meringue
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 150°C (300°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Whisk the Egg Whites: In a clean, dry bowl, whisk the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the caster sugar, continuing to whisk until the mixture is glossy and stiff peaks form.
- Fold in Cornflour and Vinegar: Gently fold in the cornflour and white vinegar until combined.
2. Bake the Meringue
- Spread the Meringue: Pour the meringue onto the prepared tray, spreading it into a rectangle about 1cm thick.
- Bake: Place the tray in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the meringue is crisp on the outside and slightly chewy on the inside.
- Cool: Turn off the oven and leave the meringue inside with the door ajar until completely cool.
3. Prepare the Filling
- Whip the Cream: In a bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
- Add Strawberries: Gently fold in the sliced strawberries, reserving a few for decoration.
4. Assemble the Roulade
- Transfer Meringue: Once cool, carefully turn the meringue out onto a clean piece of parchment paper, peeling off the baking paper.
- Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the cream and strawberry mixture over the meringue.
- Roll the Roulade: Using the parchment paper to help, gently roll the meringue into a tight log. Start from the shorter end for a tighter roll.
5. Serve
- Chill: Refrigerate the roulade for at least 30 minutes to set.
- Slice and Serve: Dust with icing sugar and slice into rounds to serve. Garnish with reserved strawberries.
Tips for Perfect Strawberry Meringue Roulade
- Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for better volume.
- Avoid Greasy Bowls: Any grease will prevent the egg whites from whipping properly, so make sure your bowl is clean.
- Gentle Handling: Be gentle when folding in the cream and strawberries to keep the mixture light and airy.
Variations on Strawberry Meringue Roulade
1. Mixed Berry Roulade
- Use a combination of berries such as raspberries and blueberries for a colorful twist.
2. Chocolate Meringue
- Add cocoa powder to the meringue for a chocolate version of this dessert.
3. Citrus Twist
- Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the filling for a zesty flavor boost.
Health Benefits of Strawberries
Strawberries are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:
- Rich in Antioxidants: They are high in vitamin C and other antioxidants, supporting overall health.
- Heart-Healthy: Strawberries may help lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
- Low in Calories: They provide natural sweetness without the guilt, making them a great addition to desserts.
FAQs About Strawberry Meringue Roulade
Can I make this dessert in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meringue a day in advance and assemble it on the day of serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover roulade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using.
What can I serve with this dessert?
Pair it with extra whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Conclusion
The Strawberry Meringue Roulade is a delightful dessert that combines light meringue with fresh strawberries and cream. It’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying on a warm day. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself, this roulade will surely satisfy your sweet cravings.
For more delightful desserts, check out our Vegan Spicy Sausage Casserole or Easy Microwave Recipes for more ideas.