Gooseberry syllabub pavlova

Method

• step 1

  Preheat the oven to 150C/gas 2/fan 130C. Line a heavy baking sheet with baking parchment and draw a 24cm/91⁄2in circle on it.

• step 2

  Put the egg whites into a very large, grease-free bowl. Mix the cornflour and sugar together, then tip half into the egg whites. Using electric beaters, whisk until thick and glossy, and stands up in firm peaks. Tip in the rest of the sugar, add the vinegar, and continue whisking until thoroughly incorporated.

• step 3

  Spread the meringue over the circle, leaving a 1cm/1⁄2in border. Using the back of a large spoon, make a shallow dip in the middle for the filling, then build up the sides as high as you can, using a palette knife to make swirly peaks on top.

• step 4

  Bake the meringue case on the middle shelf for 20 minutes. Reduce to 140C/gas 1/fan 120C and bake for 40 minutes (1 hour in a gas oven). Turn off the oven but leave the meringue inside for 1-3 hours, with the door closed.

• step 5

  Meanwhile, gently cook the gooseberries and 100g/4oz sugar, covered, over a low heat for 15 minutes, stirring once or twice. When they are soft, drain (discarding the juices) and leave to cool thoroughly.

• step 6

  To make the syllabub, whisk the brandy, lemon juice and 2 tbsp sugar in a large bowl for 1 minute. Pour in the elderflower cordial and cream and whisk until mixture forms soft peaks. Fold in the drained fruit .

• step 7

  Remove the parchment from the meringue, then put the case on a large flat plate or cake stand. Pile in the syllabub filling and serve immediately.