If you’re looking for a French dessert that is light, festive, and irresistibly beautiful, let me introduce you to one of France’s most beloved classics : the Red Berry Vacherin.
Crisp meringue, velvety whipped cream, and a tangy red berry coulis… it’s a show-stopping sweet treat that looks like it came straight from a Parisian pâtisserie — yet it’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

Whether you’re preparing for a holiday celebration, a dinner party, or simply craving a taste of authentic French indulgence, this recipe will become one of your favourites.

And if you enjoy French culture, hidden gems, and delicious recipes, don’t forget to subscribe to receive more charming glimpses of France in your inbox.

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What Is a Vacherin?

A vacherin is a traditional French dessert made of layers of crunchy meringue and sweetened whipped cream, often paired with fruit or ice cream.
It’s the perfect combination of crisp, airy, and creamy — delicate yet incredibly satisfying.

This version features red berries, which bring freshness and colour, making it ideal for festive occasions.

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Red Berry Vacherin (Classic French Recipe)

Ingredients (6–8 servings)

For the meringues:

• 4 egg whites
• 200 g sugar
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp white vinegar

For the whipped cream:

• 400 ml cold heavy cream
• 50 g powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the berry coulis:

• 300 g frozen red berries
• 80 g sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

To decorate:

• Fresh berries (raspberries, currants, strawberries)
• Icing sugar

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Instructions

1. Make the meringues

1. Preheat the oven to 110°C (230°F).
2. Whip the egg whites until soft peaks form.
3. Add the sugar gradually while continuing to whip until glossy and firm.
4. Add the cornstarch and vinegar.
5. On a baking tray lined with parchment paper, shape two circles of 20 cm.
6. Bake for 1 hour 30 minutes, then let cool in the switched-off oven.

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2. Prepare the berry coulis

1. Heat the berries with sugar and lemon juice in a saucepan.
2. Simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Blend and strain if you want a smooth texture.
4. Let cool completely.

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3. Whip the cream

Whip the cold cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft, fluffy peaks form.

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4. Assemble your vacherin

1. Place the first meringue circle on a serving plate.
2. Cover with half of the whipped cream and half of the coulis.
3. Add the second meringue.
4. Spread the remaining cream on top.
5. Drizzle with the remaining coulis.
6. Decorate with fresh berries and a dusting of icing sugar.

Tip: You can freeze the vacherin (without fresh berries) and serve it semi-frozen — a wonderful refreshing treat.

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Why You Will Love This Dessert

• Light yet indulgent: perfect after a rich meal
• Naturally gluten-free
• Looks like a pâtisserie masterpiece
• Ideal for Christmas, birthdays, or romantic dinners
• Make-ahead friendly: the meringue can be prepared one day in advance

This dessert brings a touch of French elegance to your table — with minimal effort and maximum wow effect.