Dreamy Pavlova Recipe

Divine Cloud Dessert: Our Simple Pavlova Recipe

Delicate meringue pavlova recipe dances on the edge of culinary artistry, promising a dessert that melts hearts with its crisp exterior and pillowy center.

Clouds of whipped egg whites create a magical canvas for vibrant fresh fruits and silky cream.

Every bite whispers sweet sophistication and elegant simplicity.

This Australian-inspired treat combines crisp meringue with luscious toppings in a stunning display of dessert perfection.

Light, airy, and breathtakingly beautiful, the pavlova transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary experience.

Prepare to impress with this show-stopping dessert that celebrates pure deliciousness.

Serving Pavlova Recipe The Simple Way

  • Elegant Dessert Display: Arrange the pavlova on a beautiful white platter with delicate gold rimming for an impressive centerpiece that'll wow dinner guests.
  • Seasonal Berry Burst: Top with a vibrant mixture of fresh summer strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries to create a colorful and refreshing dessert that screams sunshine.
  • Whipped Cream Elevation: Dollop rich, silky homemade whipped cream around the edges of the pavlova, creating soft peaks that complement the crispy meringue texture and add luxurious creaminess.
  • Garnish Glamour: Sprinkle finely chopped mint leaves or edible flowers like lavender on top for a sophisticated touch that adds subtle flavor and elegant visual appeal.

Keep Pavlova Recipe Fresh And Tasty

  • Make-Ahead Magic: Whip up the meringue base 1-2 days before your event and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep it away from humidity to maintain its delicate crisp texture.
  • Topping Timing: Fresh fruits are best added just before serving to prevent sogginess. Slice strawberries, kiwis, or peaches right when you're ready to serve for maximum visual appeal and flavor crispness.
  • Refrigeration Rules: Once decorated, consume the pavlova within 2-3 hours. The crisp meringue quickly absorbs moisture from cream and fruits, turning soft and losing its signature crunch.
  • Smart Storage Strategy: Store unused meringue base separately from toppings. Wrap the plain meringue carefully in plastic wrap, placing it in a cool, dry spot to prevent moisture absorption. When ready to serve, quickly assemble with fresh cream and fruits for a stunning dessert.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 90 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour and 45 minutes

Calories: 250 kcal

Servings: 7

What Goes In Pavlova Recipe

For Base Ingredients:
  • Egg Whites: The magical foundation of your pavlova, creating a cloud-like meringue with perfect structure and shine.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the meringue, providing a delicate crystalline texture that melts beautifully.
  • Cornstarch: Helps create a soft, marshmallow-like interior while keeping the exterior crisp and elegant.
  • White Vinegar: Adds subtle tanginess and helps stabilize the egg whites for a flawless meringue.
For Topping Ingredients:
  • Heavy Whipping Cream: Provides luxurious, airy richness that perfectly complements the crisp meringue base.
  • Fresh Berries, Mixed Berries: Adds vibrant color, natural sweetness, and a burst of fresh flavor to the dessert.
For Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla Extract: Introduces a warm, aromatic depth that elevates the entire dessert's complexity.
  • Powdered Sugar: Softens the whipped cream and adds a delicate sweetness for a refined finish.

Gear You’ll Use For Pavlova Recipe

  • Electric mixer: Essential for whipping egg whites to stiff, glossy peaks.
  • Large mixing bowl: Preferably metal or glass for best egg white volume.
  • Baking sheet: Sturdy and flat surface for creating pavlova base.
  • Parchment paper: Ensures easy removal and prevents sticking.
  • Spatula: Helps fold ingredients gently and spread meringue evenly.
  • Pencil: Used to draw guide circle on parchment paper.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements for perfect meringue.
  • Cooling rack: Allows pavlova to cool without becoming soggy.

Steps To Make Pavlova Recipe

  • Oven Preparation

Warm up your oven to a low and gentle temperature, creating the perfect environment for a delicate meringue masterpiece.

  • Parchment Paper Layout

Create a circular canvas on a baking sheet by drawing a guide and flipping the parchment to keep your markings hidden, setting the stage for a pristine pavlova.

  • Egg White Transformation

Crack open the eggs and separate the whites with care, whisking them into a glossy, cloud-like mixture that will become the heart of your dessert.

  • Sugar Incorporation

Gradually rain down fine sugar into the fluffy egg whites, transforming them into a silky, glossy meringue that holds peaks like a soft, sweet mountain range.

  • Flavor Essence

Introduce a splash of vanilla and a hint of vinegar, bringing balance and depth to your meringue’s delicate structure.

  • Shaping the Dream

Gently spread the meringue within your drawn circle, creating graceful swirls and peaks that will become crisp and ethereal when baked.

  • Slow Baking

Allow the pavlova to slowly dance in the warm oven, developing a crisp exterior while maintaining a marshmallow-like center.

  • Cooling Moment

After baking, let the pavlova rest and cool completely, its surface transforming into a delicate, crisp shell.

  • Cream and Fruit Finale

Crown your pavlova with billowy whipped cream and a vibrant cascade of fresh seasonal fruits, creating a dessert that’s both elegant and irresistible.

Helpful Pavlova Recipe Tips

  • Whisper-Light Meringue Magic: Ensure egg whites are at room temperature and use a spotlessly clean, grease-free bowl to achieve maximum volume and stability for your pavlova.
  • Whipping Wisdom: Beat egg whites slowly at first, gradually increasing speed, stopping when stiff, glossy peaks form that hold their shape without drooping.
  • Moisture Mastery: Add sugar tablespoon by tablespoon to prevent weeping and create a crisp exterior with a marshmallow-soft interior, avoiding any graininess in the meringue.
  • Dietary Flexibility: Transform this classic dessert into gluten-free and dairy-free paradise by topping with coconut cream instead of traditional whipped cream and choosing plant-based fruit selections like kiwi, passion fruit, or mixed berries.
  • Storage Savvy: Store unfilled pavlova in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, adding toppings just before serving to maintain the perfect crisp-yet-tender texture that makes this dessert a showstopper.
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Dreamy Pavlova Recipe

Dreamy Pavlova Recipe


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4.7 from 30 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
  • Yield: 7 1x

Description

Delightful pavlova merges Australian and New Zealand culinary traditions with a cloud-like meringue dessert. Crisp exterior and marshmallow center showcase fresh seasonal fruits, creating an elegant finale to any celebration.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 cup (200 g / 7 oz) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups (360 ml) fresh fruit (strawberries, raspberries, kiwi, passion fruit, or blueberries)
  • 1 cup (240 ml / 8 fl oz) heavy whipping cream

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper, draw a 7-inch circular template on the reverse side to avoid direct pencil contact.
  2. Meringue Formation: Whip egg whites in a spotless bowl until soft peaks emerge, gradually integrating sugar while continuously beating to achieve a lustrous, voluminous texture.
  3. Mixture Enhancement: Delicately incorporate cornstarch, white vinegar, and vanilla extract into the meringue using gentle folding techniques to preserve its airy composition.
  4. Shaping and Positioning: Carefully spread the meringue onto the prepared parchment paper, crafting a circular disk with elevated edges and a central depression for future toppings.
  5. Baking Process: Place the meringue in a preheated oven, then immediately reduce temperature to its lowest setting, allowing slow baking to develop a crisp exterior while maintaining a marshmallow-like interior.
  6. Cooling Technique: After baking, switch off the oven and allow the pavlova to cool completely within, preventing potential cracking from sudden temperature fluctuations.
  7. Finishing Touches: Delicately transfer the meringue to a serving platter, lavishly top with softly whipped cream and an array of vibrant seasonal fruits, then dust with a gossamer layer of powdered sugar just before presenting.

Notes

  • Avoid Moisture Contamination: Ensure all utensils are completely dry and free from any oil or grease, as even a tiny amount can prevent egg whites from forming stiff peaks.
  • Temperature Control Matters: Use room temperature egg whites for maximum volume and separate them carefully to prevent any yolk contamination, which can hinder proper meringue formation.
  • Gentle Folding Technique: Use a spatula with smooth, deliberate strokes when incorporating cornstarch and vinegar, maintaining the delicate air bubbles that give pavlova its signature light texture.
  • Cooling Strategy: Never rush the cooling process; leaving the pavlova in the turned-off oven prevents sudden temperature changes that can cause immediate cracking or structural collapse.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 90 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Australian/New Zealand

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 7
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 26 g
  • Sodium: 20 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 29 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 60 mg
Marcus Foley

Marcus Foley

Food Critic & Kitchen Coach

Expertise

Recipe Testing and Troubleshooting; Time-Saving Kitchen Hacks; Global Flavor Exploration; Engaging Food Writing and Honest Reviews.

Education

Institute of Culinary Education (ICE), New York, NY

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Hands-on training in foundational techniques, flavor development, recipe creation, and kitchen efficiency, with an emphasis on real-world application and storytelling through food.

Marcus Foley, based in Atlanta, GA, is a friendly food expert who makes cooking fun and simple.

With hands-on training from the Institute of Culinary Education and years of tasting everything from street food to fine dining, he shares easy kitchen hacks, global flavor ideas, and step-by-step recipes that turn kitchen mishaps into delicious surprises.

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