Name: Pavlova
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Ingredients: 4 large egg whites (room temperature); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp white vinegar; 1 tsp cornstarch; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups mixed fresh fruit

Jump to Recipe

Ever taken a bite of a Pavlova and wondered if you were eating a sweet cloud? This meringue dessert is crispy on the outside, marshmallowy on the inside, and topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. Perfect for summer desserts, it’s a showstopper that’s easier to make than you think (even if your first try looks more like modern art).

What is Pavlova?

A Pavlova cake (or Pavlova dessert) is a delicate meringue-based treat named after a Russian ballerina. It’s light, airy, and slightly chewy inside, with a crisp outer shell. Topped with whipped cream and fresh berries, it’s one of the best dessert ideas for warm weather.

What Does Pavlova Taste Like?

Imagine biting into a crunchy sugar shell that gives way to a soft, melt-in-your-mouth center. The sweetness is balanced by tart fruit and creamy whipped topping, pure heaven for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Prep Time

Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total: 2 hours (plus cooling time)
Servings: 8

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

Calories: 280
Carbs: 45g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 10g

Ingredients

For the Meringue

4 large egg whites (room temperature)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp white vinegar
1 tsp cornstarch
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping

1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups mixed fresh fruit (strawberries, kiwi, blueberries)

How to Make Pavlova

Step 1 – Whip the Egg Whites

Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a clean bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. They should stand straight up when you lift the beaters, no drooping allowed!

Step 2 – Add Sugar & Stabilizers

Gradually add sugar, 1 tbsp at a time, while beating. Keep mixing until glossy and stiff.

Gently fold in vinegar, cornstarch, and vanilla. These keep the Pavlova dessert from collapsing (mostly).

Step 3 – Shape & Bake

Spoon meringue onto the baking sheet, shaping it into a round nest with slightly raised edges.

Bake for 1 hour 30 minutes, then turn off the oven and let it cool inside. (This prevents cracks, or at least minimizes them.)

Step 4 – Add Toppings

Whip cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until fluffy. Pile it on the cooled meringue and top with fresh fruit.

Pro Tips for Perfect Meringue Desserts

No peeking! Keep the oven door closed while baking.
Cracks happen. Smother them in whipped cream, no one will know.
Serve immediately. Leftovers get soggy fast (but let’s be honest, there won’t be any).

Fun Variations

A Cozy Thanksgiving Pavlova

Give your pavlova recipe a festive fall makeover! This version of the classic Pavlova dessert trades summer berries for warm, comforting toppings. Think spiced pumpkin cream, soft caramelized apples, and a fluffy cinnamon whipped cream. It’s a simple way to make your holiday dessert feel extra special!

A Magical Christmas Pavlova

Turn your favorite pavlova recipe into a holiday wonder! This Christmas Pavlova dessert gets dressed up in its festive best with fluffy peppermint whipped cream, rich dark chocolate curls, and cheerful red berries. It’s an easy way to create a dessert that looks as joyful as the season itself.

Now you’re ready to make the perfect Pavlova cake, just don’t blame us when everyone begs for seconds! 🍓✨

Pavlova

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes

A cloud of crisp meringue shatters to reveal a marshmallow-soft heart, piled high with billowy whipped cream and jewel-bright fruits. Each bite melts from sugary crunch to airy sweetness, balanced by tart berries and cool cream – summer’s perfect edible paradox.