I’ve always been drawn to desserts that look fancy but are surprisingly simple to make, and Strawberry Pavlova is one of those gems. The crisp meringue shell, soft marshmallow-like center, and fresh strawberries create a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s a dessert that feels special, yet it’s easy enough for a weeknight treat or a weekend celebration. If you’re curious about how to nail this classic, I’ve got some tips that’ll make it foolproof.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Strawberry Pavlova is a perfect blend of crispy meringue and creamy toppings. It’s easy to make and ideal for any occasion.
- Light and airy meringue base with a crispy exterior
- Luscious whipped cream and fresh strawberries for a revitalizing taste
- A visually stunning dessert that’s sure to impress your guests
Recipe
A Strawberry Pavlova is a delightful dessert that combines a crisp meringue base with a creamy topping and fresh strawberries. This elegant treat is perfect for any occasion, offering a balance of sweetness and tartness.
Ingredients:
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until the mixture is glossy and holds its shape.
- Gently fold in the vinegar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract.
- Spoon the meringue onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping it into a circle with a slight indentation in the center.
- Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, then turn off the oven and let the meringue cool completely inside.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream over the cooled meringue and top with sliced strawberries.
Notes:
- Confirm the bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry before whipping the egg whites.
- The meringue can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container.
Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Serving: 6
- Calories: 250 per serving
- Cuisine: Australian
Equipment
To make a perfect Strawberry Pavlova, having the right equipment is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Baking sheet or tray
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Large mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
- Cooling rack
Nutrition
Strawberry Pavlova is a delightful dessert that combines a light meringue base with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. While it’s a treat, it’s important to be mindful of its nutritional content.
- High in sugar due to the meringue and whipped cream.
- Contains moderate calories, primarily from carbohydrates and fats.
- Provides a small amount of protein from egg whites.
- Rich in vitamin C from fresh strawberries.
- Low in fiber and essential nutrients.
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love pairing my strawberry pavlova with a fresh fruit salad, as it adds a burst of color and extra sweetness. Adding a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate makes it even more indulgent, and don’t forget a sprinkle of mint for a revitalizing finish. If I’m feeling fancy, a scoop of ice cream on the side turns it into a dreamy dessert.
Fresh Fruit Salad
A fresh fruit salad is one of my favorite side dishes to pair with Strawberry Pavlova. I love using seasonal fruits like juicy peaches, tangy kiwi, and sweet berries to create vibrant flavor combinations. It’s light, invigorating, and lets the pavlova shine. Plus, it’s so easy to toss together! This pairing feels like a celebration of freedom, letting you mix and match what’s fresh and in season.
Whipped Cream Topping
Nothing elevates a Strawberry Pavlova quite like a fluffy whipped cream topping—it’s the perfect balance of airy sweetness against the crisp meringue. I love experimenting with whipped cream techniques, like chilling the bowl or adding a splash of vanilla for extra flavor. For topping variations, try folding in citrus zest or a hint of cinnamon. It’s your creation, so make it uniquely yours!
Chocolate Drizzle Addition
Topping off a Strawberry Pavlova with a chocolate drizzle can take it from delicious to absolutely irresistible. I love experimenting with chocolate pairings, like dark or milk chocolate, to match my mood. Mastering drizzle techniques is key—I drizzle in a zigzag motion for a playful look or go for controlled lines for elegance. It’s a simple addition that lets me express my creativity while making every bite unforgettable.
Mint Garnish Idea
When I want to add a fresh, vibrant touch to my Strawberry Pavlova, I always reach for mint—it’s like a little burst of coolness that balances the sweetness perfectly. I love experimenting with mint variety, like peppermint or spearmint, to see which complements the dish best. For garnish techniques, I scatter finely chopped leaves or use whole sprigs for an elegant, nature-inspired look. It’s simple, yet it makes all the difference!
Ice Cream Pairing
A scoop of ice cream turns strawberry pavlova from a stunning dessert into pure magic—it’s the perfect partner for crisp meringue, fluffy cream, and juicy berries. My go-to ice cream flavors are vanilla or strawberry for classic vibes, but get playful with lemon or coconut for a twist. For serving suggestions, I let everyone scoop their own, adding freedom to layer flavors or keep it simple. Pure delight!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries?
I know fresh strawberries are ideal, but I’ve used frozen strawberries when I’m out of fresh ones. Just thaw and drain them first, so they don’t make things soggy. They still taste great and save me time.
How Long Does Pavlova Keep Fresh?
I’d say pavlova’s shelf life is about 1-2 days max if stored properly. For freshness tips, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature—refrigeration makes it soggy. Enjoy it while it’s at its best!
Can I Make Pavlova in Advance?
I can make Pavlova in advance, but I’ll keep it in mind that Pavlova preparation requires careful storage. I’ll assemble it just before Pavlova serving to keep it crisp and fresh, giving me flexibility with timing.
What’S the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
I’ve heard that proper leftover storage makes all the difference, and it’s true. I store my dessert in an airtight container at room temp—it keeps the texture perfect. These dessert tips give me freedom to enjoy it later.
Can I Substitute Meringue Powder for Egg Whites?
I often wonder if I can use meringue powder instead of egg whites, especially when I’m out. It’s a great option among meringue alternatives, acting as one of the simplest egg white replacements for my recipes.
