When it comes to impressive desserts that are sure to wow your guests, few options can rival the majestic pavlova. This Australian classic has been a staple of special occasions for decades, and its towering meringue structure, crispy edges, and creamy filling make it a true showstopper.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, a brunch, or just want to treat yourself to something special, these 18 decadent pavlova recipes are sure to impress. From classic lemon curd to innovative flavor combinations like strawberry and cream, passionfruit and mango, and even matcha and white chocolate, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Classic Lemon Curd Pavlova
This show-stopping dessert combines a crispy meringue shell with a tangy and sweet lemon curd filling, perfect for special occasions or impromptu gatherings. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be impressing your friends and family in no time!
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form. Add flour and cream of tartar; mix until combined.
3. Spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet in desired shape.
4. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
5. Meanwhile, make lemon curd: Whisk together softened butter, lemon juice, and salt. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
6. To assemble, spread lemon curd over cooled meringue shell. Serve immediately.
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Strawberry and Cream Pavlova
A classic Australian dessert, pavlova is a show-stopping treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. This strawberry and cream version is a sweet and tangy twist on the traditional recipe.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whip egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Sift flour and salt over the eggs, then fold gently until combined.
4. Spread mixture onto prepared baking sheet, forming a flat circle.
5. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
6. Allow pavlova to cool completely before topping with whipped cream and sliced strawberries.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Passionfruit and Mango Pavlova
Elevate your dessert game with this vibrant and refreshing pavlova, combining the sweetness of mango and passionfruit.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 ripe mangoes, diced
– 1 cup fresh passionfruit pulp
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whip egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Add flour and salt; gently fold until combined.
4. Fold in softened butter until just mixed.
5. Spoon the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading evenly to form a flat disc.
6. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until crisp and dry.
7. Allow pavlova to cool completely on a wire rack.
8. Top with diced mango and passionfruit pulp. Serve with whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Chocolate Raspberry Pavlova
This decadent dessert combines the crunch of a meringue-based pavlova with the richness of dark chocolate and the sweetness of fresh raspberries. Perfect for special occasions or as a surprise treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 8 ounces dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Add cocoa powder and salt; mix until combined.
4. Spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until dry and crisp.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
7. Spread whipped cream on top of cooled pavlova; drizzle with melted chocolate and arrange raspberries.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Blueberry and Lavender Pavlova
This recipe combines the sweetness of blueberries with the subtlety of lavender, creating a unique and delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add sugar and whisk until stiff peaks form.
3. Sift flour over egg mixture and gently fold until combined.
4. Place meringue on prepared baking sheet and smooth out.
5. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
6. Allow meringue to cool completely. Whip heavy cream and spread over cooled meringue.
7. Top with blueberries, lavender buds, and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Pistachio and Rosewater Pavlova
Elevate your dessert game with this exotic pavlova recipe, combining the crunch of pistachios and the subtlety of rosewater.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 2 teaspoons rosewater
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in chopped pistachios and rosewater.
4. Spoon the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming a round shape.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the meringue is dry and crisp.
6. Allow the pavlova to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Coconut and Lime Pavlova
This refreshing pavlova combines the sweetness of coconut with the brightness of lime, perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– Fresh lime zest and toasted coconut flakes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in unsweetened shredded coconut, lime juice, and salt.
4. Spoon the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming a round shape.
5. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until the meringue is crisp and dry.
6. Allow the pavlova to cool completely before topping with whipped cream and garnishing with fresh lime zest and toasted coconut flakes.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Peach Melba Pavlova
This show-stopping dessert combines the classic Australian pavlova with the sweetness of peaches and the creaminess of vanilla ice cream, creating a unique flavor combination that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 ripe peaches, sliced
– 1 cup vanilla ice cream
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form. Add flour, salt, and cream of tartar; beat until just combined.
3. Spread meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until dry and crisp.
4. Allow pavlova to cool completely. Top with sliced peaches and scoop vanilla ice cream alongside.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Black Forest Pavlova
This decadent dessert combines the classic Australian pavlova with the rich flavors of Black Forest cake, featuring chocolate mousse, cherries, and whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chocolate mousse (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup pitted cherries
– Fresh whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in flour and salt. Melted butter should be cooled before adding.
4. Spoon the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until crispy and dry.
6. Allow the pavlova to cool completely on a wire rack.
7. Top with chocolate mousse, cherries, and whipped cream. Garnish with additional whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Eton Mess-Inspired Pavlova
This recipe combines the iconic Australian pavlova with the classic British dessert, Eton mess. By layering meringue, whipped cream, and fresh berries, you’ll create a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together egg whites, sugar, flour, salt, and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.
3. Spoon the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in a flat layer.
4. Bake for 1 hour, then turn off oven and let cool completely.
5. Whip heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
6. Assemble the pavlova by spreading whipped cream on top of cooled meringue, followed by mixed berries.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (plus cooling time)
Banana Caramel Pavlova
This impressive dessert combines the sweetness of caramelized bananas with the lightness of a pavlova, all on top of a crispy meringue base. Perfect for special occasions or as a show-stopping treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– Fresh whipped cream and toasted pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
3. Gradually add sugar, whisking until stiff peaks form.
4. Spread meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet, forming a round shape.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until crispy and dry.
6. Meanwhile, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add bananas and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 10-12 minutes).
7. Assemble pavlova by spreading whipped cream on top of meringue, followed by sliced caramelized bananas.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Matcha and White Chocolate Pavlova
This Japanese-inspired pavlova combines the bright, grassy flavor of matcha with the sweetness of white chocolate and the crunch of toasted almonds. The result is a unique and delicious dessert perfect for warm weather or any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons matcha powder
– 8 ounces white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup toasted almonds
– Fresh berries (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Sift flour and salt over the eggs, then fold gently to combine.
4. Melt butter and matcha powder in a microwave-safe bowl in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Fold melted matcha mixture into the egg mixture until combined.
6. Spoon meringue onto prepared baking sheet and spread into a circle.
7. Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes or until crisp and dry.
8. Melt white chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Spread over cooled pavlova.
9. Sprinkle toasted almonds over the top.
10. Garnish with fresh berries, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Blood Orange and Cardamom Pavlova
This pavlova is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy, with the brightness of blood oranges and the warmth of cardamom. A show-stopping dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) blood orange juice
– 1/4 cup (30g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Fresh blood orange segments, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg whites, cream of tartar, and salt until frothy.
3. Gradually add sugar and whisk until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold in blood orange juice, confectioners’ sugar, and cardamom.
5. Spoon mixture onto prepared baking sheet and shape into a round mound.
6. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until exterior is dry and slightly puffed.
7. Allow to cool completely before serving with fresh blood orange segments.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Pomegranate and Vanilla Bean Pavlova
This show-stopping dessert combines the sweetness of vanilla bean meringue with the tartness of pomegranate seeds, creating a refreshing and visually stunning treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks
– 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff and glossy.
3. Add vanilla extract and salt; mix well.
4. Spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet, forming a 9-inch round shape.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until crisp and dry.
6. Allow meringue to cool completely.
7. Whip heavy cream to stiff peaks and spread over cooled meringue.
8. Top with pomegranate seeds and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Tiramisu-Style Pavlova
Elevate your dessert game with this creative twist on the classic pavlova recipe, infused with the rich flavors of tiramisu. This unique dessert combines the light and airy texture of meringue with the bold and decadent flavors of espresso and mascarpone.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– Fresh berries and whipped cream for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Add cocoa powder and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
4. Spoon the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in a circular motion, creating a rough circle shape.
5. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until dry and crisp.
6. Allow pavlova to cool completely before drizzling with coffee and spreading mascarpone cheese on top.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Raspberry and White Chocolate Pavlova
This Australian-inspired dessert combines sweet and tart flavors with a light and airy texture. Perfect for special occasions or a quick dessert fix!
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together egg whites, sugar, flour, cream of tartar, and salt until stiff peaks form.
3. Spoon the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming a round shape.
4. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
5. Melt white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Arrange fresh raspberries on top of the cooled meringue. Drizzle with melted white chocolate.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Pear and Ginger Pavlova
This pavlova combines the natural sweetness of pears with the spicy warmth of ginger, all on a crispy meringue base. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy evening dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat egg whites until frothy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in flour, salt, and cream of tartar.
4. Spread mixture onto prepared baking sheet and bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
5. Melt butter and spread on cooled meringue base.
6. Top with sliced pears and chopped ginger.
7. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Mixed Berry and Mint Pavlova
A refreshing twist on the classic pavlova dessert, this mixed berry and mint version is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a light treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Whipped cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Sift flour, salt, and cream of tartar over the egg mixture and fold until combined.
4. Spoon the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in a circle.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until dry and crisp.
6. Allow to cool completely.
7. Top with mixed berries and fresh mint leaves.
8. Serve with whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 18 decadent pavlova recipes! From classic lemon curd to innovative combinations like passionfruit and mango, there’s something for every taste. Try pairing strawberries with cream, or chocolate with raspberries. Or go bold with flavors like pistachio and rosewater, coconut and lime, or black forest. These show-stopping desserts are perfect for special occasions or just a weekend treat. Whether you’re a fan of fruity, creamy, nutty, or chocolatey, there’s a pavlova recipe here to satisfy your cravings.
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