If you've ever wanted to wow your family or guests with a show-stopping dessert, strawberry pavlova is a wonderful place to start.
This classic treat combines a crisp and chewy meringue shell with clouds of whipped cream and sweet, juicy strawberries. It's light, refreshing, and surprisingly easy to make at home!
Whether you're a seasoned baker or just getting started, this step-by-step pavlova recipe is here to guide you.
What Is Strawberry Pavlova?
Picture this: a billowy white nest that's crunchy on the outside and soft in the middle, topped with a mountain of strawberries and a generous scoop of whipped cream. That’s strawberry pavlova in a nutshell!
Named after the famous Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, this dessert is as elegant as a pirouette and as light as a feather.
But you don't need any fancy dance moves to make it. Just a handful of pantry staples, some strawberries, and these hands-on instructions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start whipping up your dessert, let’s gather all the essentials for your pavlova recipe. You’ll need:
- 4 large egg whites (room temperature works best!)
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1 tsp cornstarch (helps create that marshmallowy center)
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 lb fresh strawberries (about 3 cups, sliced)
- Pinch of salt
See? Nothing fancy or expensive here! You might already have most of these ingredients in your kitchen.
How to Make Strawberry Pavlova: Step-by-Step
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Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Tools
Before you dive in, make sure everything is ready:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. You can draw a 7-8 inch circle as a guide for shaping your meringue if you like (just flip the paper over after drawing).
- Wipe your mixing bowl and whisk clear of any grease—egg whites don’t fluff well if there’s any fat around!
Step 2: Make the Meringue
Place your egg whites and a pinch of salt in a clean bowl. Begin beating on medium speed until soft peaks form.
Wondering how to know when you’ve reached “soft peaks”? The mixture should hold its shape for a moment when you lift the whisk, then slump back down.
Now, gradually sprinkle in half the sugar—just a tablespoon at a time—while continuing to beat. Take your time here. This slow addition helps create that glossy, sturdy meringue texture we’re aiming for.
When all the sugar is mixed in, turn up the speed. Beat until the mixture turns thick and glossy, and the sugar feels dissolved when rubbed between your fingers. Don’t rush. Take a moment, like sipping your morning coffee and enjoying the quiet before the day begins.
Add the cornstarch, vinegar, and vanilla. Beat on low just to combine.
Step 3: Shape and Bake Your Pavlova
Spoon the meringue onto your parchment-lined baking sheet, using your circle as a guide. Gently shape it into a disk with slightly higher sides and a shallow well in the center—like creating a little nest for your strawberries.
Slide the pavlova into the oven, then immediately reduce the temperature to 250°F (120°C). Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, until it’s dry to the touch but still pale. Don’t worry if there are small cracks; that’s part of its rustic charm!
When time’s up, turn off the oven and leave the pavlova inside to cool for at least an hour, or even overnight. This step helps avoid sudden temperature changes, which can cause your pavlova to collapse. Think of it as letting bread dough rest—sometimes the magic happens while you wait!
Step 4: Prepare the Strawberries and Whipped Cream
While your pavlova cools, get your toppings ready.
- Hull and slice the strawberries. Toss them with a tablespoon or two of sugar if you want them extra juicy.
- Whip the cream with a tablespoon of sugar and a dash of vanilla until soft peaks form. You want it billowy and light, not stiff.
Sometimes, I like to add a squeeze of lemon or lime to the strawberries for a tangy twist. Feel free to make it your own!
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Now comes the fun part. Gently transfer your cooled meringue to a serving plate. Don’t worry if there are small cracks—nobody minds, and the toppings will cover them right up.
- Spread the whipped cream into the center.
- Pile on those beautiful strawberries. Spoon over any juices, too!
Slice and serve right away. The contrast between the crisp meringue and creamy topping is truly something special.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Pavlova
- Room-temperature eggs whip better—set them out before starting.
- Don’t open the oven during baking; temperature swings can deflate your pavlova.
- Bake on dry days, if possible. Humidity can make pavlova sticky.
- Add other fruits if you like: raspberries, blueberries, or a tropical mix work well.
- Eat soon after assembling—the meringue softens over time.
Still worried about making meringue? Remember, even if things aren’t perfect, pavlova is always a crowd-pleaser. It's a little like making pancakes: the first one might not look perfect, but it still tastes delicious!
Why Pavlova Is the Ultimate Summer Dessert
With its airy texture and fresh fruit, strawberry pavlova shines during the warmer months. It's gluten-free and lighter than traditional cakes or pies. You can even swap in whatever fruit is in season—think peaches, kiwi, or even mango for a tropical spin.
When I first tried making pavlova, I was nervous it would turn out flat or too chewy. But the result was a marshmallowy cloud that melted in my mouth. My friends were amazed (and asked for seconds!).
Common Questions About Strawberry Pavlova
- Can I make pavlova ahead of time? Yes! Bake the meringue a day ahead, cool completely, then store in an airtight container. Add the cream and fruit right before serving.
- What if I don’t have white vinegar? Lemon juice works just as well in a pinch.
- Why did my pavlova crack or collapse? It’s normal! This dessert is meant to look rustic and imperfect. Just cover with cream and fruit.
Try Strawberry Pavlova For Your Next Gathering
If you’re searching for a showy yet simple dessert, you can’t beat strawberry pavlova. With its lovely flavors and stunning looks, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Plus, it’s a great way to use up extra egg whites and seasonal berries.
So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and try making this elegant dessert tonight. Who knows—you might just impress yourself!
Have you ever tried making pavlova? What’s your favorite topping? Let us know in the comments below!
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