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Light and Fluffy Mini Pavlovas

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These light and fluffy mini pavlovas feature crisp, delicate meringue shells with a marshmallow-soft center, topped with fresh berries for a perfect, elegant dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Egg whites from 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups (225 g) mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream, whipped (optional; use coconut cream for dairy-free)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Separate the egg whites from the yolks carefully, ensuring no yolk gets into the whites. Let the egg whites come to room temperature (about 20 minutes).
  3. Begin whipping the egg whites in a large, clean bowl with an electric mixer on medium speed. Once foaming, gradually add the granulated sugar one tablespoon at a time.
  4. Continue whipping until stiff, glossy peaks form (7-10 minutes).
  5. Gently fold in the cornstarch, white vinegar, and vanilla extract using a spatula, being careful not to deflate the meringue.
  6. Shape the mini pavlovas by spooning or piping small rounds (2-3 inches diameter) onto the prepared baking sheet, creating a small well in the center.
  7. Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes until dry and crisp outside but slightly soft inside.
  8. Turn off the oven and leave the pavlovas inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to cool completely and dry out.
  9. Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form (if using). Dollop or pipe the cream onto the pavlovas, then top with fresh berries.
  10. Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.

Notes

Use organic eggs for best texture and flavor. Use firm, ripe berries to avoid sogginess. Frozen berries can be used if thawed and drained well. Add lemon zest or honey over berries for a twist. Use caster sugar for a smoother meringue. Avoid opening oven door during baking. Let pavlovas cool slowly in oven with door ajar to prevent cracking. Add whipped cream and berries just before serving to keep pavlovas crisp.

Nutrition

Keywords: mini pavlovas, meringue dessert, berry dessert, light dessert, fluffy pavlova, easy pavlova recipe, gluten-free dessert, dairy-free option