Pavlova with red berries

Pavlova with Red Berries

Light, crisp, and beautifully elegant, Pavlova with Red Berries is a show-stopping dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious. With a crisp meringue shell, a soft marshmallow-like center, billowy whipped cream, and a vibrant topping of fresh red berries, pavlova is the perfect balance of sweetness and freshness.

Named after the famous ballerina Anna Pavlova, this dessert is beloved for its airy texture and dramatic presentation. Whether served at celebrations, holidays, or summer gatherings, pavlova never fails to impress.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: ~2½ hours
Serves: 8–10

Why This Dessert Is So Loved

Naturally gluten-free
Light yet indulgent
Perfect balance of sweet and tart
Visually stunning centerpiece dessert
Make-ahead friendly

The contrast between the crunchy exterior and soft interior, paired with tangy berries and cream, makes pavlova unforgettable.

Ingredients

Serves 8–10.

Pavlova Base

4 large egg whites, at room temperature
1 cup caster (superfine) sugar
1 teaspoon cornflour (cornstarch)
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Whipped Cream

1½ cups thickened cream (heavy cream), cold
1–2 tablespoons icing (powdered) sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Red Berry Topping

1 cup strawberries, sliced
½ cup raspberries
½ cup red currants or cherries
½ cup blueberries (optional)

Equipment Needed

Stand mixer or electric hand mixer
Mixing bowl
Baking tray
Baking paper
Spatula

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat oven to 120°C (250°F). Line a baking tray with baking paper and draw a 20 cm (8-inch) circle as a guide. Flip the paper over so the ink doesn’t touch the meringue.

Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites

In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form.

Gradually add the caster sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating well after each addition. Continue beating until the meringue is thick, glossy, and holds stiff peaks.

Rub a little meringue between your fingers—if it feels smooth (not grainy), the sugar is fully dissolved.

Step 3: Add Stabilizers

Gently fold in the cornflour, vinegar, and vanilla extract using a spatula. These ingredients help create the soft, marshmallow center pavlova is known for.

Step 4: Shape the Pavlova

Spoon the meringue onto the prepared baking tray within the circle. Shape into a round, slightly flattened dome, creating a shallow dip in the center to hold the toppings.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes, then turn off the oven and leave the pavlova inside with the door slightly ajar to cool completely. This prevents cracking and collapse.

Do not open the oven during baking.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream and Berries

Whip the cream with icing sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Keep chilled until ready to assemble.

Wash and prepare the berries, patting them dry to prevent excess moisture.

Step 7: Assemble the Pavlova

Just before serving:

Place the cooled pavlova on a serving plate.
Spoon whipped cream generously into the center.
Arrange red berries over the top.
Optional: drizzle with berry coulis or dust lightly with icing sugar.

Tips for Perfect Pavlova

Room temperature egg whites whip better
Use caster sugar so it dissolves fully
Avoid humidity—pavlova loves dry weather
Assemble just before serving to keep the shell crisp

Variations

Berry Coulis Pavlova

Drizzle with a quick sauce made from blended berries and a little sugar.

Chocolate Pavlova

Add shaved dark chocolate over the cream.

Citrus Twist

Add lemon or orange zest to the cream.

Mini Pavlovas

Divide mixture into individual portions and bake for 45–50 minutes.

Storage

Pavlova shell can be made 1–2 days ahead and stored in an airtight container
Assembled pavlova should be eaten immediately
Do not refrigerate the meringue base

Why Pavlova with Red Berries Works

The sweetness of the meringue is perfectly balanced by the tartness of red berries, while the cream adds richness without heaviness. Each bite offers crunch, softness, freshness, and creaminess—a true celebration dessert.

Final Thoughts

Pavlova with Red Berries is a timeless dessert that combines elegance with simplicity. Whether served at a festive gathering or a summer dinner party, it delivers dramatic presentation and unforgettable flavor with minimal effort.

Light, fresh, and beautifully balanced, this dessert is proof that sometimes the simplest ingredients create the most spectacular results.