19 Decadent Pavlova Recipes Perfect for Special Occasions

Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy textures and sweet flavors with these 19 decadent pavlova recipes. Perfect for special occasions or just because, these show-stopping desserts are sure to impress your guests. From classic combinations like strawberries and whipped cream to more adventurous pairings like passion fruit and mango, we’ve got you covered.

In this article, we’ll take a journey around the world of pavlovas, exploring unique flavor combinations and techniques that will elevate your dessert game. Whether you’re a fan of fruity and sweet or rich and chocolatey, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, get creative, and let your inner pastry chef shine!

Classic Berry Pavlova with Whipped Cream

Experience the sweet and tangy combination of meringue, whipped cream, and fresh berries with this timeless dessert 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 mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 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, beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Add flour and salt; mix until combined.
4. Spread meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes or until crisp and dry.
6. Allow meringue to cool completely.
7. Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Sweeten with sugar to taste.
8. Arrange mixed berries on top of meringue.
9. Top with whipped cream and dust with confectioners’ sugar.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Lemon Curd and Raspberry Pavlova

Brighten up your dessert table with this tangy-sweet combination of lemon curd and raspberry pavlova. This classic Australian meringue-based dessert gets a burst of citrus flavor from the homemade lemon curd.

Ingredients:

For Lemon Curd:

– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large egg yolks

For Raspberry Pavlova:

– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup (150g) granulated sugar
– 1 cup (120g) fresh raspberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

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 and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Spread meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
5. For lemon curd, combine sugar, lemon juice, and butter in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves.
6. Remove from heat and whisk in egg yolks. Strain into a clean bowl to cool.
7. To assemble pavlova, spread cooled lemon curd on top of meringue, leaving a 1-inch border around edges. Top with fresh raspberries.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Cooking Time: 2 hours (including baking time)

Chocolate Drizzle Pavlova with Fresh Strawberries

Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping pavlova, drizzled with rich chocolate and topped with sweet fresh strawberries.

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
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish

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 and whisk until stiff peaks form.
4. Sift flour and salt over the mixture; fold gently to combine.
5. Spread meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 1 1/2 hours, or until dry and crisp.
7. Allow pavlova to cool completely.
8. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval.
9. Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled pavlova; top with fresh strawberries.
10. Garnish with mint leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (plus cooling time)

Passion Fruit and Mango Pavlova

Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping pavlova, featuring the sweet and tangy combination of passion fruit and mango. This impressive dessert is perfect for special occasions or a unique treat.

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 heavy cream, whipped
– 1 cup passion fruit pulp
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). 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, beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Sift flour and salt over the mixture, folding gently to combine.
4. Mound the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until crisp and dry.
6. Allow the pavlova to cool completely.
7. Top with whipped cream, passion fruit pulp, and mango slices.
8. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve.

Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Pistachio and Rosewater Pavlova

This elegant dessert combines the nutty flavor of pistachios with the delicate sweetness of rosewater, all on a crispy meringue base. Perfect for special occasions or as a unique treat to impress your friends.

Ingredients:

– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon rosewater
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream, for serving

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 sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in chopped pistachios, rosewater, and vanilla extract.
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 crispy and dry.
6. Allow to cool completely before serving with whipped cream.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Eton Mess Inspired Pavlova

A classic Australian dessert gets a twist with the addition of crushed meringue and fresh berries, creating a delightful Eton Mess-inspired pavlova. This sweet treat is perfect for special occasions or as a surprise dessert.

Ingredients:

– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Crushed meringue (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a clean bowl, beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Sift flour and salt over the mixture, folding gently.
4. Spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet, spreading evenly.
5. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
6. Allow meringue to cool completely.
7. Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
8. Assemble pavlova by placing whipped cream on top of cooled meringue, followed by fresh berries and crushed meringue.
9. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Coconut and Pineapple Pavlova

This pavlova recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with the creaminess of coconut, all atop a crispy meringue base. Perfect for warm weather or as a unique dessert option.

Ingredients:

– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 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 mixing bowl, beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in unsweetened shredded coconut.
4. Spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet, shaping into desired form.
5. Bake for 1 1/2 hours, or until crispy.
6. Allow pavlova to cool completely.
7. Whip heavy whipping cream and spread over cooled pavlova.
8. Top with pineapple chunks and garnish with fresh mint leaves.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Blueberry and Lavender Pavlova

Experience the sweet harmony of blueberries and lavender in this unique and delicious pavlova recipe. A perfect blend of textures and flavors, this dessert is sure to impress your guests.

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 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar and whisk until stiff peaks form.
4. Sift flour over egg mixture and fold gently.
5. Pipe onto prepared baking sheet to form a large meringue.
6. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until crisp and dry.
7. Allow to cool completely.
8. Whip heavy cream with softened butter and lavender buds until stiff peaks form.
9. Top cooled meringue with blueberries and whipped cream mixture.
10. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Matcha Green Tea Pavlova with Red Bean

Discover a unique fusion of Japanese flavors and Australian meringue in this delightful dessert. The vibrant green tea flavor, combined with the sweetness of red bean paste and whipped cream, creates a one-of-a-kind treat.

Ingredients:

– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons matcha powder
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1/4 cup red bean paste (Azuki)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form. Add softened butter, matcha powder, and whip until combined.
3. Spread meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until crisp.
4. Allow pavlova to cool completely. Whip heavy cream until stiff. Fold in red bean paste.
5. Assemble by spreading whipped cream on top of cooled pavlova, leaving a small border. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.

Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes (including cooling time)

Spiced Chai Pavlova with Caramelized Apples

This Spiced Chai Pavlova is a unique twist on the classic Australian dessert, infused with the warm and comforting flavors of chai. The caramelized apples add a sweet and crunchy texture that complements the meringue perfectly.

Ingredients:

– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon black tea leaves (or 1 teaspoon chai spice mix)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 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, beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Add flour, salt, cinnamon, cardamom, and tea leaves. Beat until combined.
4. Spread meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Caramelize apples by cooking them in a pan with butter over medium heat until tender and golden brown.
6. Assemble pavlova by spreading whipped cream on top of the meringue, followed by caramelized apples.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve.

Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours

Tiramisu-Inspired Coffee Pavlova

Experience the Italian classic’s creamy, coffee-infused flavors reimagined in a light-as-air Australian pavlova. This unique dessert combines the best of both worlds.

Ingredients:

– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) strong brewed coffee
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks
– 1 cup (120g) mascarpone cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 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 egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Add coffee, vanilla extract, and cocoa powder; gently fold until well combined.
4. Spoon mixture onto prepared baking sheet in a round shape.
5. Bake for 1 hour 30 minutes or until crispy on the outside and dry.
6. Allow to cool completely. Split pavlova in half horizontally using a serrated knife.
7. Spread whipped cream over bottom half, then top with mascarpone cheese mixture.
8. Place top half of pavlova on top; dust with confectioners’ sugar.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Peach and Basil Pavlova

This summer-inspired pavlova combines the sweetness of peaches with the freshness of basil, creating a unique dessert that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings.

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 ripe peach, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 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 frothy.
3. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold in flour and salt until well combined.
5. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until dry and crisp.
7. Allow pavlova to cool completely.
8. Top with softened butter, diced peach, and chopped basil.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Black Forest Pavlova with Cherries

Elevate the classic pavlova recipe by incorporating the rich flavors of Black Forest cake, cherries, and whipped cream. This show-stopping dessert is perfect for special occasions or a decadent treat any time of the year.

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
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted
– 1/4 cup cherry preserves
– 1/4 cup shaved dark chocolate or chocolate shavings

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 flour and salt; fold gently until combined.
4. Spread mixture onto prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crispy.
6. Allow pavlova to cool completely.
7. Whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.
8. Arrange cherries and preserves on top of pavlova, leaving a border.
9. Top with whipped cream and shaved dark chocolate.
10. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Salted Caramel and Banana Pavlova

Salted Caramel and Banana Pavlova: A Sweet and Salty Treat

This recipe combines the classic Australian dessert with a twist of salted caramel and fresh banana, creating a delightful flavor combination that will impress your guests.

Ingredients:

– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream, whipped
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup (60g) salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
3. Gradually add sugar and salt, beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Spread meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until crisp and dry.
6. Allow pavlova to cool completely on a wire rack.
7. Whip heavy cream until stiff. Spread over cooled pavlova.
8. Arrange sliced bananas and drizzle with salted caramel sauce.
9. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.

Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Fig and Honey Pavlova with Goat Cheese

This recipe combines the natural sweetness of figs and honey with the tanginess of goat cheese, all atop a crispy meringue base. The result is a unique and delicious dessert perfect for a special 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
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup fig jam
– 1/4 cup honey
– 8 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
– Fresh figs, sliced

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 cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Sift flour over egg mixture and fold gently.
5. Spread meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until crispy.
7. Allow meringue to cool completely.
8. Top with fig jam, honey, goat cheese, and sliced figs.

Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Blood Orange and Pomegranate Pavlova

This Australian-inspired meringue-based dessert gets a vibrant twist with the addition of blood orange juice and pomegranate seeds. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors, along with the crunchy texture from the meringue, makes for a truly unique and impressive dessert.

Ingredients:

– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup blood orange juice
– 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
– Whipped cream, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold in flour.
5. Spread meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Drizzle blood orange juice over the meringue, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
7. Top with pomegranate seeds.
8. Bake for 1 1/2 hours, or until crisp and dry.
9. Serve with whipped cream, if desired.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Raspberry and White Chocolate Pavlova

Raspberry and White Chocolate Pavlova Recipe

Experience the perfect blend of sweet and tart with this refreshing Raspberry and White Chocolate Pavlova recipe. This classic Australian dessert is a crowd-pleaser, and the addition of fresh raspberries and white chocolate takes it to a whole new level.

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
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in flour and softened butter until well combined.
4. Spoon the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape into a flat circle.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the meringue is dry and crisp.
6. Allow the pavlova to cool completely before topping with fresh raspberries and white chocolate chips.

Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Pear and Ginger Pavlova

This Australian classic gets a delightful twist with the sweetness of pears and the warmth of ginger. A perfect dessert for any occasion, this pavlova is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– Whipped cream (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 cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Melt butter in microwave-safe bowl for 10-15 seconds or until melted. Fold into meringue mixture.
5. Spread meringue onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Arrange pear slices on top of meringue, leaving a 1-inch border.
7. Sprinkle grated ginger over pears.
8. Bake for 2 hours or until meringue is dry and crisp.
9. Allow pavlova to cool completely before serving. Top with whipped cream, if desired.

Cooking Time: 2 hours

Vanilla Bean Pavlova with Mixed Berries

Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping Vanilla Bean Pavlova, topped with a colorful medley of mixed berries. This Australian classic is sure to impress your friends and family.

Ingredients:

– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened

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.
3. Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract, beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Sift flour over the meringue mixture and gently fold until combined.
5. Spoon the meringue onto the prepared baking sheet and shape into a round disk.
6. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
7. Allow to cool completely before topping with mixed berries and whipped cream (optional).
8. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Summary

Get ready to elevate your dessert game with these 19 decadent pavlova recipes perfect for special occasions! From classic berry and whipped cream to innovative combinations like passion fruit and mango, pistachio and rosewater, and matcha green tea with red bean, there’s something for every taste. Each recipe is a masterclass in texture and flavor, featuring tender meringue, sweet toppings, and creative twists. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or holiday, these pavlova recipes are sure to impress your guests and satisfy their sweet tooth.