Heart-Shaped Pavlova Recipe
If you’re searching for a show-stopping dessert that feels as special as it tastes, look no further than the Heart-Shaped Pavlova. It’s as airy as a cloud and every bite brings together crisp meringue, pillow-soft whipped cream, and a cascade of fresh berries. This pavlova is the ultimate centerpiece for romantic dinners, Valentine’s Day, or any celebration that could use something stunning and sweet—plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, so almost everyone can indulge.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Meringue:
- 4 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)
Toppings:
- 1 cup mixed fresh berries (such as strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
- Optional: mint leaves for garnish
How to Make Heart-Shaped Pavlova
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start your Heart-Shaped Pavlova adventure by preheating your oven to 250°F. Take a piece of parchment paper and draw a large heart (about 8 inches wide) as your guide. Flip it over so the pencil doesn’t touch your pavlova. This simple step makes it foolproof to create the perfect shape!
Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites
With a clean bowl and mixer at the ready, beat your egg whites on medium-high speed until you see soft peaks. For best results, be sure absolutely no egg yolk sneaks in—this will make all the difference in getting a voluminous, cloudlike meringue.
Step 3: Add Sugar Gradually
Now, add the granulated sugar little by little—about a tablespoon at a time—while beating. Be patient here; rushing can cause graininess. You’ll know you’re ready when the mixture forms stiff, glossy peaks and feels smooth when rubbed between your fingers.
Step 4: Fold in the Flavor and Structure
Gently fold in the cornstarch, white vinegar, and that first half-teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir softly so the meringue doesn’t deflate. This trio ensures your Heart-Shaped Pavlova has the perfect crisp edges and a marshmallowy middle.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
Spoon the meringue onto your prepared parchment, using the heart as your outline. Create a slight well in the center to cradle the cream and berries later. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, then turn off the oven and let the pavlova cool completely inside the closed oven—this step helps avoid cracks.
Step 6: Make Whipped Cream
While the meringue cools, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and the second half-teaspoon of vanilla. Beat until soft peaks form, making sure the cream is thick but still spreadable.
Step 7: Assemble and Decorate
Once your Heart-Shaped Pavlova is fully cool, gently peel it off the parchment. Top with dollops of vanilla whipped cream and arrange a beautiful mix of berries on top. Add a few mint leaves for that refreshing pop of color and flavor, if you’d like.
How to Serve Heart-Shaped Pavlova
Garnishes
Garnishing your pavlova is where the magic happens. A scatter of vibrant berries across the whipped cream delivers both color and flavor, while mint leaves or even edible flowers will make your Heart-Shaped Pavlova look truly artistic. For an extra-special touch, dust with a little powdered sugar just before serving.
Side Dishes
While this pavlova shines on its own, it pairs beautifully with a light dessert wine or even a glass of berry-infused iced tea. For a multi-course finish, follow it up with lemon sorbet or petite glasses of sparkling rosé to keep the mood festive and fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your Heart-Shaped Pavlova unforgettable by serving it on a pretty cake stand, surrounded by more fresh berries or edible flowers cascading onto the plate. For an interactive spin, let guests build their own slices with bowls of extra berries, chocolate shavings, or citrus zest offered alongside.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Heart-Shaped Pavlova (which is rare, believe me!), store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The whipped cream and berries may make the meringue soften over time, so try to enjoy it within a few hours to keep that irresistible crunch.
Freezing
Freezing pavlova isn’t typically recommended, as the crisp meringue tends to absorb moisture and lose its delicate texture on thawing. However, you can make the meringue base in advance, freeze it (unfilled and well-wrapped), and thaw at room temperature before adding cream and fruit.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat pavlova, as it’s best enjoyed at room temperature. If you’ve made the meringue shell ahead, allow it to come to room temp before assembling for that signature shattering bite.
FAQs
Can I make Heart-Shaped Pavlova a day in advance?
You can absolutely make the meringue base a day ahead! Store it in a cool, dry place (not the fridge) in an airtight container. Top with whipped cream and fruit right before serving to prevent sogginess.
What if my meringue cracks?
Don’t worry—a cracked pavlova is still delicious! Simply cover any cracks with cream and berries. In fact, a few cracks add a rustic, homey charm to the Heart-Shaped Pavlova.
Can I use frozen berries?
Fresh berries give the best result in terms of appearance and flavor, but you can use thawed frozen berries in a pinch. Just drain them well to avoid extra moisture on your pavlova.
Is Heart-Shaped Pavlova suitable for special diets?
Yes! Heart-Shaped Pavlova is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making it a welcoming choice for guests with dietary considerations.
Do I need any special tools to make the heart shape?
No special equipment! Just trace a heart on parchment paper (using a cake pan or your own artistic skills) and you’re ready to go—your hands are the best shaping tool.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about sharing a Heart-Shaped Pavlova with people you love. This dessert never fails to impress, and its light, luscious layers are a delightful finish to any special meal. If you haven’t tried it yet, now’s the perfect time to give it a whirl—your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you!
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Heart-Shaped Pavlova Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a romantic dessert with this delightful Heart-Shaped Pavlova. This sweet and airy meringue treat topped with whipped cream and fresh berries is a perfect way to impress your loved ones.
Ingredients
Meringue:
- 4 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)
Toppings:
- 1 cup mixed fresh berries (such as strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
- Optional: mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 250°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and draw a large heart shape (about 8 inches wide) as a guide, then flip the paper over.
- Prepare meringue: Beat the egg whites until soft peaks form, gradually add sugar until stiff peaks form, fold in cornstarch, vinegar, and vanilla. Spoon onto parchment paper following heart outline.
- Bake: Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, then cool in the oven with the door closed.
- Whip cream: Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Assemble: Top pavlova with whipped cream and berries. Garnish with mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Make sure no egg yolk gets into the whites or the meringue won’t whip properly.
- Pavlova is best enjoyed the day it’s made but can be stored in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Australian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 21 g
- Sodium: 30 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
