Name: Heart-Shaped Pavlova
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: New Zealand
Ingredients: 4 large egg whites; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1 tsp white vinegar; 2 tsp cornstarch; Pinch of salt; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)

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This Heart-Shaped Pavlova is a stunning and delicious dessert perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or any celebration that calls for a little extra sweetness. With a crisp, airy meringue base, topped with a luscious layer of whipped cream and fresh berries, this dessert is as beautiful as it is delicious. The pavlova’s light, delicate texture makes it the perfect contrast to the vibrant, juicy berries and rich whipped cream. Whether you’re making it for a romantic evening or impressing guests at a dinner party, this heart-shaped pavlova will surely steal the show.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Heart-Shaped Pavlova is a treat for the eyes as much as it is for the taste buds. The combination of crispy meringue, creamy whipped topping, and fresh, juicy berries creates a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. The heart shape adds a personal touch, making it a perfect dessert for celebrating love or any meaningful occasion. The pavlova is naturally gluten-free and light, which makes it an excellent choice for those looking for a dessert that’s sweet but not overly heavy. The best part? It’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great option for hassle-free entertaining.

Ingredients

For the Pavlova:

Large egg whites
Granulated sugar
Pure vanilla extract
White vinegar
Cornstarch
Pinch of salt

For the Berries and Whipped Cream:

Heavy cream
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)

Variations

Feel free to make this Heart-Shaped Pavlova your own by customizing the topping. You can swap the mixed berries for your favorite fruits, such as kiwi, mango, or peaches, depending on the season. For a more decadent twist, drizzle the pavlova with a bit of chocolate ganache or caramel sauce. If you prefer a lighter, less sweet topping, you can whip the cream with a splash of lemon zest or a little citrus juice for added brightness. Additionally, you can add a sprinkle of toasted nuts, such as pistachios or almonds, for a bit of crunch and flavor contrast.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the oven

Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly draw a heart shape on it using a pencil or pen. Flip the parchment over so that the pencil side is facing down and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the meringue

In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites and pinch of salt on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar, about a tablespoon at a time, until the mixture becomes glossy and stiff peaks form. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Add the cornstarch, vanilla extract, and white vinegar, and mix until just combined.

Step 3: Shape the meringue

Spoon the meringue mixture onto the parchment paper within the heart shape. Use a spatula to smooth the sides and create a slight dip in the center to hold the toppings later. You can build up the edges a little higher to give the pavlova a more pronounced shape.

Step 4: Bake the pavlova

Bake the meringue in the preheated oven for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the pavlova is dry to the touch and easily lifts off the parchment. The exterior should be crisp and slightly golden, with a soft, marshmallow-like center. Turn off the oven and let the pavlova cool completely in the oven with the door slightly ajar.

Step 5: Make the whipped cream

While the pavlova cools, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a chilled bowl using an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, as the cream could turn into butter.

Step 6: Assemble the pavlova

Once the pavlova is completely cooled, carefully lift it off the parchment paper and place it on a serving platter. Spoon the whipped cream into the center and spread it out, leaving a little space around the edges for the berries. Top with the mixed berries.

Step 7: Serve and enjoy

Serve the Heart-Shaped Pavlova immediately after assembly, or refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy the combination of the crisp meringue, creamy topping, and fresh, juicy berries!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Make sure your bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry before whipping the egg whites to ensure the meringue forms properly.
It’s important to bake the pavlova at a low temperature to ensure it dries out evenly without browning too much.
Don’t open the oven door while baking, as this could cause the pavlova to collapse.
If you want to make the pavlova ahead of time, you can bake the meringue and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Just top it with whipped cream and berries before serving.
For a more stable meringue, use superfine sugar instead of granulated sugar, as it dissolves more easily.

How to Serve

This Heart-Shaped Pavlova is perfect for any romantic occasion or celebration. Serve it as a light dessert at a dinner party, or surprise someone special with a personalized pavlova for a sweet gesture. Pair it with a glass of sparkling wine or champagne for an elegant touch. It also makes a fantastic dessert for brunch, where the lightness of the meringue complements fresh fruits and beverages.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pavlova in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. However, be aware that the meringue will lose its crispness the longer it sits. To maintain the texture, it’s best to top it with whipped cream and berries just before serving.

Freezing

While the meringue itself can be frozen, it’s best not to freeze the whipped cream and berries, as they will not maintain their texture after thawing. To freeze the pavlova, wrap the cooled meringue in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. When ready to use, thaw the meringue at room temperature and add the whipped cream and berries.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat pavlova. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature for the best texture.

FAQs

1. Can I make pavlova without vinegar or cornstarch?

The vinegar and cornstarch help stabilize the meringue, so it’s best to use both. However, if you’re in a pinch, you can skip the cornstarch, but the vinegar should be included for the best result.

2. Can I use a store-bought meringue for this recipe?

While store-bought meringue is available, making your own will give you a fresher, better-textured pavlova. The homemade version allows you to customize the sweetness and texture as desired.

3. How can I make the pavlova crispier?

Ensure that you bake the pavlova at a low temperature for a long period. A longer cooling time in the oven also helps to dry it out further.

4. Can I use different fruits instead of berries?

Yes, feel free to use other fruits like kiwi, passion fruit, or peaches. Any fresh fruit will complement the pavlova well.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Pavlova is naturally gluten-free because it’s made from egg whites and sugar, so you don’t need to worry about gluten.

6. How long can I keep the pavlova?

You can store the meringue at room temperature for up to 2 days. However, once the whipped cream and berries are added, it’s best to serve it within a few hours for the best texture.

7. Can I make the pavlova a day ahead?

Yes, you can make the pavlova a day in advance and top it with whipped cream and berries just before serving.

8. Can I make pavlova without vanilla extract?

Vanilla extract adds a lovely flavor, but if you don’t have any, you can omit it or substitute with almond extract for a different flavor.

9. Can I use coconut cream instead of heavy cream?

Yes, coconut cream is a great dairy-free alternative for whipped cream and works wonderfully with the light pavlova.

10. What should I do if my pavlova cracks?

Pavlova can sometimes crack while baking or cooling, but this doesn’t affect the taste! Just top it with whipped cream and berries to cover any cracks, and it will still look beautiful.

Conclusion

This Heart-Shaped Pavlova is an elegant, show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress your loved ones. With its crispy meringue, luscious whipped cream, and fresh berries, it offers a perfect combination of textures and flavors. Whether you’re celebrating love, a special occasion, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this pavlova will be the highlight of any meal. Simple to make and easy to customize, this dessert is bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.