Ingredients
Meringue Base



Cream Filling









Fruits and Berries for Decoration
Instructions
Step 1
In a clean mixing bowl, whisk 90 grams of egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add 180 grams of sugar, continuing to whisk until the mixture is shiny and forms stiff peaks.
Gently fold in 1 teaspoon of cornstarch to stabilize your meringue. Shape the meringue into a heart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, creating a slight well in the center for the cream.
Step 2
Preheat your oven to 100°C (212°F). Bake the meringue for about 90 minutes, or until it is dry and can be easily lifted off the parchment without sticking.
Turn off the oven and leave the meringue inside to cool completely to avoid cracking.
Step 3
While the meringue cools, in a mixing bowl, combine 200 milliliters of cream and 100 grams of cream cheese (if using). Whisk until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
Add 1 tablespoon powdered sugar and a pinch of vanilla, and whisk again until combined. Taste and adjust the sweetness if necessary.
Step 4
Once the meringue has cooled, carefully place it on a serving plate. Fill the center with your prepared cream mixture.
Top with assorted fresh fruits and berries to add color and flavor. If desired, drizzle with some fruit puree or your favorite fruit jam for extra sweetness.
Step 5
Slice and serve the heart-shaped Pavlova immediately for the best texture. Enjoy this delightful, airy dessert that impresses with both its beauty and taste!
Servings
Serving this delicious Heart-Shaped Pavlova is just as easy as making it! 🎉
You can enjoy it as a standalone dessert or pair it with a refreshing fruit tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
**For a special touch, consider placing edible flowers on top along with the fruits** for a truly stunning presentation. 🌸
Hosting a picnic? Serve slices of Pavlova in portable containers—your friends will rave about the cute and delicious bites! And don’t forget, it makes a memorable centerpiece for any romantic dinner or gathering—just slice, serve, and watch people fall in love with this sweet masterpiece!
Equipment
A stand mixer is essential for whipping egg whites to the perfect stiff peaks for your meringue. If you don’t have one, a hand mixer can work, but be prepared for more arm work!


Use a sturdy baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent the meringue from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.



An offset spatula is great for spreading the whipped cream smoothly over the Pavlova, ensuring it looks as good as it tastes.



For slicing through the fruits without bruising them, a sharp decorative knife is a must. It helps create beautiful pieces for presentation!
Variations
Gluten-Free & Vegan Variations 🌱
Want to create a gluten-free version? Simply follow the original recipe; meringues are naturally gluten-free! If you're looking to make it vegan, use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) instead of egg whites to achieve that fluffy meringue texture.
**Using coconut cream in place of dairy cream will give you a luscious whipped topping. Don’t forget, the same delicious fruits and flavors will elevate your vegan Pavlova just as much!** 🍓
Faq
- What if my meringue doesn't reach stiff peaks?
If your meringue is not reaching stiff peaks, ensure that the bowl and utensils are completely clean and dry. Any fat or moisture can prevent your egg whites from whipping properly.
- Can I make the Pavlova ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meringue in advance and store it in an airtight container for a couple of days. However, it’s best to assemble the Pavlova just before serving to keep the cream and fruit fresh.
- How can I tell when my meringue is done baking?
Your meringue is done when it is firm to the touch and easily lifts off the parchment paper without sticking. It should have a dry exterior with a slight chewiness inside.
- Can I use any kind of fruit to decorate my Pavlova?
Absolutely! Choose seasonal fruits for the best flavor. Berries, kiwis, and passion fruit are popular choices, but feel free to experiment with your favorites!
- What is the best way to store leftover Pavlova?
Store any leftover Pavlova in the refrigerator, but be aware that the meringue will gradually become less crisp. Enjoy within 1-2 days for the best texture!
- Can I freeze the assembled Pavlova?
It’s not recommended to freeze an assembled Pavlova as the cream and fruit may not thaw well. However, you can freeze unbaked meringue for later use if tightly wrapped.