A pavlova lives or dies on the meringue: it must be crisp outside and soft as marshmallow within. Whip the whites to stiff glossy peaks and bake low and slow, then cool it in the turned-off oven so it does not crack or weep.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep20 min
Cook1 hr 15 min
Makes1 large pavlova
CuisineAustralian
Cost$$
VegetarianGluten-free
Contains dairy · eggs
Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy, and a flax or aquafaba egg for the egg.
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for1large pavlova
Egg whites
Six room-temperature whites whip to the biggest, most stable volume.
Whip the whitesBeat whites with cream of tartar to soft peaks, then add sugar a spoon at a time and whip to stiff glossy peaks that hold when you lift the beater.
Fold in cornstarchSift in the cornstarch and a splash of vinegar and fold gently to keep the volume.
ShapeMound the meringue into an 8-inch disk on parchment, building the sides higher than the center to hold the topping.
Bake lowBake at 250F for 75 min until the shell is dry and lifts cleanly, then turn off the oven and cool it inside with the door ajar.
TopJust before serving, pile on whipped cream and the fresh fruit so the shell stays crisp.
Yes — this is exactly what an air fryer does well. Work in a single layer so the air can move, and shake or flip halfway for even crisping. It runs a touch faster than the oven, so check early.
Can you freeze Pavlova? — Not ideal
Not really — the cream, custard, or emulsion turns grainy or splits once thawed. This one is best kept fresh in the fridge.
Can you make Pavlova ahead of time? — Prep ahead
Best fried to order — the crunch fades if it sits. Do the breading or shaping ahead and cook it fresh when you serve.
Is Pavlova gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Pavlova vegan? — Vegetarian, not vegan
It’s vegetarian but not vegan as written — it has dairy and egg. Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy, and a flax or aquafaba egg for the egg.
Community Notes
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