Elegant Heart-Shaped Pavlova

Name: Elegant Heart-Shaped Pavlova
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 large egg whites; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon white vinegar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Pastry & Sweets Corner

I absolutely adore making this Elegant Heart-Shaped Pavlova for special occasions. The light, airy meringue contrasts wonderfully with the luscious whipped cream and seasonal fruit toppings. Baking meringue can be tricky, but I've perfected my technique over the years, ensuring a crispy shell with a soft, chewy center. This indulgent dessert is sure to impress your loved ones, and it’s surprisingly simple to create. A drizzle of passion fruit or a sprinkle of mint can elevate the presentation even more, making it both a feast for the eyes and the palate!

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:50:27.435Z

When I first attempted this Elegant Heart-Shaped Pavlova, I was amazed at how beautiful it turned out. The key to achieving the perfect meringue lies in ensuring your mixing bowl is completely free of grease. I always wipe it down with a slice of lemon, which makes a world of difference. The delicate heart shape adds a romantic touch that makes it ideal for anniversaries or Valentine's Day.

Another tip I've learned is to let the meringue cool completely in the oven after baking. This gradual cooling process helps achieve that perfect texture, keeping the outside crisp while keeping the inside deliciously marshmallow-like. Adding a medley of berries balances the sweetness with a nice tartness that truly elevates the dish!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The beautiful heart shape adds a romantic touch to any gathering.
Light and airy texture that melts in your mouth.
Perfect balance between sweetness and tartness with fresh fruit.

      

Mastering Meringue Techniques

Creating the perfect meringue for your pavlova is crucial for achieving that sought-after light and airy texture. Start by ensuring your mixing bowl and whisk are completely clean, as any grease can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly. I recommend using a glass or metal bowl rather than plastic, as they tend to hold oil residues more tightly. Whip the egg whites on low speed until they become foamy before increasing to medium-high speed, which helps in building stable peaks. This initial foaming phase usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

As you gradually add the granulated sugar, continue to whip the mixture until it becomes glossy and forms stiff peaks. The sugar not only sweetens the meringue but also stabilizes it, ensuring that your pavlova holds its shape during baking. Keep a close eye on the texture; if you notice the mixture starting to separate or become grainy, it may indicate that the sugar is being added too quickly or that the egg whites weren’t whipped enough prior to addition. Remember, patience is key here!

Topping Variations and Presentation

While mixed berries are an excellent topping choice for your heart-shaped pavlova, don't hesitate to get creative! Seasonal fruits like kiwi, passion fruit, or even citrus segments can add unique flavors and colors to your dessert. If you're looking to ramp up the sweetness, consider drizzling a little honey or maple syrup over the top before serving. For added sophistication, you could even include a layer of lemon curd beneath the whipped cream, which balances the sweetness with a lovely tartness.

When it comes to presentation, a few simple garnishes can elevate your pavlova stunningly. Fresh mint leaves not only add a pop of color but also a refreshing note that complements the dessert's sweetness. Alternatively, a light dusting of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings can enhance the overall flavor profile. Remember to serve your pavlova soon after assembling; the meringue is best enjoyed fresh, as it can become soggy over time from the cream and fruit.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make this show-stopping dessert.

For the Meringue

4 large egg whites
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Topping

1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Once you have gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to start creating your beautiful pavlova!

Instructions

Follow these steps closely for the perfect pavlova.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and draw a large heart shape as a guide.

Make the Meringue

In a clean mixing bowl, whip the egg whites until foamy. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to whip until the mixture forms stiff peaks. Mix in the vanilla extract, vinegar, and cornstarch until fully combined.

Shape the Pavlova

Spoon the meringue onto the prepared parchment, using the heart outline as a guide. Create a slight well in the center for the toppings.

Bake the Pavlova

Bake for 90 minutes, then turn off the oven and let it cool completely inside for about 1 hour.

Prepare the Topping

Whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Pavlova

Carefully transfer the cooled meringue to a serving platter. Fill the center with the whipped cream and top with mixed berries. Garnish with mint leaves if desired.

Enjoy your elegant creation with family and friends!

Pro Tips

Make sure to use room temperature egg whites for the best volume when whipping. Avoid any grease in your mixing bowl to achieve the lightest meringue.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning ahead, you can make the pavlova shell one day in advance. Once the meringue is baked and cooled completely, wrap it loosely in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating the meringue as moisture can lead to a chewy texture instead of the desired crispness. However, it's best to add the toppings just before serving for optimal freshness.

For leftover pavlova, store any unmelted meringue in an airtight container in the same manner as above. Toppings can be stored separately in the fridge. If the pavlova has already been assembled, it’s best enjoyed within a few hours as the whipped cream and fruit will soften the meringue over time.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your pavlova cracks during baking, it may be due to too high of a temperature or rapid changes in the oven environment. Ensure to keep the oven temperature low and avoid opening the oven door while baking. If a crack does occur, don’t worry—it’s often fixable with a layer of whipped cream and fruit that beautifully covers any imperfections.

If your meringue turns out sticky or weepy, it might be a sign that it wasn’t baked long enough or that the humidity was too high during preparation. For next time, consider baking it longer or on a less humid day. Always let your pavlova cool completely in the oven, as this helps prevent unwanted textural changes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make pavlova a day in advance?

It's best to make the meringue the day before and store it in an airtight container. Assemble with toppings on the day you plan to serve.

→ How do I know when the meringue is done?

The meringue should be dry to the touch and easily lift off the parchment paper.

→ What can I use instead of berries for toppings?

You can use a variety of fruits, including kiwi, mango, or peaches, depending on your preference.

→ Is pavlova gluten-free?

Yes, pavlova is naturally gluten-free since it only contains eggs, sugar, and cornstarch.