Festive Citrus Pavlova with Berries

Name: Festive Citrus Pavlova with Berries
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 white vinegar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; Zest of 1 orange; 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); Mint leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Dessert Recipe Collection

Delight in the airy sweetness of a classic pavlova, brightened with zesty citrus and topped with fresh, juicy berries.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-12T18:34:16.293Z

This festive pavlova is a show-stopping dessert that combines the elegance of meringue with the freshness of citrus fruits and berries. Perfect for holiday gatherings, its light and crispy texture will leave your guests coming back for more!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A stunning centerpiece for any celebration
Light and airy texture that contrasts beautifully with rich toppings
Versatile with seasonal fruits and flavors

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Pavlova is a dessert that truly shines at celebrations, from birthdays to holiday gatherings. Its elegant presentation, with a crisp exterior and soft, marshmallow-like center, makes it an impressive addition to any table. The vibrant colors of fresh berries and citrus zest create a feast for the eyes, ensuring that your guests will be captivated even before the first bite.

What makes this citrus pavlova even more special is its versatility. You can easily adapt the toppings based on the season, allowing you to incorporate the freshest ingredients available. Whether you choose summer berries or autumn fruits, this dessert can be tailored to fit any occasion, making it a favorite among dessert lovers.

Understanding the Art of Pavlova

Creating a perfect pavlova requires a little finesse, but the results are well worth the effort. The key to achieving that characteristic light and airy texture lies in the whipping of the egg whites. Be sure your mixing bowl is free of any grease, as even a small amount can prevent the egg whites from reaching their full volume.

When adding sugar, it’s important to do so gradually. This allows the sugar to dissolve properly, resulting in a meringue that holds its shape beautifully. Remember to be gentle when folding in the vinegar and cornstarch; over-mixing can deflate the delicate structure you’ve worked so hard to create.

Storing and Serving Tips

Ingredients

For the Pavlova

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

For the Topping

1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Zest of 1 orange
1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Mint leaves for garnish

Enjoy creating this beautiful dessert!

Instructions

Prepare the Pavlova

Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and draw an 8-inch circle as a guide.

Whip Egg Whites

In a clean bowl, whip egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.

Add Vinegar and Cornstarch

Gently fold in the vinegar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract until just combined. Be careful not to deflate the mixture.

Shape the Pavlova

Transfer the meringue mixture to the prepared parchment paper, using a spatula to shape it into a round disc, with a slight dip in the center.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 90 minutes, then turn off the oven and let the pavlova cool completely inside.

Prepare the Topping

In a bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the orange zest.

Assemble the Pavlova

Once the pavlova is cool, top it with the whipped cream and scatter the mixed berries on top. Garnish with mint leaves.

Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Expert Tips for the Best Results

To ensure your pavlova turns out perfectly, consider using room temperature egg whites. They whip up better and achieve a greater volume compared to cold egg whites. Additionally, use a stand mixer or a hand mixer for more consistent results. This allows you to maintain the necessary speed and control while achieving those stiff peaks.

If you're worried about cracks in the pavlova, don't fret! A small crack is normal and adds to the rustic charm of this dessert. However, if you want a smoother finish, you can gently lower the oven temperature in the last few minutes of baking to help it set without browning too much.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair your festive citrus pavlova with a glass of sparkling wine or a light dessert wine for an elevated experience. The bubbly texture of sparkling wines complements the lightness of the pavlova, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the dessert.

For a non-alcoholic option, consider serving the pavlova with a refreshing citrus-infused lemonade or a herbal iced tea. These beverages will harmonize beautifully with the zesty flavors of the pavlova, creating a delightful balance that will impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make pavlova ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pavlova a day in advance and store it in an airtight container.

→ What fruits can I use for topping?

You can use any seasonal berries or citrus fruits like kiwi and pomegranate.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the pavlova in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

→ Why did my pavlova crack?

Cracking can occur due to rapid temperature changes. Avoid opening the oven door while baking.