Everything You Need to Know About Baking the Iconic Australian Pavlova Cake

The Australian pavlova cake is a dessert with a rich legacy, offering a delightful balance of textures—a crispy outer shell and a soft, marshmallow-like center. Named in honor of the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, it’s believed to have been created during her 1920s tour in Australia or New Zealand, though both countries still debate its origin. With its delicate layers and fresh fruit toppings, pavlova has become an elegant dessert centerpiece for gatherings, especially around festive holidays and summer events.

What you’ll need to make the perfect pavlova

Ingredients:

• 4 large egg whites
• 200 gm caster sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• 250 ml heavy cream
• Fresh fruits for garnish (such as strawberries, kiwi, or passionfruit)

Step-by-step guide to making an australian pavlova cake

Step 1: Prep the oven and beat the egg whites

Preheat your oven to 150°C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites on low speed, gradually increasing to medium-high. Keep beating until you get soft peaks.

Step 2: Gradually add sugar

Add the caster sugar one tablespoon at a time while continuing to beat the mixture until it turns glossy with stiff peaks. Test by rubbing a small amount of mixture between your fingers; it should feel smooth, without any graininess from the sugar.

Step 3: Add in vanilla, vinegar, and cornstarch

Once the mixture is smooth, gently add the vanilla extract, vinegar, and cornstarch. These ingredients are essential for giving the Australian pavlova cake its crispy shell and marshmallow-like interior.

Step 4: Shape the meringue

Spoon the meringue onto the lined baking sheet, creating a circular shape with a slight indentation in the center. This will hold the cream and toppings later.

Step 5: Bake and cool

Place the meringue in the oven, then immediately reduce the temperature to 120°C. Bake for around 1 to 1.5 hours, until it’s dry to the touch and pale in color. Turn off the oven, leaving the meringue inside to cool completely with the door slightly open to prevent cracks.

Step 6: Whip the cream

In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Spoon the whipped cream over the cooled meringue base, making sure to cover the entire surface.

Topping ideas to enhance your Australian pavlova cake

The beauty of the pavlova is its versatility with toppings. Here are a few classic and innovative options:

1. Classic fruit medley

Fresh strawberries, kiwis, and passionfruit are traditional toppings. They add color, tartness, and a refreshing contrast to the sweet meringue.

2. Tropical delight

For a summery twist, top with mango, pineapple, and a sprinkle of coconut shavings. This tropical flavor profile perfectly complements the creamy texture.

3. Decadent chocolate and berry combo

Drizzle melted Cadbury Bourneville dark chocolate over the whipped cream and garnish with raspberries for a richer flavor contrast. Learn more about using dark chocolate in desserts on our website.

4. Lemon curd and fresh mint

For a tangy burst, spoon some lemon curd over the whipped cream and top with fresh mint leaves. The acidity from the lemon pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pavlova.

Tips for the perfect Australian pavlova cake every time

• Avoid overbeating

Overbeating the egg whites can cause the pavlova to collapse or become grainy. Stop as soon as you achieve stiff, glossy peaks.

• Add sugar gradually

Adding sugar too quickly prevents it from fully dissolving, which can cause weeping (a sticky liquid that forms on the surface).

• Experiment with flavors

Try adding a few drops of almond or lemon extract to the meringue for a subtle flavor twist.

Serving and storing the pavlova

The pavlova is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two days without the toppings. Add the whipped cream and fruits just before serving to maintain its texture.

If you like more desserts with that classi vanilla flavor, there are some delicious recipes on our website that you can whip up.