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Light and Fluffy Strawberry Rose Pavlova Recipe Perfect for Summer Desserts

strawberry rose pavlova - featured image

A light and airy pavlova featuring a crisp meringue base infused with rosewater, topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries and mixed berries. Perfect for summer gatherings and easy to make with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar, superfine if possible
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon rosewater (optional but recommended)
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream, chilled
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1 cup mixed fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
  • Fresh mint leaves, a few sprigs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and draw a 7-inch (18 cm) circle to guide your pavlova shape.
  2. In a clean bowl, start whipping the egg whites on medium speed until frothy, then gradually increase to high speed. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Slowly add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, whipping continuously. This process takes around 8-10 minutes until the meringue is glossy and stable.
  4. Once all sugar is incorporated, gently fold in the cornstarch, white vinegar, and rosewater with a spatula. The meringue should hold stiff, shiny peaks and feel thick but light.
  5. Spoon the meringue onto the parchment paper using the circle as a guide. Shape it into a round with slightly higher edges and a shallow center to hold the cream and berries later.
  6. Bake for 55 minutes. The outside will be crisp and pale with a slight ivory hue. Turn off the oven and leave the pavlova inside to cool completely, about 1 hour, to prevent cracks.
  7. While the pavlova cools, whip the cold heavy cream with powdered sugar until it holds soft peaks, about 3-4 minutes. Keep chilled until ready to assemble.
  8. Just before serving, spread the whipped cream gently over the pavlova base. Top with sliced strawberries and mixed fresh berries. Garnish with mint leaves if desired.

Notes

Use room temperature egg whites for best volume. Add sugar gradually to avoid gritty texture. Vinegar and cornstarch stabilize the meringue and create a marshmallow-like center. Cool pavlova slowly in the turned-off oven to prevent cracks. Whip cream just before serving to keep it fresh and fluffy. Fresh berries are preferred for texture; if using frozen, thaw and drain well.

Nutrition

Keywords: pavlova, strawberry pavlova, rosewater dessert, summer dessert, meringue, fresh berries, light dessert, fluffy pavlova