Christmas Pavlova (Crispy Outside, Soft & Marshmallowy Inside)

Prep: 20 minutes | Cook: 1 hour | Total: 1 hour 20 minutes (plus cooling) | Serves: 8
Best For: Christmas desserts, summer celebrations, family gatherings

A Classic Christmas Dessert Made for Sharing

Pavlova is a much-loved Christmas dessert, especially during the warmer months. With its light, airy texture and fresh toppings, it’s the perfect finish to a festive meal without feeling too heavy.

This recipe keeps things simple and approachable, using basic pantry ingredients and clear steps so anyone can make a beautiful pavlova at home. It’s a dessert that brings people together, sliced and shared around the table with joy and celebration.

Ingredients for Christmas Pavlova

Pavlova Base

• 4 egg whites, at room temperature

• 1 cup caster sugar

• 1 teaspoon white vinegar

• 1 teaspoon cornflour

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping

• 300 ml thickened cream

• Fresh fruit (strawberries, kiwi fruit, passionfruit, berries)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven
   Preheat oven to 120°C (250°F). Line a baking tray with baking paper.

2. Whip the egg whites
   Using an electric mixer, beat egg whites until soft peaks form.

3. Add the sugar slowly
   Add caster sugar one tablespoon at a time, beating well after each addition until thick and glossy.

4. Fold in remaining ingredients
   Gently fold through vinegar, cornflour, and vanilla until combined.

5. Shape the pavlova
   Spoon the mixture onto the baking tray into a round shape, smoothing the sides and slightly flattening the top.

6. Bake low and slow
   Bake for 1 hour. Turn the oven off and allow the pavlova to cool completely in the oven with the door closed.

7. Decorate and serve
   Top with whipped cream and fresh fruit just before serving.

Helpful Tips

• Make sure the bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry

• Do not open the oven during baking or cooling

• Add toppings just before serving to keep the shell crisp

Why This Recipe Works

• Simple pantry ingredients

• Light and refreshing for summer celebrations

• Make-ahead friendly

• A classic Christmas favourite in Australia

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• Ultimate Easy Christmas Ham

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