Description

This delightful Vanilla Pavlova with Pineapple & Passion Fruit is a light, airy dessert featuring crisp meringue nests topped with a creamy vanilla-scented crème fraîche and vibrant tropical fruits. The combination of crunchy exterior and soft middle of the meringue paired with tangy passion fruit and sweet pineapple makes for a refreshing and elegant treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Meringue

3 egg whites
115g caster sugar
2 tsp cornflour
1 tsp lemon juice

Crème Fraîche Topping

200g crème fraîche
25g icing sugar
¼ tsp vanilla extract

Fruit Topping

200g pineapple, chopped into small chunks
2 passion fruit, seeds scooped out
Mint leaves, shredded (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Heat the oven to 130°C (110°C fan)/gas mark 1. Line a baking sheet with baking parchment. Draw four circles, 8-10cm in diameter, on the parchment and then flip it over so the pencil marks are on the reverse side.
Make the Meringue: In a large bowl, whisk the egg whites using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Gradually whisk in the caster sugar until the mixture becomes thick, glossy, and smooth. Then gently fold in the cornflour and lemon juice to stabilize the meringue.
Shape and Bake Meringues: Spoon the meringue mixture into four large swirls on the prepared baking parchment circles, creating a small dip in the center of each for the topping. Bake on the lowest oven shelf for 55 minutes to 1 hour until the outside is crisp and dry underneath.
Cool the Meringues: Turn the oven off and leave the door slightly open. Allow the meringues to cool completely inside the oven — this helps prevent cracking. The meringues can be prepared up to a day ahead and stored in an airtight container.
Prepare the Crème Fraîche Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the crème fraîche, icing sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is thick and pillowy.
Prepare the Fruit: Combine the chopped pineapple and passion fruit seeds in a separate bowl, mixing gently to blend the flavors.
Assemble the Pavlova: Spoon a quarter of the crème fraîche mixture onto the center of each meringue. Top with a generous portion of the pineapple and passion fruit mixture, drizzle with any remaining passion fruit juice, and garnish with shredded mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

Ensure egg whites are free from any yolk or fat to achieve the best meringue volume.
Using lemon juice helps stabilize the meringue and adds a subtle tartness balancing the sweetness.
To prevent cracking, allow meringues to cool in a turned-off oven with the door slightly open.
This recipe can be made a day ahead; store meringues in an airtight container and add toppings just before serving.
Mint leaves are optional but add a fresh, aromatic touch to the final presentation.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: International

Keywords: Vanilla pavlova, pineapple, passion fruit, meringue, crème fraîche dessert, summer dessert, tropical fruit pavlova, easy pavlova recipe