If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a celebration in every bite, then the Easy Pavlova with Mango & Passion Fruit Recipe is your new best friend. This stunningly light and airy pavlova base topped with luscious whipped cream, sweet mango slices, and the zesty tang of passion fruit is an absolute showstopper. It’s a delightful combination of crunchy, fluffy, creamy, and fruity flavors that never fail to impress guests or brighten up any occasion. Whether it’s a sunny brunch or a festive gathering, this Easy Pavlova with Mango & Passion Fruit Recipe brings sunshine to your table in the most delicious way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is a wonderful example of how a few simple, quality ingredients come together to create something truly magical. Each component plays its own role in delivering the perfect balance of texture, sweetness, and freshness.
- 150 ml egg whites (about 4 large, at room temperature): The heart of your pavlova, whipped to fluffy perfection, creating that crisp outer shell and soft marshmallow center.
- 1 cup caster sugar (215 grams): Provides the necessary sweetness and helps stabilize the meringue for that delicate crunch.
- 1 tablespoon cornflour: Adds lightness and helps keep the inside of the pavlova soft and chewy.
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar or cream of tartar or lemon juice: These acidifiers stabilize the egg whites and enhance the texture.
- 450 ml heavy cream: Whipping cream is key for that rich, fluffy topping that complements the crisp pavlova base.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste: Infuses the cream with a warm, sweet aroma that lifts the entire dessert.
- 2-3 tablespoons icing sugar: Sweetens the cream gently without overpowering the tropical toppings.
- 2 fresh mangoes, sliced: Juicy and fragrant mango adds vibrant color and tropical sweetness.
- Passion fruit pulp: The tart and aromatic passion fruit provides a lively contrast to the creamy and sweet layers.
- Lime zest (optional): Adds a subtle zing that enhances the tropical flavors beautifully.
How to Make Easy Pavlova with Mango & Passion Fruit Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meringue Base
Begin by ensuring your egg whites are completely free of any yolk or grease, as this is critical for achieving stiff peaks. Whisk the egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form, then gradually add caster sugar one tablespoon at a time while continuing to whisk. This slow incorporation is essential for a glossy, stable meringue. Once all sugar is added and dissolved, gently fold in the cornflour and vinegar (or your chosen acid). Shape the meringue on a baking tray lined with parchment paper into a lovely round, creating a slight well in the center to hold your toppings after baking.
Step 2: Bake the Pavlova
Place your meringue in a preheated oven at 120°C (250°F) and bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The pavlova should come out crisp on the outside with a pale, ivory-colored crust. Once baked, turn off the oven and let the pavlova cool completely inside with the door slightly ajar—this step prevents cracking and helps it set beautifully.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
While the pavlova cools, whip your heavy cream with the vanilla bean paste and icing sugar until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip — you want the cream to be light and airy so it complements the crunchy meringue without weighing it down.
Step 4: Assemble with Mango & Passion Fruit
Once cooled, transfer your pavlova to a serving plate and dollop the whipped cream generously over the top. Artfully arrange your fresh mango slices atop the cream, then drizzle with the vibrant passion fruit pulp. A sprinkle of lime zest adds that perfect finishing touch, elevating the tropical flavor profile.
How to Serve Easy Pavlova with Mango & Passion Fruit Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes like fresh mint leaves or extra passion fruit seeds can add a burst of color and a refreshing edge. These little details make your dessert feel extra special and inviting, enhancing both appearance and taste.
Side Dishes
This Easy Pavlova with Mango & Passion Fruit Recipe pairs wonderfully with a light, fruity cocktail or a refreshing herbal tea. For a more substantial dessert experience, serve alongside a crisp green salad with citrus dressing, which balances the sweetness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual pavlova nests for a charming touch or layering the whipped cream and fruit in clear glasses for a deconstructed pavlova parfait. Another fun idea is incorporating edible flowers, lending a whimsical and elegant flair to your presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover pavlova stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. The meringue tends to soften once topped with cream and fruit, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Freezing
You can freeze the meringue base separately in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Thaw at room temperature before adding cream and toppings for a quick and convenient dessert any time.
Reheating
Pavlova isn’t made for reheating since its texture is best enjoyed fresh and crisp. Instead, prepare smaller portions to avoid leftovers or freeze the base to enjoy crisp pavlova whenever the craving strikes.
FAQs
Can I use regular sugar instead of caster sugar?
Caster sugar dissolves more easily in the egg whites, ensuring a smooth meringue. Regular granulated sugar can work but might not produce as glossy or stable a result.
What if I don’t have cream of tartar or vinegar?
Lemon juice is a fabulous natural alternative to stabilize your egg whites and help achieve the perfect pavlova texture.
How ripe should the mangoes be?
Use ripe but firm mangoes to add sweetness without turning mushy when sliced. They should have a vibrant color and a fragrant aroma.
Can I make this pavlova dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can swap the heavy cream for coconut cream, whipped until fluffy, which pairs deliciously with mango and passion fruit.
Why does my pavlova crack sometimes?
Cracking can happen if the oven temperature is too high or if you cool it too quickly. Leaving the pavlova to cool gradually inside the oven with the door slightly open helps prevent cracks.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, this Easy Pavlova with Mango & Passion Fruit Recipe is one dessert you’ll want to make over and over. It’s effortless yet elegant, refreshing yet indulgent, and perfect for brightening up any meal or celebration. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes your favorite centerpiece dessert!
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Easy Pavlova with Mango & Passion Fruit Recipe
This Easy Pavlova with Mango & Passion Fruit is a light and airy dessert featuring a crisp meringue base topped with whipped cream and tropical fruits. The pavlova boasts a delicate, crisp shell with a soft marshmallow center, complemented perfectly by the creamy texture of whipped cream and the vibrant flavors of fresh mango and tangy passion fruit. Ideal for summer gatherings or any time you want a show-stopping yet simple dessert.
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients
Meringue
- 150 ml egg whites (approximately 4 large egg whites), at room temperature
- 1 cup caster sugar (215 grams, superfine sugar)
- 1 tablespoon cornflour
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar or cream of tartar or lemon juice
Decoration
- 450 ml heavy cream (thickened cream, suitable for whipping)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- 2–3 tablespoons icing sugar
- 2 fresh mangoes, sliced
- Passion fruit pulp (to taste/extras for decoration)
- 1 lime (zest, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meringue: Preheat your oven to 120°C (250°F). In a clean, dry bowl, whisk the egg whites at medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add the caster sugar one tablespoon at a time, increasing to high speed until the mixture is glossy and stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the cornflour and vinegar or cream of tartar, being careful not to deflate the meringue.
- Shape the Meringue: Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Spoon the meringue onto the tray and shape it into a circle, building slightly higher edges to hold the toppings later. Create a slight hollow in the center for the cream and fruit.
- Bake the Meringue: Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 to 1.5 hours until the meringue is crisp to the touch and pale. Turn off the oven and leave the meringue inside to cool completely. This helps to prevent cracks and keeps the meringue dry and crisp.
- Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, combine the heavy cream, vanilla bean paste, and icing sugar. Whip until soft peaks form, being careful not to overbeat to avoid turning it into butter.
- Assemble the Pavlova: Carefully transfer the cooled meringue base to a serving plate. Spoon and spread the whipped cream into the center. Arrange the sliced mangoes on top and drizzle with passion fruit pulp. Optionally, sprinkle with lime zest for an added refreshing zing.
- Serve: Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of textures between the crisp meringue and creamy topping with fresh fruit.
Notes
- Using room temperature egg whites helps achieve maximum volume in the meringue.
- Allow the meringue to cool gradually in the oven to minimize cracking.
- Caster sugar or superfine sugar dissolves better, yielding a smoother meringue.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute cream with coconut cream and adjust sweetness accordingly.
- The pavlova is best served fresh on the day it is made, as the meringue can soften over time from the moisture in the cream and fruit.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Australian/New Zealand
- Diet: Gluten Free
