Mini Pavlova Hearts with Cream

Name: Mini Pavlova Hearts with Cream
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 large egg whites; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon white vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries) for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making Mini Pavlova Hearts with Cream, not only because they are incredibly delicious, but also because they always impress my guests. The delicate meringue crust paired with whipped cream and fresh fruit creates a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Each heart-shaped treat is a little work of art that can brighten anyone's day, making them perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat after dinner. Trust me, once you try making these, you'll want to whip them up again and again!

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:07:17.743Z

When I first attempted to make Mini Pavlova Hearts, I was surprised at how simple yet impactful they are. Using cornstarch and vinegar in the meringue adds that perfect crispness while keeping the inside soft and chewy. I experimented with different fruits and found that a mix of berries works wonders for both flavor and presentation.

One important tip I learned is to let the meringues cool completely in the oven after baking. This prevents cracks and helps achieve that perfect texture. Once topped with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh strawberries, these mini desserts become irresistible!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Light and airy meringue with a chewy inside
Customizable toppings to suit your taste
A stunning presentation that impresses everyone

      

The Art of Meringue

Creating the perfect meringue is all about achieving the right texture. Be sure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry, as even a trace of grease can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly. I recommend using room temperature egg whites, which whip up better than cold ones. Pay attention to visual cues: look for soft peaks before gradually incorporating the sugar, transforming your mixture into glossy, stiff peaks that hold their shape beautifully.

Cornstarch and vinegar serve important roles in stabilizing the meringue. Cornstarch absorbs moisture, which helps prevent weeping from the meringues, keeping them crisp. White vinegar enhances the structure by stabilizing the proteins in egg whites, yielding a more durable meringue. Don’t skip these key ingredients—they greatly influence the final texture and longevity of your delicate hearts.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to toppings, feel free to get creative! While I love fresh berries for their tartness and vibrant colors, you can experiment with other fruits like kiwi or mango. Consider drizzling a homemade raspberry coulis or chocolate sauce for extra flair. For added crunch, a sprinkle of toasted nuts or crushed meringue can provide a delightful texture contrast to the smooth whipped cream.

If you’d like to prepare these pavlovas in advance, they can be made up to two days ahead. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve their crispness. Add whipped cream and fruit toppings just before serving to maintain their fresh appearance and texture. This makes them a great option for busy occasions or unexpected guests!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before starting:

For the Meringue:

4 large egg whites
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries) for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start making the pavlovas.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Mini Pavlova Hearts:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Make the Meringue

In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites using an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, beating until the mixture is glossy and stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the cornstarch, vinegar, and vanilla extract until combined.

Shape the Hearts

Transfer the meringue into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe heart shapes onto the prepared baking sheet. Make a slight indentation in the center of each heart.

Bake

Bake the meringues in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until they are dry to the touch. Turn off the oven and let them cool completely inside.

Prepare the Topping

While the meringues cool, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Pavlovas

Once the meringues are cooled, gently top each with whipped cream and garnish with fresh berries before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Mini Pavlova Hearts!

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, try flavored whipped cream by adding a splash of vanilla or a fruit puree.

Common Pitfalls and Fixes

One common issue when making meringue is humidity. If it’s a damp day, the moisture in the air can prevent your meringues from drying correctly, leading to a chewy texture instead of the desired crispness. To combat this, try using a dehydrator or bake them in the oven for a longer time at a lower temperature, ensuring they're thoroughly dried out before serving.

Another problem can arise from under-mixing the egg whites. If you don’t beat them until they reach stiff peaks, the meringue might collapse while baking. The mixture should be glossy and form peaks that stand upright without drooping. If you’re unsure, continue beating for an extra minute or two—it’s better to overbeat slightly than to risk underbeating.

Flavor Variations

You can infuse your meringue with different flavors to personalize these pavlovas. Try adding a teaspoon of almond extract, citrus zest, or even cocoa powder to the mixture before baking for a unique twist. When creating flavored versions, consider pairing them with complementary toppings like chocolate ganache or citrus fruits for a balance of flavors.

For a holiday twist, consider incorporating spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg into your whipped cream. Just a pinch can elevate the cream to match seasonal vibes, making these pavlovas perfect for festive gatherings. A touch of peppermint extract in the whipped cream during winter months provides a refreshing holiday flavor that gives a delightful surprise.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the meringues ahead of time?

Yes, meringues can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container.

→ What can I use instead of berries?

You can top them with any seasonal fruit or even chocolate shavings.

→ Why did my pavlovas crack?

Cracking can occur if the oven temperature is too high or if they are removed from the oven too quickly.

→ How do I store leftover pavlovas?

Store leftover pavlovas in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Avoid refrigerating them to keep them crisp.