The Strawberry Topped Chocolate Pavlova is a dessert that has a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I made it for a summer gathering with friends. The combination of crisp, airy meringue topped with luscious cream and vibrant strawberries was a sight to behold. Everyone gathered around the table, captivated by the delicate layers and rich flavors. It was one of those moments that made me realize how powerful dessert can be in bringing people together. Every bite was a celebration, a testament to the joy of sharing good food and creating memories. Whether it’s for a birthday, an afternoon tea, or just because you crave something sweet, this pavlova is the perfect treat to impress your loved ones and indulge your senses.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
290 kcal

Protein:
4g g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
16g g

Tools Used:
Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Oven

Why You Need This Strawberry Topped Chocolate Pavlova

Delightfully Light

The first thing you’ll notice about the Strawberry Topped Chocolate Pavlova is its ethereal lightness. The meringue base, made primarily from egg whites and sugar, creates a crispy outer shell that gives way to a soft, marshmallow-like center. This delightful contrast in textures is what makes this dessert truly special.

Impressive Yet Simple

Despite its elegant appearance, making a pavlova is surprisingly straightforward. As a home cook, you’ll appreciate how manageable the steps are. With just a few ingredients and basic techniques, you can create a show-stopping dessert that looks like it came from a professional bakery.

Flavor Harmony

The combination of rich cocoa powder in the meringue, the sweetness of the whipped cream, and the tartness of the strawberries creates a harmonious flavor profile. Each bite is a delightful experience, balancing sweetness and acidity, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Seasonal Sensation

This recipe truly shines in the spring, when strawberries are at their peak. Using fresh, in-season fruit elevates the flavor and adds a beautiful color contrast to the dessert. You might even find yourself experimenting with other seasonal fruits!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a birthday celebration, or a quiet night in, the Strawberry Topped Chocolate Pavlova fits perfectly. Its versatility makes it suitable for many occasions, and it’s sure to impress guests of all ages.

Customizable Joy

One of the best things about this pavlova is how easy it is to customize. While the classic version is divine, feel free to experiment with different toppings, such as passion fruit, kiwi, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence!

Recipe Ingredients for Strawberry Topped Chocolate Pavlova

The ingredients for Strawberry Topped Chocolate Pavlova are simple, yet each one plays a vital role in creating this stunning dessert. The key players are the egg whites, which form the basis of the light and airy meringue. The cocoa powder adds a rich depth, while the fresh strawberries provide a burst of color and flavor. Each ingredient complements the others, resulting in a delightful balance that makes this pavlova unforgettable.

6 egg whites, at room temperature: The foundation of the pavlova, providing structure and lightness.
¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the meringue.
1 ½ cups superfine sugar: Adds sweetness and helps to stabilize the egg whites.
¼ cup good quality cocoa powder: Infuses the meringue with a delicious chocolate flavor.
1 teaspoon raspberry or balsamic vinegar: Adds a touch of acidity, helping to create a stable meringue.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: A classic flavor enhancer.
2 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped: Provides a rich chocolate element to the pavlova.
1 ½ cups heavy cream: The base for the whipped topping, adding creaminess.
½ cup Mascarpone cream: Adds richness and a smooth texture to the whipped cream.
½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream topping.
1 teaspoon vanilla: For flavoring the whipped cream.
4 cups sliced strawberries, gently tossed with a tablespoon of sugar: The fresh, fruity topping that completes the dessert.

How to Make Strawberry Topped Chocolate Pavlova

Making the Strawberry Topped Chocolate Pavlova is an enjoyable and rewarding process. It involves creating a light meringue and then assembling the glorious layers. Let’s dive into the detailed steps to bring this dessert to life!

Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and draw a 9-inch circle on the parchment to guide you. Flip the paper over so the pencil side is down. This way, the pencil won’t touch the meringue.
In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer. Beat them until soft peaks form—this means that the egg whites should hold a shape when you lift the beaters, but the peaks should still be soft.
Add the salt to the beaten egg whites. Continue beating while gradually adding the superfine sugar, a spoonful at a time. Keep mixing until the meringue is stiff and glossy; this can take several minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you can turn the bowl upside down without the meringue sliding out!
Sift the cocoa powder over the meringue. Add in the vinegar, vanilla extract, and the finely chopped chocolate. Use a spatula to gently fold these ingredients into the meringue, being careful not to deflate it.
Carefully spoon the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, using the drawn circle as a guide. Pile it high, keeping it within the circle’s boundaries. Smooth the top and edges with an offset spatula, creating a nice dome shape.
Place the meringue in the preheated oven, then immediately reduce the temperature to 300ºF. This lower temperature allows the meringue to dry out slowly, creating that perfect crisp outer layer.
Bake the meringue for about 1 to 1¼ hours. You’ll want the edges to feel dry and the top to have a cracked appearance. Don’t be alarmed; this is normal! The center should remain soft.
Once baked, turn off the oven and open the door slightly. Allow the pavlova to cool completely in the oven. This step is crucial as it helps prevent cracking.
When ready to serve, carefully flip the cooled pavlova onto a serving plate. This might take a gentle touch, but it’s worth it!
To make the topping, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the Mascarpone cream until well combined.
Spread the whipped mixture over the pavlova and top with the sliced strawberries, which you’ve tossed with a little sugar to enhance their sweetness.

Things Worth Knowing

Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for the best volume and stability when whipped.
Proper Folding Technique: When adding dry ingredients to wet, use a gentle folding motion to avoid deflating the mixture.
Cooling the Meringue: Letting the pavlova cool in the oven prevents sudden temperature changes that can lead to cracking.
Using Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh strawberries for the best flavor and presentation.

Helpful Notes about Strawberry Topped Chocolate Pavlova

Here are some helpful notes to ensure that your Strawberry Topped Chocolate Pavlova turns out perfect every time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these tips will enhance your experience.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. The meringue may become soft if stored in the fridge.
Freezing: You can freeze the meringue base if needed. Just wrap it well in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
Pairing: This dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, adding a comforting touch to your serving.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different fruits based on the season, like raspberries or kiwi!
Serving Suggestion: For an extra touch, drizzle some chocolate sauce over the top before serving.

How to Serve Strawberry Topped Chocolate Pavlova

Serving the Strawberry Topped Chocolate Pavlova is just as enjoyable as making it. Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation and enjoyment:

Chilled Delight: Serve the pavlova immediately after topping to maintain the contrast between the crisp meringue and the creamy topping.
Festive Gatherings: This dessert is perfect for special occasions, such as birthdays or holiday parties, where it can be the centerpiece.
Seasonal Pairings: Consider pairing the pavlova with a light, fruity white wine or sparkling cider for a refreshing complement.
Individual Servings: For a more elegant touch, serve individual pavlovas instead of one large one, allowing for personal customization.
Garnish Ideas: Add some mint leaves or edible flowers to enhance the visual appeal when serving.
Leftover Ideas: If you have any leftover whipped cream, serve it on the side for those who want a little extra indulgence!

FAQ

The pavlova is special because it features a unique combination of textures. The outer shell is crispy, while the inside remains soft and marshmallow-like. This contrast is unlike many other meringue desserts, which tend to be more uniform in texture. The addition of cocoa powder in this recipe also sets it apart, giving it a rich chocolate flavor that complements the sweetness of the whipped cream and fresh strawberries.

Absolutely! In fact, making the pavlova ahead of time is a great idea. You can prepare the meringue a day in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Just remember to wait until you’re ready to serve to add the whipped cream and strawberries, as they can cause the meringue to soften over time.

Your pavlova is done when the edges feel dry and the top looks slightly cracked. It should have a pale color, and if you gently touch the surface, it should have a firm texture. The center will remain soft, which is perfectly normal. After baking, it’s crucial to let it cool in the oven to avoid cracking due to sudden temperature changes.

The great thing about pavlova is its versatility! While strawberries are a classic choice, you can use a variety of fruits depending on the season. Fresh raspberries, kiwi, passion fruit, or even a mix of berries can add delicious flavors and beautiful colors. Just ensure the fruits are ripe and sweet for the best results!

Conclusion

The Strawberry Topped Chocolate Pavlova is truly a standout dessert that will leave an impression with its delightful balance of textures and flavors. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, whether for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth. It’s a wonderful way to create cherished memories around the dining table, and I can assure you that your friends and family will be asking for seconds!