When the sun shines through my kitchen window, it’s as if the universe nudges me to whip up something delightfully sweet. Enter these Mini Pavlova Nests, which were born out of my quest for an elegant dessert that could impress guests without the stress. Imagine a crisp, airy meringue base cradling a luscious coconut custard, all topped with a sprinkle of toasted coconut—it’s like a little cloud of happiness on your plate!
These nests are not just visually stunning; they are incredibly versatile. Perfect for a gathering or a quiet evening indulgence, they offer a refreshing break from everyday desserts. Best of all, making them is a joyful experience that rewards you with delicious results. Trust me, once you indulge in these, you’ll wonder how you ever settled for anything less. Let’s dive into this simple yet sophisticated recipe that will transform any occasion into a celebration!
Why are Mini Pavlova Nests so special?
Elevated elegance: With a stunning presentation, these Mini Pavlova Nests are sure to impress at any gathering.
Heavenly taste: The crispy meringue pairs beautifully with creamy coconut custard for a delightful flavor combination.
Easy step-by-step: Simple instructions guide you through the process, making this a stress-free dessert option.
Versatile delight: Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, customize the toppings to fit any occasion!
Time to savor: While they take some time to chill, the results are well worth the wait, leaving you with a light, airy treat.
Mini Pavlova Nests Ingredients
• The key to crafting those delectable Mini Pavlova Nests lies in simple, high-quality ingredients.
For the Meringue Base
- Egg whites – Essential for that airy texture; ensure they are at room temperature for best results.
- Cream of tartar – Helps stabilize the meringue, giving it the perfect structure.
- Salt – Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
- Sugar (divided) – Used in two parts to create a shiny, smooth meringue that’s stable and sweet.
- Vanilla extract – Adds a warm, aromatic undertone to the meringue.
- Sweetened coconut flakes – Sprinkle on top for a delightful crunch and coconutty flavor.
For the Coconut Custard
- Sugar (for custard) – Provides the necessary sweetness that beautifully complements the nuttiness of coconut.
- Cornstarch – A thickening agent that transforms the mixture into a luscious custard.
- Sea salt – Enhances the custard’s overall flavor profile.
- Whole milk – Creates a rich base for a creamy custard texture.
- Coconut milk – Infuses this blissful layer with an intense, tropical flavor that defines the dessert.
- Egg yolks – Enriches the custard, giving it a silky consistency.
- Coconut extract – Deepens the coconut flavor for an indulgent custard experience.
These Mini Pavlova Nests truly embody the beauty of homemade desserts, offering a delightful treat filled with the bliss of coconut and sweetness.
How to Make Mini Pavlova Nests
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Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Get two large baking sheets ready by lining them with parchment paper or silicone mats—this ensures our meringues won’t stick!
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Whisk together egg whites, cream of tartar, and salt in a stand mixer bowl fitted with the whisk attachment. Whip for 1-2 minutes until frothy, then gradually add 2/3 cup sugar, whisking until the mixture is shiny and thickened, about 2-3 more minutes.
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Add vanilla extract and mix well to combine the flavors. The addition will enhance the meringue’s aroma and taste wonderfully.
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Test your meringue for stiff peaks. If the mixture holds its shape when you lift the whisk, you’re good to go! If not, continue whisking and testing until it’s perfect.
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Fold gently the remaining 1/3 cup sugar into the meringue. This step keeps the mixture light and airy, crucial for those lovely nests.
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Pipe the meringue into shapes! Fit a piping bag with an open star tip, and pipe about 2-inch swirls for the base, creating walls to form the nests.
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Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top of the meringues if you’d like a bit of extra flavor and texture. Bake for 2 hours, checking to ensure they are not browning. Turn off the oven and let them cool inside for 3-4 hours undisturbed.
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Prepare the custard: Set a fine mesh sieve over a heatproof bowl. In a small saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
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Combine the mixture with whole milk, whisking until smooth. Then, add the coconut milk, egg yolks, and coconut extract, whisking to incorporate everything.
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Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly until it thickens—this should take about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and keep whisking until smooth.
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Strain the custard through the sieve into your heatproof bowl. To prevent a skin from forming, cover it with plastic wrap, ensuring it touches the top, and refrigerate until cool.
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Whisk the cold custard vigorously until it’s smooth again. Fill each meringue nest with about a tablespoon of custard, creating a heavenly center.
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Drizzle with melted chocolate and sprinkle with more toasted coconut for that finishing touch, if desired.
Optional: Top with fresh fruit for an added splash of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Mini Pavlova Nests
Room Temperature: Allow meringue nests to cool completely before storing at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their crispiness.
Fridge: Store filled Mini Pavlova Nests in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Be mindful that the meringue may lose some crispness due to humidity from the custard.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfilled meringue nests in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before filling with custard.
Reheating: Meringues do not require reheating; instead, serve the nests chilled for the best experience. If you find them soft, try toasting in a low oven (200°F) for a few minutes.
Expert Tips for Mini Pavlova Nests
• Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for maximum volume and stability when whipped.
• Avoid Humidity: Meringues are sensitive to moisture, so pick a dry day to make your Mini Pavlova Nests to prevent them from becoming sticky.
• Gentle Folding: When adding sugar to the meringue, fold it in gently to maintain that airy texture. Overmixing can lead to deflation and a less stable structure.
• Custard Consistency: Keep whisking the custard over medium heat until it thickens to avoid lumps. Don’t rush this step, as a smooth custard is key to filling the meringue nests beautifully.
• Cooling Time: Be patient during the cooling phase! Allowing the meringues to cool inside the oven prevents cracks and helps maintain their light, crispy texture.
By following these helpful tips, you’ll create beautiful Mini Pavlova Nests filled with coconut custard bliss. Enjoy!
What to Serve with Mini Pavlova Nests?
When serving these delightful nests, you want a spread that enhances their coconut bliss and adds a burst of freshness.
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Tropical Fruit Salad: Juicy mangoes, ripe kiwis, and sweet pineapples create a refreshing contrast to the creamy custard, adding vibrancy to your dessert table. A hint of lime juice elevates the flavors, making every bite a tropical escape.
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Coconut Sorbet: This icy treat harmonizes beautifully with the meringue’s texture. The subtle coconut flavor will enhance your dessert’s theme while offering a cool palate cleanser.
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Berry Compote: A tangy berry compote brings a luscious tartness that balances the sweetness of the nests. The vibrant colors also add an eye-catching element to your presentation.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A rich chocolate sauce drizzled over the nests creates an indulgent twist. The bitterness of the chocolate highlights the sweetness of the coconut custard, bringing out the best in both flavors.
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Mint Infused Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this minty whipped cream adds a refreshing pop of flavor that complements the sweetness of the nests. The herbal notes brighten the palate, making for a delightful end to your meal.
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Sparkling Wine: Pair these nests with a glass of chilled sparkling wine or prosecco. The bubbles add a festive touch, enhancing the experience of these delicate desserts.
Make Ahead Options
These Mini Pavlova Nests are perfect for busy home cooks, allowing you to save time on your special occasion! You can prepare the meringue bases up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe, then store the cooled meringues in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crisp texture. For the coconut custard, you can make it up to 3 days ahead, refrigerating it in an airtight container with plastic wrap touching the surface to prevent a skin from forming. When you’re ready to serve, fill each meringue nest with custard and finish with a drizzle of melted chocolate and a sprinkle of toasted coconut for a delightful dessert that feels incredibly fresh and just as delicious!
Mini Pavlova Nests Variations
Feel free to let your imagination run wild as you explore these delightful twists on the classic recipe!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free cream for a lighter version.
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Fruit-Infused: Add a layer of fresh berries or mango slices atop the custard for a burst of color and tangy flavor. The fruit will complement the coconut beautifully.
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Chocolate Lovers: Fold in cocoa powder into the meringue or drizzle with dark chocolate for a richer dessert experience. The chocolate pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the custard.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate crushed almonds or pistachios into the meringue base for an extra crunchy surprise in every bite. Imagine the delightful contrast of textures!
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Spiced Coconut: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard for a warm, spiced flavor that adds depth and intrigue.
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Citrus Zest: Add some lemon or lime zest to the custard for a bright, zesty lift that balances the richness of the coconut.
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Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of homemade caramel sauce over the filled nests will take your dessert to the next level of indulgence. The sweetness will create a heavenly experience!
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Savory Twist: For a unique take, try infusing the custard with herbs like basil or mint. This unexpected flavor profile is sure to delight adventurous eaters!
Embrace these variations to make your Mini Pavlova Nests truly your own!
Mini Pavlova Nests Recipe FAQs
What type of egg whites should I use for the meringue?
Use fresh, large egg whites for the best results. Ensure they’re at room temperature, as this allows them to whip up to their maximum volume, creating that airy texture essential for meringue.
How should I store leftover Mini Pavlova Nests?
Store unfilled meringue nests in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them crispy. If you have filled nests with custard, they should be kept in the refrigerator and consumed within 1 day to prevent sogginess.
Can I freeze Mini Pavlova Nests? How do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze unfilled nests, place them in a freezer-safe container lined with parchment paper, separating layers if necessary. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw them at room temperature before filling with your coconut custard.
What if my meringue doesn’t hold stiff peaks?
If your meringue isn’t forming stiff peaks, ensure that your mixing bowl and whisk are completely clean and free of any grease or moisture. If it still doesn’t work after whisking longer, you may need to start over with fresh egg whites, as even a bit of yolk can affect the volume.
Are there any dietary considerations for the ingredients used?
Yes! If you’re preparing these for someone with egg allergies, unfortunately, this recipe wouldn’t be suitable. However, there are vegan alternatives to meringue made from aquafaba (chickpea water), which can create a similar texture. Be sure to substitute all dairy with plant-based options if lactose intolerance is a concern.
How can I customize the flavor of the custard filling?
Feel free to experiment! While coconut is delicious, you can infuse flavors such as lime or almond by adding a few drops of extract to the custard. Or consider folding in a puree of your favorite fruit into the cooled custard for a lovely twist!
Delicious Mini Pavlova Nests with Coconut Custard Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Get two large baking sheets ready by lining them with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- Whisk together egg whites, cream of tartar, and salt in a stand mixer bowl fitted with the whisk attachment. Whip for 1-2 minutes until frothy, then gradually add 2/3 cup sugar.
- Add vanilla extract and mix well to combine the flavors.
- Test your meringue for stiff peaks. If the mixture holds its shape when you lift the whisk, you're good to go.
- Fold gently the remaining 1/3 cup sugar into the meringue.
- Pipe the meringue into shapes! Fit a piping bag with an open star tip.
- Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top and bake for 2 hours.
- Turn off the oven and let them cool inside for 3-4 hours undisturbed.
- Set a fine mesh sieve over a heatproof bowl. In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Combine the mixture with whole milk, whisking until smooth.
- Add the coconut milk, egg yolks, and coconut extract, whisking to incorporate everything.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Strain the custard through the sieve into your heatproof bowl.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until cool.
- Whisk the cold custard vigorously until smooth again. Fill each meringue nest.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate and sprinkle with more toasted coconut if desired.