When the holiday season arrives, my kitchen transforms into a festive wonderland, rich with the scents of spices and sweet treats. One little delight that always steals the spotlight is my White Christmas Pavlovas. Imagine biting into a light, airy meringue topped with a cloud of whipped cream and adorned with luscious toppings that evoke the beauty of a winter wonderland.
This dessert isn’t just stunning—it also offers a unique sense of joy in its preparation. The satisfying crunch of the meringue crust gives way to a delicate center, a contrast that feels like the perfect metaphor for the holidays: a celebration of simple yet profound pleasures. I’ve discovered that the best part about these pavlovas is their versatility; you can dress them up with whatever ingredients speak to you—think melted white chocolate alongside milky macadamia nuts, or tropical coconut that brings a bit of sunshine to a cold day.
Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, these pavlovas are made for sharing with loved ones, turning any occasion into a festive memory. Let’s dive into this enchanting recipe together and create something truly magical!
Why will you love White Christmas Pavlovas?
Light, Fluffy Texture: The delicate meringue offers a satisfying crunch that melts in your mouth.
Customizable Toppings: Dress these pavlovas in your favorite holiday flavors—think melty white chocolate or sweetened coconut!
Impressive Presentation: With their ethereal beauty, these pavlovas are bound to wow your guests.
Easy to Prepare: Perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers, this recipe simplifies holiday desserts.
Make-Ahead Flexibility: Bake the meringues in advance, making your holiday prep a breeze.
Crowd Favorite: The combination of flavors and textures is sure to please everyone at your table!
White Christmas Pavlovas Ingredients
For the Meringue
- Granulated sugar – This is the sweet base for your meringue, creating that delightful crunch.
- Cornstarch – Helps stabilize the meringue for a perfect texture and glossy finish.
- Large egg whites – Use at room temperature for better volume and stability in your meringue.
- Cream of tartar – A key ingredient to enhance the stability and structure of your meringue.
- Salt – A pinch adds balance to the sweetness of the sugar.
- Vanilla extract – Adds a warm, comforting flavor that ties all the elements together.
For the Whipped Topping
- Heavy whipping cream – This creates a luxurious, creamy topping that complements the meringue.
- Sour cream – Adds a tangy richness to the whipped cream, balancing the sweetness.
For the Toppings
- Melted white chocolate – This decadent addition will enhance the sweet flavors of your White Christmas Pavlovas.
- Chopped macadamia nuts – A crunchy, buttery element that brings texture and depth.
- Sliced bananas – Provides a tropical note that contrasts beautifully with the meringue.
- Crumpled vanilla wafers – Adds a delightful crunch and nostalgic flavor.
- Toasted coconut chips – These give a hint of toasted sweetness, resembling snowy winter scenery.
- Sweetened flaked coconut – For a soft, chewy topping that adds richness.
- Sliced almonds – A nutty crunch that adds a lovely visual and textural contrast.
Get ready to create some stunning White Christmas Pavlovas that will be the highlight of your holiday gatherings!
How to Make White Christmas Pavlovas
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Preheat oven: Set your oven to 225°F and position the racks in the upper and lower third. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and cornstarch until well combined; set this mixture aside.
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Beat egg whites: Using an electric mixer with a whisk attachment, beat the egg whites on medium-high speed for 1 minute until frothy.
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Add cream of tartar and salt: Sprinkle in the cream of tartar and salt, then beat for about 30 seconds until well mixed.
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Incorporate sugar: With the mixer on high speed, gradually add the sugar mixture 2 tablespoons at a time, beating until glossy, stiff peaks form and the sugar is nearly dissolved (around 2 minutes)—be careful not to overbeat!
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Flavor the meringue: Reduce the mixer speed to low and gently beat in ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract to infuse a warm flavor.
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Shape meringues: Carefully spoon about ⅓ cup of the meringue onto the prepared baking sheets, forming 3 ½-inch circles. Repeat until you have created 12 circles total.
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Bake meringues: Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for approximately 1 ½ hours, rotating them halfway through, until a crust forms.
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Cool carefully: Once baked, turn off the oven and let the meringues cool completely inside with the door closed. This should take at least 3 hours, allowing them to develop dry, shiny tops.
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Chill equipment: While the meringues are cooling, chill the bowl of a stand mixer and the whisk attachment in the freezer for 30 minutes to ensure perfect whipped cream.
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Whip cream: Pour the cold heavy whipping cream into the chilled bowl, and beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
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Add sour cream: Gently fold in the sour cream and beat for another 30 seconds until stiff peaks form, ensuring your topping is rich and creamy.
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Flavor topping: Mix in the remaining 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until just combined for a delightful flavor boost.
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Assemble pavlovas: Arrange the cooled meringues on a serving platter, topping each with about ¼ cup of the whipped cream mixture. Then, let your creativity shine as you garnish with your favorite toppings.
Optional: Drizzle with extra melted white chocolate for added decadence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
White Christmas Pavlovas Variations
Get ready to personalize your delightful pavlovas with these creative options!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy whipping cream with coconut cream and omit the sour cream for a tropical twist.
You’ll still have that creamy topping, just with a hint of island vibes! -
Sugar-Free: Use a granulated sugar substitute, like erythritol, to enjoy this treat while cutting calories.
The sweet crunch is still there, making it a guilt-free indulgence for all. -
Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate cocoa powder into the meringue for a chocolatey base that pairs beautifully with your toppings.
Top with dark chocolate shavings for an extra decadent experience! -
Tropical Flair: Replace macadamia nuts with toasted pecans and add fresh mango slices for a sunny twist.
This transformation brings an exotic touch, perfect for warm holiday gatherings! -
Nut-Free: Swap out nuts entirely and add a sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin spice in the whipped cream for a warm flavor.
The spices will warm your heart and evoke cozy holiday memories! -
Boozy Kick: Add a splash of flavored liqueur like Amaretto or Chambord to the whipped cream for an adult twist.
This adds a festive flair that will impress your guests in a jiffy! -
Warm and Cozy: Honor the season by infusing the meringue with ground ginger or nutmeg for an aromatic twist.
It’ll envelop your pavlovas in a comforting winter warmth! -
Fruity Surprise: Layer in seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds or cranberries for a burst of color and tartness.
The pop of these juicy additions beautifully complements the sweetness of the meringue!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful White Christmas Pavlovas are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy more festive moments without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the meringues up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake them, then let them cool completely in the oven with the door closed. Store the cooled meringues in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crisp texture. For the whipped topping, you can whip the cream and sour cream mixture up to 3 days ahead, refrigerating it in a sealed bowl until you’re ready to assemble. When you want to serve, simply top the meringues with the whipped cream mixture and add your favorite toppings for a stunning dessert that feels just as magical as if it were freshly made!
Expert Tips for White Christmas Pavlovas
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Room Temperature Eggs: Always use eggs at room temperature for better volume. Cold eggs won’t whip up properly, affecting the meringue texture.
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Avoid Overbeating: Be careful not to overbeat the egg whites when adding the sugar. Stop when glossy, stiff peaks form to ensure a light texture.
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Cooling Time: Allow meringues to cool completely in the oven with the door closed. This prevents cracking and keeps them light and airy.
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Chill Your Tools: Chill your mixing bowl and whisk attachment to create a stable whipped cream topping. Warm tools can lead to unsatisfactory results.
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Customize Toppings: Feel free to use your favorite toppings on your White Christmas Pavlovas. Try different nuts, fruits, or chocolate for a personal touch.
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Store Carefully: If making ahead, store meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week for the best texture.
What to Serve with White Christmas Pavlovas?
Transform your holiday dessert table into a feast of delightful pairings that complement the airy indulgence of Pavlovas.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries balances the sweetness, adding a burst of freshness to each bite.
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Chocolate Sauce: A warm drizzle of rich chocolate adds depth, creating an enticing contrast to the light meringue.
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Spiced Chai Tea: With its warm spices, a cup of chai tea enhances the seasonal vibe, pairing perfectly with the creamy topping.
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Coconut Macaroons: These chewy sweets echo the coconut toppings while adding another layer of texture and holiday flavor.
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Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: This cool, refreshing dessert creates a delightful temperature contrast for your taste buds, enhancing the experience.
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Cranberry Ginger Spritzer: A bubbly, refreshing drink adds a festive touch, while the tart cranberries cut through the richness for a balanced palate.
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Caramelized Bananas: Layering soft, caramelized bananas atop the pavlova adds comforting warmth and a hint of nostalgia, reminiscent of classic desserts.
Each of these pairing ideas elevates your White Christmas Pavlovas, turning a sweet treat into a memorable culinary experience perfect for the holidays!
How to Store and Freeze White Christmas Pavlovas
Room Temperature: Store leftover pavlovas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their crisp texture.
Fridge: If assembled, keep the pavlovas covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the meringue may become slightly sticky due to humidity.
Freezer: To freeze meringues, place them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper. They can last up to 1 month, but will lose some of their crunch.
Reheating: Do not reheat meringues, as they are best enjoyed fresh. If freezing, thaw at room temperature before serving, then top with whipped cream and toppings.
White Christmas Pavlovas Recipe FAQs
What type of egg whites should I use for the meringue?
Absolutely! Use large egg whites at room temperature for the best results. They whip better and help create a lighter, fluffier meringue, which is essential for those beautiful pavlovas.
How can I store leftover pavlovas?
The more the merrier! If you have any leftovers, store assembled pavlovas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be aware that the meringue may become a tad sticky from humidity, which is quite common for meringue-based desserts.
Can I freeze Pavlovas for later use?
Definitely! To freeze your meringues, first, let them cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature before topping them with whipped cream and your favorite toppings.
What should I do if my meringue cracks while baking?
No worries! Cracking can happen, especially if the meringue is baked at a high temperature or if the oven is opened too often. Next time, ensure your oven is properly preheated to 225°F, and avoid opening the door while baking or cooling. If your meringues crack, they’re still delicious—just consider them rustic!
Is there a safe way to use this recipe for those with dietary allergies?
Very much so! If you’re catering to someone with egg allergies, unfortunately, this recipe isn’t suitable as it relies heavily on egg whites. However, for gluten allergies, feel free to use gluten-free toppings like chocolate or fruits. Just make sure to check labels on any store-bought items you use. For nut allergies, you can skip the nuts altogether without losing the magic of these pavlovas!
What if my whipped cream doesn’t hold its shape?
No problem at all! If your whipped cream isn’t holding its shape, try chilling your mixing bowl and whisk for 30 minutes before whipping. This helps achieve that fluffy, stable texture. If you beat the cream past soft peaks, it can turn grainy, so aim for stiff peaks for the best results on your delightful White Christmas Pavlovas!
Delightful White Christmas Pavlovas Perfect for Holiday Celebrations
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 225°F and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Whisk together granulated sugar and cornstarch in a bowl; set aside.
- Beat egg whites on medium-high speed for 1 minute until frothy.
- Add cream of tartar and salt, beating for about 30 seconds.
- Gradually add the sugar mixture, beating until glossy, stiff peaks form.
- Reduce speed to low and gently mix in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Spoon about 1/3 cup of the meringue onto the sheets, shape into 3 ½-inch circles.
- Bake for approximately 1 ½ hours, rotating halfway, until a crust forms.
- Turn off oven and let meringues cool completely inside for at least 3 hours.
- Chill mixing bowl and whisk attachment in freezer for 30 minutes.
- Whip cold heavy cream in chilled bowl until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold in sour cream and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Mix in remaining 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Arrange meringues on a platter and top each with whipped cream and favorite toppings.