Air Fryer Pavlova

Air Fryer Pavlova – A Light & Crispy Dessert Made Easy

Introduction to Pavlova

Pavlova is a dreamy dessert with a crisp, delicate meringue shell and a marshmallow-soft center, typically topped with whipped cream and fresh fruits like berries, kiwis, or passionfruit. This elegant dessert, named after the ballerina Anna Pavlova, is a favorite in Australia and New Zealand—and now, it’s getting a modern twist by being baked in the air fryer.

You might be surprised, but your air fryer can absolutely handle the low-and-slow bake required for meringue. And it actually does it faster and more energy-efficiently than a traditional oven!

Why Make Pavlova in an Air Fryer?

Making Pavlova in an air fryer has become increasingly popular thanks to:

• Quick preheat and energy savings
• Even airflow for consistent baking
• Compact size – great for small batches or individual pavlovas
• Reliable crisp shell and soft interior

This recipe is perfect when you’re baking in summer and don’t want to turn on the oven, or if you’re looking to impress guests with a fancy dessert made in your trusty air fryer.

What Makes Pavlova Unique?

Pavlova stands out for its:

• Crispy exterior – Lightly golden with a delicate crackle
• Soft, marshmallow-like center – Almost like a baked marshmallow
• Cloud-like texture
• Versatile toppings – You can use whipped cream, Greek yogurt, or mascarpone with seasonal fruits

Unlike traditional meringue cookies that are dry throughout, Pavlova has a moist center, and getting it just right is easier in the air fryer than you might think.

Must-Have Ingredients for Pavlova

Let’s break down the ingredients (same as the classic version, but presented in a new layout):

• Egg Whites – Room temperature whites whip better and trap more air.
• Caster Sugar (Superfine Sugar) – Dissolves faster and helps stabilize the meringue.
• Cornstarch – Gives Pavlova that signature marshmallow interior.
• Vinegar or Lemon Juice – An acid that strengthens the meringue.
• Vanilla Extract – For aroma and flavor.
• Whipping Cream & Fruit – For topping after the shell cools.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Pavlova in the Air Fryer

Here’s how to perfect your Pavlova without an oven:

1. Prep the egg whites
   Start with clean, dry bowls (metal or glass) and room-temperature egg whites. Whip until foamy.
2. Add sugar gradually
   Add caster sugar one spoon at a time while whipping, ensuring it’s fully dissolved before adding more.
3. Stiffen the peaks
   Continue beating until the mixture is glossy and holds stiff peaks.
4. Fold in extras
   Gently fold in vanilla extract, vinegar, and cornstarch. Avoid overmixing.
5. Shape the Pavlova
   On a parchment-lined cake tin or air fryer-safe pan, shape into a round or mini nests with a slight dip in the center.
6. Air fry
   Preheat the air fryer to 120°C (250°F). Bake for 45–60 minutes, depending on size. Turn off the air fryer and let the Pavlova cool inside with the door slightly open for best texture.
7. Top and serve
   Once cool, top with whipped cream and fruit of choice.

Best Tips & Tricks for Perfect Pavlova

• Don’t rush the sugar – Undissolved sugar causes weeping (liquid oozing out).
• Use parchment or silicone liner – Prevents sticking.
• Avoid humidity – Pavlova doesn’t like moisture. Make it on dry days or cool in a dry space.
• Let it cool completely – This allows the structure to set without cracking.
• Use fresh fruit – Berries, kiwi, mango, and passionfruit balance the sweet meringue.

How to Store Pavlova

• Undecorated Pavlova: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days.
• Decorated Pavlova: Best served fresh; the cream will soften the shell over time. Keep in the fridge and consume within 24 hours.

Creative Variations

Want to put your spin on the classic Pavlova? Try:

• Mini Pavlovas – Individual servings made for dinner parties
• Chocolate Pavlova – Add a spoon of cocoa to the meringue
• Lemon curd topping – Tangy and rich
• Mascarpone cream – A luxurious upgrade from whipped cream

Quick Air Fryer Pavlova Recipe

📌 Description:

A light and crisp meringue dessert made in the air fryer. This Pavlova features a golden shell with a marshmallow-soft center, topped with whipped cream and fresh seasonal fruit.

⏱️ Duration:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Cooling Time: 1 hour (in air fryer or at room temp)
• Total Time: ~2 hours 5 minutes

🛒 Ingredients:

For the Pavlova Shell:

• 4 large egg whites (room temperature)
• 1 cup (200g) caster sugar
• 1 tsp white vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tsp cornstarch

For the Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar (optional)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1–2 cups fresh fruit (berries, kiwi, mango, etc.)

🥄 Instructions:

1. Beat egg whites until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating to stiff, glossy peaks.
3. Gently fold in vanilla, cornstarch, and vinegar.
4. Shape meringue on parchment paper into a round or mini nests.
5. Preheat air fryer to 120°C (250°F). Bake for 45–60 minutes.
6. Turn off air fryer, leave door ajar, and let Pavlova cool inside.
7. Whip the cream with vanilla and sugar (if using).
8. Top Pavlova with whipped cream and fruit just before serving.