Berries and Cream Tray Pavlova: A Summer Celebration Delight

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

Summer is the season that brings forth a symphony of colors, and nothing captures that essence quite like a Berries and Cream Tray Pavlova. Picture yourself poolside on a warm afternoon, where laughter and sunshine accompany a dessert that looks as delightful as it tastes. This elegant, fuss-free pavlova boasts a perfectly crisp meringue shell with a chewy heart, delicately crowned with a luscious layer of whipped cream and an abundance of fresh, vibrant berries.

I stumbled upon this gem during a backyard get-together, and that moment reshaped my dessert-making. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe not only impresses guests but lifts spirits, making every celebration feel special. Whether you re hosting a casual BBQ or preparing for a holiday feast, this pavlova effortlessly adds a touch of elegance to your dessert lineup. Get ready to indulge in a heavenly experience that s as unforgettable as the memories you ll create!

Why will you love Berries and Cream Tray Pavlova?

Simplicity at its Finest: This fuss-free recipe requires minimal prep, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers.

Impressive Presentation: Its stunning layers of cream and colorful berries create a show-stopping dessert that is sure to impress your guests.

Seasonal Freshness: Utilizing fresh, ripe berries brings an unrivaled burst of flavor, celebrating the best produce summer has to offer.

Versatile Delight: Feel free to switch up the berries or even the flavors of the cream to suit any season or preference, ensuring endless variations.

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: With its light, airy meringue and rich cream, this pavlova is a universally loved dessert that s perfect for any occasion!

Get ready to create delightful memories with a dessert that not only looks good but tastes divine!

Berries and Cream Tray Pavlova Ingredients

For the Meringue

• Egg Whites Essential for structure; they create the delightful meringue make sure they re at room temperature for maximum volume.
• Caster Sugar Provides sweetness and stability to the meringue; superfine sugar works as a great substitute if needed.
• White Vinegar Stabilizes the egg whites, ensuring a firmer meringue; don t skip this crucial ingredient for the perfect texture.
• Vanilla Essence Enhances flavor in both the cream and meringue; feel free to substitute it with vanilla extract for convenience.

For the Toppings

• Thickened Cream Whips up beautifully for a rich and creamy layer; substitute with heavy cream if desired.
• Strawberries A primary fruit that creates a jam-like topping for your dessert; swap with seasonal berries like raspberries or blackberries for variety.
• Icing Sugar A sweet dusting for that touch of elegance; can be omitted for a less sweet finish if preferred.

Feel free to savor the experience of crafting this delectable Berries and Cream Tray Pavlova, where each layer tells a story of summer s vibrant freshness!

How to Make Berries and Cream Tray Pavlova

1. Preheat your oven to 150 °C (fan-forced). This initial temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy shell on your pavlova.
2. Whip the egg whites using an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form. This should take about 4-5 minutes and is key for that airy texture.
3. Gradually add caster sugar while whisking, continuing until the mixture is thick and glossy this will take around 6 minutes. The sugar must be fully dissolved for the best outcome.
4. Incorporate the white vinegar and whisk for an additional 2 minutes. This step stabilizes your meringue, ensuring it holds its shape beautifully.
5. Spoon the meringue onto a lined baking tray, gently creating a large disk. Aim for a slightly raised edge this will cradle the cream and berries later on.
6. Reduce the oven temperature to 120 °C (fan-forced) and bake for 1 hour. This slow baking process helps form that delightful crust.
7. Turn off the oven and leave the pavlova to cool completely inside. This will avoid any sudden temperature changes that might cause cracking.
8. Prepare the topping by combining strawberries, a sprinkle of sugar, and a splash of vanilla in a saucepan. Boil gently until thickened, about 6-7 minutes, then let it cool.
9. Whisk the thickened cream with a dash of vanilla until soft peaks form. This luscious cream will sit perfectly atop your pavlova.
10. Assemble the pavlova by generously topping it with whipped cream, the cooled strawberry mixture, fresh raspberries, and blueberries. Dust lightly with icing sugar for that finishing touch.

Optional: Garnish with a sprig of mint for a pop of color and freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Berries and Cream Tray Pavlova Variations

Feel free to explore these fun and delicious variations to make this dessert your own, inviting delightful surprises with every bite!

• Chocolate Meringue: Add a few tablespoons of cocoa powder to the egg whites for a rich chocolate twist. This variation pairs beautifully with berries, creating a decadent treat!
• Peach Paradise: Substitute strawberries with juicy peaches for a summery twist. The sweet, soft texture of peaches complements the cream and makes every slice heavenly.
• Mixed Berry Jam: Swap the fresh strawberry topping with a homemade mixed berry jam for a rustic flair. It adds a depth of flavor that elevates your pavlova!
• Citrus Burst: Mix lime or lemon juice into the whipped cream for a zesty surprise. This brightens the dish and provides a refreshing counterpoint to the sweetness!
• Dairy-Free Cream: Use coconut cream instead of thickened cream for a dairy-free option. The coconut flavor lends a tropical vibe, perfect for summer gatherings.
• Spiced Berry Compote: Cook your berries with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced compote. This creates a comforting warmth that contrasts beautifully with the pavlova s crunch.
• Nuts for Texture: Add a sprinkle of toasted nuts, such as pistachios or almonds, on top of your pavlova. They bring a delightful crunch that enhances both the flavor and texture!
• Chili Kick: Add a hint of cayenne or crushed chili flakes to the jam for an unexpected heat. This spicy twist can elevate your pavlova to a whole new level of deliciousness!

Make Ahead Options

These Berries and Cream Tray Pavlova components are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dessert with minimal effort on the day of your gathering. You can whip the meringue up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crispiness. Additionally, the strawberry topping can be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just let it cool completely before storing. When you re ready to serve, simply whip the cream and assemble the pavlova by layering the cream, strawberry topping, and fresh berries just before enjoying. This ensures each component remains fresh, vibrant, and just as delicious!

What to Serve with Berries and Cream Tray Pavlova?

Elevate your summer gatherings by complementing this dazzling dessert with delightful pairings that enhance its flavors.

• Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea brings a lightness that balances the richness of the pavlova s cream. Citrus-infused versions work particularly well!
• Sparkling Wine: Prosecco or champagne adds a festive touch, enhancing the celebration and pairing wonderfully with the sweetness of the berries.
• Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad offers a fresh and juicy contrast, showcasing more seasonal fruits and bringing extra color to your table.
• Light Whipped Yogurt: The tangy note of whipped yogurt harmonizes beautifully with the meringue and cream, adding an extra layer of creaminess.
• Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti provide a delightful texture contrast, perfect for dipping or enjoying alongside the pavlova.
• Lemon Sorbet: A scoop of zesty lemon sorbet adds a refreshing coolness that cuts through the richness, making each bite of the pavlova even more satisfying.
• Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc can bring out the sweet and tart flavors of the berries, offering a sophisticated pairing.
• Mint Tea: Serve warm mint tea for a soothing after-dinner drink that complements the pavlova s sweetness and aids digestion.

Indulge in these delightful pairings, and watch your dessert transform into a memorable dining experience!

Storage Tips for Berries and Cream Tray Pavlova

Room Temperature: Enjoy your pavlova fresh for the best texture. If needed, it can be left out for a short time (up to 1 hour) before serving.

Fridge: If there are leftovers, store the assembled pavlova in the fridge for up to 2 hours. Keep the cream and berries separate until ready to enjoy again to prevent sogginess.

Freezer: It s best not to freeze the assembled pavlova as the meringue loses its crispness. However, meringue can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Reheating: If you must store it, warm the pavlova in a low oven (100 °C) for 10-15 minutes to regain some crispness before serving, but only if it s plain meringue, without toppings.

Expert Tips for Berries and Cream Tray Pavlova

• Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature, as this helps achieve maximum volume and stability in your meringue.
• Don t Rush Sugar: Gradually add caster sugar to the beaten egg whites; rushing this step can prevent that glossy finish essential for a perfect Berries and Cream Tray Pavlova.
• Avoid Opening the Oven: Resist the urge to peek! Opening the oven door while baking can cause the pavlova to collapse.
• Cracks Are Normal: If your pavlova cracks during baking, don t fret! It s a sign of a successful bake and adds character to your dessert.
• Proper Storage: Store any leftover meringue in an airtight container for 1-2 days to maintain its texture, but assemble with toppings right before serving to avoid sogginess.

Berries and Cream Tray Pavlova Recipe FAQs

What type of berries should I use for my pavlova?
Absolutely! You can use a mix of seasonal berries like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries for a vibrant topping. Each berry adds its unique flavor strawberries give sweetness, while raspberries offer a delightful tartness. Feel free to experiment with whatever is fresh and available; blackberries and even peaches or cherries are lovely substitutes!

How should I store leftovers from the pavlova?
Very good question! After enjoying your pavlova, if you have leftovers, store it in the fridge for up to 2 hours. It s best to keep the cream and berries separate from the meringue until you re ready to serve again. This prevents the meringue from getting soggy and losing that delightful crispness. For plain meringue, you can keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Can I freeze the pavlova?
While I wouldn t recommend freezing the assembled pavlova due to the risk of sogginess and texture loss, you can certainly freeze the plain meringue. To do so, ensure it s completely cooled, and then store it in an airtight container. It ll keep well for about a month. When you re ready to serve it again, just thaw it at room temperature and then whip up some fresh toppings!

What if my pavlova cracks while baking?
Don t worry! Cracks are more common than you think and can happen even with the best bakers. It usually means your pavlova has baked well! A few cracks add character and show that it s a homemade delight. Just top it generously with whipped cream and berries, and the cracks will be hidden!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If someone has an egg allergy, this pavlova wouldn t be suitable due to the egg whites in the meringue. However, for a gluten-free dessert, you re in luck this pavlova is naturally gluten-free! Always be cautious of cross-contamination if baking for someone with severe allergies. Ensure your workspace and utensils are thoroughly clean to avoid any mishaps.

How can I ensure perfect whipped cream?
To achieve soft peaks in your whipped cream, make sure to use cold thickened cream. Begin whisking on medium speed, then gradually increase to high once it begins to thicken. Avoid over-whipping, as it can turn grainy; stop when soft peaks form, and remember, a splash of vanilla or a bit of icing sugar can enhance the flavor beautifully!

These delightful tips will ensure your Berries and Cream Tray Pavlova turns out perfectly every time. Enjoy your sweet creation!