Mini Pavlova Nests with Chocolate & Toasted Coconut

Mini Pavlova nests are airy, crisp meringue shells filled with soft whipped cream, drizzled with rich dark chocolate, and topped with toasted coconut flakes. This elegant dessert combines a light, melt-in-your-mouth texture with indulgent flavors, making it perfect for special occasions, afternoon tea, or festive celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crisp on the outside, soft on the inside – A perfect balance of textures in every bite.
• Elegant and impressive – A visually stunning dessert ideal for entertaining.
• Simple ingredients – Made with pantry staples for a fuss-free treat.
• Customizable – Easily adjust toppings to suit your preference.
• Great for celebrations – Perfect for Easter, parties, or as a light summer dessert.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Egg whites
• Granulated sugar
• Vanilla extract
• White vinegar
• Cornstarch
• Whipped cream
• Dark chocolate, melted
• Toasted coconut flakes

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 120°C (250°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a clean mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to whisk. The mixture should become thick and glossy.
4. Gently fold in the vanilla extract, white vinegar, and cornstarch.
5. Transfer the meringue mixture to a piping bag and pipe small nests onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 1 hour, then turn off the oven and let the nests cool completely inside with the door slightly ajar.
7. Once cooled, fill each nest with whipped cream.
8. Drizzle with melted dark chocolate and sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes.
9. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 mini Pavlova nests
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Baking time: 1 hour
• Cooling time: 1 hour
• Total time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Berry Bliss: Top with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a fruity twist.
• Nutty Delight: Sprinkle crushed almonds, pistachios, or hazelnuts instead of coconut.
• Chocolate Lovers: Use white or milk chocolate drizzle for a different flavor profile.
• Caramel Indulgence: Swap the chocolate drizzle for salted caramel sauce.
• Tropical Flavor: Add a touch of passion fruit pulp or mango puree for a fresh contrast.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store unfilled meringue nests in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Once filled with whipped cream, store in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours.
• Freezing: Meringue nests can be frozen unfilled for up to 1 month in an airtight container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Why do my meringues turn out chewy instead of crisp?

Chewy meringues are often due to excess humidity or underbaking. Ensure they dry completely in the oven before removing them.

Can I make mini Pavlova nests in advance?

Yes! You can bake the nests a few days ahead and store them in an airtight container. Add toppings just before serving.

How do I prevent my meringue from deflating?

Avoid over-mixing when folding in cornstarch and vinegar, and ensure your mixing bowl is grease-free for the best structure.

Can I use a hand whisk instead of an electric mixer?

While possible, it requires much more effort and time. An electric mixer makes the process easier and ensures stiff peaks form properly.

What is the purpose of vinegar in meringue?

Vinegar helps stabilize the egg whites, keeping the meringue firm and giving it a crisp texture.

Can I replace the dark chocolate with another topping?

Absolutely! You can use caramel, fruit puree, white chocolate, or even a dusting of cocoa powder.

Why do my meringues crack?

Cracks can occur if the oven temperature is too high or if they cool too quickly. Let them cool gradually inside the oven with the door slightly open.

Can I make this recipe sugar-free?

You can try sugar substitutes like erythritol, but the texture may vary slightly.

What should I do if my meringue mixture is grainy?

A grainy texture means the sugar has not dissolved completely. Make sure to whisk slowly and allow the sugar to blend smoothly.

How can I toast coconut flakes?

Spread the coconut flakes on a baking sheet and bake at 160°C (320°F) for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown.

Conclusion

Mini Pavlova nests with chocolate and toasted coconut are a delightful dessert that balances light, crisp meringue with rich and creamy toppings. Their elegant presentation makes them ideal for celebrations, and their simple preparation ensures they can be enjoyed any time. With endless topping variations, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a delicate, sweet treat.