There’s a reason the pavlova is as Australian as Anzac Day – this classic favourite dessert is something Australians seem to have appropriated from the Kiwis. Can you even think of a summer celebration that didn’t involve a pavlova? From poolside birthday parties to family Christmas celebrations, there’s always a crunchy, creamy pavlova to be found, laden with fresh fruit and sweet promise.
A long-running bone of contention, the Christmas dessert was named for Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, who toured the southern hemisphere in the 1920s and visited both countries. Which country owns the recipe has been fiercely contended ever since.
We love this Christmas recipe for its sweet simplicity and versatility as it can be shaped into any form, dressed year-round with the best of seasonal fruit and feeds a hungry crowd of merrymakers.
01
The Perfect Pavlova
Pavlova is the ultimate Christmas dessert, and this beautiful, wreath-shaped recipe deserves a spot right in the centre of the table.
02
White chocolate pavlova
For a fresh take on traditional pavlova that’s twice the fun, stack a pair with lashings of cream and berries, then top with white chocolate and a sprinkle of icing sugar for a brilliant centrepiece.
03
Black forest pavlova
In this recipe, more-ish cherry syrup oozes its way down soft meringue peaks, melding with the rich flavours of dark chocolate and whipped cream to form the most decadnet festive dessert.
More Christmas dessert recipes to try
04
Eton-mess cheesecake
What’s better than a classic pavlova? How about a summer berry pavlova combined with a cheesecake? Yum! This delicious dessert combines the best of both worlds with a biscuity-base and pillow-y meringue topping.
05
Gooey Chocolate Meringues
These gooey meringues are just like a pavlova, only mini and filled with chocolate. The perfect bite-sized treat to serve after dinner with a steaming hot coffee.
06
Gluten-free cherry meringue pie
Cherries are almost synonymous with the Australian Christmas. Make the most of the season’s bounty by baking a delectable cherry pie topped with gorgeous meringue tufts.
