Description
To understand this dessert, we must first look at its core: the pavlova. A pavlova is a meringue-based cake named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova. Unlike a traditional hard meringue, which is dry throughout, a pavlova is characterized by a crisp, delicate crust and a soft, moist, almost cake-like interior. This contrast in textures is achieved by the addition of an acid and a starch, which stabilize the egg whites and keep the moisture locked inside the center.
Ingredients
For the Pavlova Nests:
4 large egg whites (room temperature)
1 cup (200g) superfine sugar
1 tsp cornstarch
1 tsp white vinegar or lemon juice
½ tsp rosewater (food-grade)
Pinch of salt
For the Topping:
1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
1–2 tbsp powdered sugar
½ tsp rosewater (adjust to taste)
¼–⅓ cup finely chopped unsalted pistachios
Fresh raspberries or strawberries (optional, but recommended)
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Draw 6 small circles (about 3–4 inches wide) as guides, then flip parchment over.
2️⃣ Make the Meringue
Beat egg whites with salt until soft peaks form.
Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating continuously.
Beat until glossy and stiff peaks form (about 5–7 minutes).
Gently fold in cornstarch, vinegar, and rosewater.
3️⃣ Shape the Nests
Spoon or pipe meringue onto drawn circles.
Create a slight indentation in the center to hold the filling.
4️⃣ Bake
Bake for 60–75 minutes until dry to the touch.
Turn off oven and let pavlovas cool inside with the door slightly ajar (about 1 hour).
This prevents cracking.
5️⃣ Make the Cream
Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
Gently fold in rosewater.
6️⃣ Assemble
Spoon rosewater cream into each nest.
Sprinkle generously with chopped pistachios.
Add berries if desired.
Notes
These Pistachio Rosewater Pavlova Nests are a delicate balance of crisp meringue, soft marshmallow center, and fragrant cream. The rosewater adds a subtle floral touch, while pistachios bring a beautiful crunch — perfect for special gatherings or afternoon tea.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Australian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pavlova nest
- Calories: ~290 kcal
Keywords: Floral Meringue Nests, Rose Pistachio Pavlova, Individual Rosewater Meringues, Middle Eastern Pavlova Recipe