There’s something magical about pavlova—light, crisp meringue with a soft, marshmallow-like center.
These mini pavlovas are filled with creamy coconut custard and topped with toasted coconut for a tropical twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The pavlovas are crisp on the outside yet tender inside, creating the perfect contrast.
The coconut custard is silky, rich, and full of tropical flavor.
They’re beautiful enough for special occasions but simple enough to make at home.
You can customize the toppings with fruit, chocolate, or more coconut.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Egg whites are the foundation for the meringue, giving it structure and volume.
Cream of tartar helps stabilize the meringue.
Sugar makes the meringue glossy and sweet.
Toasted coconut adds a nutty crunch and tropical aroma.
Coconut milk and egg yolks create a smooth custard filling.
Vanilla and coconut extract bring depth and fragrance to both parts of the recipe.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Make sure your mixing bowl and whisk are completely grease-free before whipping egg whites.
Add sugar slowly to help the meringue form stiff, glossy peaks.
Bake low and slow to avoid browning and achieve crisp shells.
Cool pavlovas in the oven for several hours for best texture.
Whisk the custard constantly—thickening happens suddenly.
How to Make Pavlova Minis
Step 1 – Prepare oven and pans
Preheat oven to 200°F (93°C).
Line baking sheets with parchment or silicone mats.
Step 2 – Whip the meringue
Whisk egg whites, cream of tartar, and salt until frothy.
Gradually stream in sugar and beat until glossy with stiff peaks. Add vanilla.
Step 3 – Shape the nests
Fold in remaining sugar gently.
Pipe or spoon nests onto baking sheets, then sprinkle with toasted coconut if desired.
Step 4 – Bake
Bake for 2 hours until dry and crisp.
Leave in the oven 3–4 hours or overnight for best results.
Step 5 – Make the custard
Whisk sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a saucepan.
Slowly add milk, coconut milk, egg yolks, and coconut extract.
Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thick.
Step 6 – Strain and chill
Press custard through a sieve for smoothness.
Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface and refrigerate until cool.
Step 7 – Fill and decorate
Whisk chilled custard until smooth.
Fill each meringue nest with custard, drizzle with melted chocolate, and top with toasted coconut.
What to Serve Them With
Serve with fresh fruit like mango, kiwi, or berries.
Pair with coffee or tea for a delicate afternoon dessert.
Add to a dessert platter alongside truffles and petit fours.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap coconut custard for lemon curd or chocolate mousse.
Top with whipped cream and fresh berries instead of custard.
Make one large pavlova instead of minis for a showstopper centerpiece.
Storage & Leftovers
Store meringue nests in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate filled pavlovas and enjoy within 24 hours.
Leftover custard keeps in the fridge for 2–3 days.
FAQs
Can I make the meringue ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake and store them for several days before filling.
How do I keep the pavlovas from getting soggy?
Only fill them right before serving to keep the meringue crisp.
Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?
Yes, but it may take longer to reach stiff peaks.
Why didn’t my meringue whip properly?
There may have been grease or yolk in the bowl, or sugar was added too quickly.
Can I make the custard without coconut milk?
Yes, you can use whole milk, but the flavor will be less tropical.
What if I don’t have a piping bag?
Spoon meringue onto sheets and shape wells with the back of a spoon.
How do I know when the custard is thick enough?
It should coat the back of a spoon and resemble pudding.
Can I freeze pavlovas?
Unfilled pavlovas freeze well, but filled ones should be eaten fresh.
Do I need to toast the coconut flakes?
It’s optional, but toasting enhances flavor and texture.
Are pavlovas gluten-free?
Yes, both the meringue and custard are naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
These mini pavlovas with coconut custard are light, crisp, and creamy all at once.
They’re a dessert that feels indulgent yet refreshing, perfect for holidays, parties, or simply when you want something elegant at home.
