Name: Decadent Chocolate Pavlova with Irresistible Salted Caramel Sauce
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 210 min
Ingredients: 6 large Egg Whites (Use room temperature for better whipping); 1.75 cups Sugar (Divided for meringue and finishing); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (Helps stabilize the meringue); 1 teaspoon White Vinegar (Aids in stabilizing the meringue); 4 ounces Dark Chocolate (Must be melted and cooled before mixing); 1 cup Whipping Cream (Can use coconut cream for dairy-free); 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (Enhances sweetness of caramel sauce); 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Necessary for silky caramel sauce); 1/2 cup Honey-roasted Peanuts (Optional for crunch); 1 cup Sugar (Caramelizes for rich base); 1/2 cup Cream (Adds richness to the sauce)

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As the delicate aroma of freshly baked meringue wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a rush of excitement. Today, I’m crafting an Easy Chocolate Pavlova with Salted Caramel Sauce, a dessert that’s not just a feast for the eyes but a heavenly experience for the palate. This gluten-free indulgence features a crisp exterior with a luscious, soft center that will impress at any gathering. One of the best parts? It’s a make-ahead treat, perfect for those busy holiday celebrations or cozy dinner parties. And who could resist the allure of a silky salted caramel drizzled over rich chocolate meringue? Curiosity piqued? Let’s dive into the delicious world of pavlova!

Why is Chocolate Pavlova So Irresistible?

Decadent Experience: This dessert isn’t just visually stunning; it combines a crispy meringue shell with a marshmallow-like center, making every bite a delightful experience. The velvety salted caramel adds a luxurious touch that’s sure to impress!

Gluten-Free Delight: Perfect for gluten-sensitive guests, this recipe lets everyone indulge without worry, similar to the delightful experiences of a Double Chocolate Chip Cookie or a Mint Chocolate Chip treat.

Flexible Flavors: Feel free to customize this pavlova by switching up the chocolate or topping options, opening the door to endless variations—try a Chocolate Zucchini Bread twist for a fun take!

Make Ahead: Prep the meringue and caramel a day in advance to simplify your celebrations, ensuring you spend more time enjoying your company and less time in the kitchen. You won’t find a more satisfying dessert!

Chocolate Pavlova Ingredients

For the Meringue
• Egg Whites – Essential for structure; use room temperature for better whipping.
• Sugar – Divided into 1¾ cups for meringue sweetness and stability, and ¼ cup for the finish.
• Cornstarch – Helps stabilize the meringue, preventing weeping during baking.
• White Vinegar – A touch of acidity that aids in stabilizing the meringue.
• Dark Chocolate – Must be melted and cooled before mixing in to add a rich flavor.

For the Topping
• Whipping Cream – Adds creaminess on top; consider coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
• Sea Salt – Enhances the sweetness of the salted caramel sauce.
• Unsalted Butter – Necessary for a silky smooth caramel sauce.
• Honey-roasted Peanuts – Optional, but they provide a delightful crunch and flavor contrast.

For the Salted Caramel Sauce
• Sugar – Caramelizes to create a rich, golden base of deliciousness.
• Cream – Adds richness and balance to the caramel sauce; don’t skip this ingredient!

Indulge in this delightful Chocolate Pavlova with Salted Caramel Sauce that’s sure to amaze your guests!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Chocolate Pavlova with Salted Caramel Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 212°F (100°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking trays with parchment paper, ensuring they are flat and smooth. This is essential for creating the meringue layers that will form the base of your Chocolate Pavlova with Salted Caramel Sauce.

Step 2: Start the Meringue
In a stand mixer bowl, add the room-temperature egg whites. Begin whipping them on medium speed until small bubbles form, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes. Gradually sprinkle in 1¾ cups of sugar, allowing it to dissolve fully for a stable meringue. Continue to whip until the mixture becomes glossy and holds soft peaks.

Step 3: Stabilize the Meringue
Increase the mixer speed to high and slowly add the cornstarch and white vinegar. These ingredients will help stabilize your meringue, preventing it from weeping during baking. Whip the mixture until it reaches stiff peaks, which should take about 2-4 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the meringue is glossy and stands tall without drooping.

Step 4: Incorporate the Chocolate
Now, gently drizzle the melted and cooled dark chocolate into the stiff meringue. Use a spatula to fold the chocolate in carefully, ensuring you maintain the volume of the meringue and create beautiful swirls throughout. This step is crucial for the rich flavor of your Chocolate Pavlova, so take your time!

Step 5: Shape the Meringues
Spoon the chocolate meringue mixture evenly onto the prepared trays, creating 6-8 mounds depending on your preferred serving size. Using the back of a spoon, create a slight indentation in the center of each mound, which will hold your toppings after baking.

Step 6: Bake the Meringues
Place the trays in the preheated oven and bake the meringues for approximately 2 hours. They should appear dry and easily lift off the parchment paper when done. Avoid opening the oven door during baking as this can cause your pavlova to collapse.

Step 7: Prepare the Salted Caramel Sauce
While the meringues cool, assemble the salted caramel sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly until it turns golden brown. Once achieved, carefully add the unsalted butter and whipping cream, stirring until well combined. Remove from heat and sprinkle in a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavor.

Step 8: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the remaining cream until it forms soft peaks. This luscious topping will create a creamy contrast to the crispy meringue and rich chocolate flavor. Avoid overwhipping; the cream should be smooth and dollop over the pavlova beautifully.

Step 9: Assemble the Pavlovas
To assemble your decadent Chocolate Pavlova with Salted Caramel Sauce, place the meringues on serving plates. Dollop the whipped cream generously on top of each meringue. Drizzle the warm salted caramel sauce over the cream, letting it cascade down the sides for a stunning presentation.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Optionally, sprinkle honey-roasted peanuts on top of each pavlova for added texture and delicious crunch. Serve immediately for the best experience, allowing your guests to marvel at the beautiful layers before indulging in this delightful dessert!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Chocolate Pavlovas with Salted Caramel Sauce are perfect for meal prep! You can create the meringues up to 3 days ahead and store them in an airtight container to keep them crisp. Additionally, the salted caramel sauce can be made 1 day in advance—just refrigerate it and gently warm before serving to regain its luscious consistency. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply whip the cream and dollop it over the pavlovas, then drizzle the warm caramel sauce on top for an indulgent finish. This way, you can savor the deliciousness of homemade dessert with minimal effort, allowing more time to enjoy your gatherings!

What to Serve with Easy Chocolate Pavlova with Salted Caramel Sauce

Indulging in a slice of chocolate pavlova with salted caramel is a moment best shared, and pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience to divine heights.

Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries cuts through the richness, providing a refreshing contrast to the sweet pavlova.
Espresso or Coffee: The bold flavors of coffee complement the chocolate so beautifully, making it the perfect post-dinner pick-me-up. Sip while indulging!
Whipped Cream: An additional dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream enhances the creamy experience and adds an extra layer of decadence without overpowering the pavlova.
Chocolate Shavings: For a chocolate lover’s dream, sprinkle dark or white chocolate shavings on top. It adds an appealing visual and deepens the chocolatey vibe, granting every bite an elegant touch.
Mint Leaves: A few fresh mint leaves not only enhance the presentation but also infuse a refreshing herbal note that can lighten the dish’s lusciousness.
Hazelnut Gelato: The nutty creaminess works wonders with the pavlova, offering a lovely combination of flavors and textures that feel sophisticated and comforting.
Salted Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Serve additional warm salted caramel alongside for those who want an extra boost of indulgence, enhancing the experience with even more sweet delight.
Sparkling Wine: A glass of sparkling wine or prosecco can bring a celebratory flair to your dessert, balancing the sweetness and making your gathering feel truly special.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: A decadent side treat that plays on the chocolate theme while adding a fresh and fruity twist—perfect for a chocolate lover!
Almond Biscotti: This crunchy cookie pairs deliciously with the soft textures of the pavlova, giving your guests something to nibble on while they enjoy their dessert.

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Pavlova with Salted Caramel Sauce

Fridge: Store assembled pavlovas in the fridge for up to 2 hours. If storing longer, keep the meringue and whipped cream separate to prevent sogginess.

Freezer: Meringues can be frozen for up to 1 month. Place them in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Reheating: When ready to use frozen meringues, thaw them in the fridge for a few hours. For the best texture, do not reheat; serve at room temperature.

Storage of Caramel Sauce: Salted caramel sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to one week. Gently reheat in a saucepan or microwave before drizzling over your Chocolate Pavlova.

Expert Tips for Chocolate Pavlova

Clean Equipment: Ensure all bowls and utensils are completely clean and dry. Any grease can prevent egg whites from whipping up properly.

Room Temperature Egg Whites: Use egg whites at room temperature for better volume. Chill them briefly in warm water if needed.

Gentle Folding: When incorporating chocolate into the meringue, gently fold to maintain the airiness. Overmixing can deflate the meringue, affecting your Chocolate Pavlova’s texture.

Cooling Time: Allow meringues to cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks.

Assemble Just Before Serving: For the best experience, assemble your Chocolate Pavlova with Salted Caramel Sauce just before guests arrive to maintain crispness.

Storing Meringues: Store leftover meringues in an airtight container to maintain crunch for up to 2 days.

Chocolate Pavlova with Salted Caramel Sauce Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine with this recipe and customize it to your taste!

White Chocolate: Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate for a sweeter, creamy twist; it complements the salted caramel beautifully.
Vegan Option: Substitute the whipping cream with coconut cream and use aquafaba instead of egg whites for a delightful plant-based version. It’s surprisingly effective and retains all the deliciousness!
Nut-Free: Replace honey-roasted peanuts with crushed cookies or omit entirely for a nut-free treat that’s equally delightful.
Zesty Upgrade: Add a touch of orange or lemon zest into the whipped cream to brighten the flavors and create a refreshing citrus contrast.
Chocolate Drizzle: For added decadence, drizzle extra melted chocolate on top of your pavlova, enhancing its rich flavor and presentation.
Coffee Infusion: Stir in a teaspoon of instant coffee granules into your whipping cream for a mocha-like flavor that pairs wonderfully with chocolate.
Berries Galore: Top with a medley of fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, to balance the sweetness with tartness and create a stunning presentation.
Spiced Flavor: Mix a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the caramel sauce for a warm, spiced note that adds an inviting depth to your dessert.

Don’t forget to check out other delightful chocolate creations like our Double Chocolate Chip Cookies or a rich Chocolate Croissant Bake for more sweet inspirations!

Chocolate Pavlova with Salted Caramel Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right egg whites for meringue?
Absolutely! For the best results, select fresh eggs and ensure they’re at room temperature before whipping. This is key as room temperature egg whites whip up to a greater volume, creating a fluffier pavlova. Check for any visible signs of aging, like cloudy whites or off-odors, to ensure freshness.

What is the best way to store leftover chocolate pavlova?
For maximum freshness, store assembled pavlovas in the fridge for up to 2 hours. If you have leftovers beyond that, keep the meringue and whipped cream separate in airtight containers. This prevents sogginess and maintains texture. The meringue is best enjoyed fresh!

Can I freeze chocolate pavlova meringues?
Absolutely! You can freeze the meringues for up to 1 month. To do this, layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them gradually in the fridge for a few hours. Avoid reheating to maintain their light, crispy texture.

What should I do if my meringue is too runny?
No worries, this can happen! If your meringue is too runny, it’s often due to insufficient whipping or moisture in your mixing bowl. Ensure your equipment is completely clean and dry, and whip the egg whites until they’ve reached stiff peaks. If your meringue has already been baked but doesn’t hold its shape, it may be best to use it as a base for a parfait or trifle.

Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Yes, while this chocolate pavlova is inherently gluten-free, be cautious with substitutions. If you’re serving guests with dairy allergies, opt for coconut cream as a whipped topping and ensure all chocolate is dairy-free. Always double-check ingredient labels for potential allergens to ensure a safe dessert experience for everyone.