Meringue vs. Pavlova — What's the Difference?

Meringue serves as both a dessert on its own and a component in various pastries, characterized by its glossy appearance and crisp texture when baked. It's made by beating egg whites to a froth, gradually adding sugar until stiff peaks form, and then baking at a low temperature to dry out. Meringue can be used to top pies, form cookies, or create layers in desserts. On the other hand, Pavlova takes the basic concept of meringue further by incorporating a bit of vinegar and cornstarch into the egg whites and sugar mixture. This addition helps create Pavlova's unique texture—a crispy outer shell with a soft, marshmallow-like center once baked.

The origin of Pavlova is often debated between Australia and New Zealand, with both countries claiming it was invented in honor of the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova during her tours in the 1920s. Meringue, however, has European roots, with its invention attributed to various countries over centuries. Pavlova is traditionally served with a topping of whipped cream and fresh fruits, such as strawberries, kiwifruit, and passionfruit, making it a refreshing dessert ideal for summer celebrations. Meringue's simplicity allows it to be versatile in its use, from lemon meringue pie to delicate French macarons.

While both desserts rely on the airy lift that beaten egg whites provide, the key differences lie in their texture, components, and how they are served. Meringue's role is more flexible in the culinary world, acting as a dessert base, topping, or component, whereas Pavlova is a distinct dessert celebrated for its contrasting textures and rich topping of cream and fruit.

Meringue's baking technique focuses on thoroughly drying out the mixture to achieve a uniform crispness throughout. Pavlova, by contrast, requires precise baking to ensure the exterior crisps up while the interior remains soft and gooey. This delicate balance gives Pavlova its characteristic texture, setting it apart from other meringue-based desserts.

Despite their differences, both meringue and Pavlova share a lightness and sweetness that make them beloved desserts. Whether enjoying the simple elegance of a meringue cookie or the lush decadence of a Pavlova, both desserts showcase the versatility and delight of whipped egg whites and sugar.