Air Fryer Mini Pavlovas – Crispy Shell in 18 Minutes

These Air Fryer Mini Pavlovas create restaurant-quality individual desserts with crispy exteriors and marshmallow-soft centers in just 18 minutes. After testing techniques from top food blogs, this method consistently produces perfectly sized nests that are ideal for entertaining and portion control.

Perfect Air Fryer Mini Pavlovas Recipe

The secret to these mini pavlovas lies in the two-stage temperature method that creates the ideal contrast between the crisp shell and tender interior. Unlike traditional oven methods that take hours, air fryer circulation creates the perfect texture in a fraction of the time.

Ingredients

• 3 large egg whites, room temperature
• 3/4 cup (150g) superfine sugar (caster sugar)
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (cornflour)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For serving:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 2 cups mixed fresh berries
• Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions

1. Clean your equipment thoroughly. Wipe mixing bowl and beaters with half a lemon to remove any grease residue that could prevent proper whipping.
2. Whip egg whites to soft peaks. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat egg whites on medium speed until foamy, then increase to high speed until soft peaks form.
3. Add sugar gradually. With mixer running, add superfine sugar one tablespoon at a time, waiting 30 seconds between additions. Beat until mixture holds stiff, glossy peaks and feels smooth when rubbed between fingers.
4. Fold in stabilizers gently. Using a spatula, gently fold in cornstarch, vinegar, and vanilla extract until just combined. Don’t overmix.
5. Prepare air fryer basket. Cut parchment paper to fit your air fryer basket. Lightly spray with cooking oil.
6. Shape mini pavlovas. Spoon mixture into 4-6 individual mounds on parchment, creating small wells in centers with slightly raised edges using the back of a spoon.
7. Air fry using two-stage method. Cook at 250°F (120°C) for 18-20 minutes until tops feel set when gently touched. Turn off air fryer and leave door slightly ajar for 15 minutes to cool gradually.
8. Cool completely before topping. Remove carefully and let cool completely before adding whipped cream and berries.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes
Servings: 4-6 mini pavlovas
Air Fryer Temperature: 250°F (120°C)
Difficulty: Easy

Air Fryer Settings & Tips for Mini Pavlovas

Temperature & Timing Guide

For 3.5-4 quart air fryers: 250°F (120°C) for 18-20 minutes produces perfect results with crispy shells and soft centers.

For 5+ quart air fryers: Same temperature but check at 15 minutes as larger baskets may cook faster due to increased air circulation.

Mini pavlova size guide: Make 3-4 inch diameter bases for individual servings. Smaller 2-inch pavlovas need only 12-15 minutes cooking time.

Internal doneness test: Gently tap the surface – it should feel set and sound hollow when properly cooked.

Pro Tips for Extra Crispy Results

Use superfine sugar exclusively. Regular granulated sugar creates a grainy texture that doesn’t dissolve properly during the short cooking time. Make your own by processing granulated sugar in a food processor for 30 seconds.

Room temperature eggs are non-negotiable. Cold egg whites won’t achieve maximum volume. Take eggs out 2-3 hours before cooking or place whole eggs in warm water for 10 minutes.

Don’t skip the acid. Vinegar or lemon juice stabilizes the meringue structure and prevents collapse during the rapid air fryer cooking process.

Create proper spacing. Leave 2 inches between each mini pavlova to allow air circulation. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking and soggy bottoms.

Avoid opening the air fryer door. Temperature fluctuations cause cracking and collapse. Trust the timing and resist checking until the end.

Serving & Storage for Air Fryer Mini Pavlovas

Best Sauce Pairings

Balsamic roasted strawberries create an elegant contrast. Toss sliced strawberries with balsamic glaze and air fry at 350°F for 5 minutes until slightly caramelized.

Lemon curd adds bright acidity that cuts through the sweetness. Spread a thin layer before adding whipped cream.

Passion fruit pulp provides tropical flavor and beautiful color. Mix with a touch of honey for extra sweetness.

Chocolate ganache drizzle transforms these into decadent dinner party desserts. Use warm ganache for the best draping effect.

Perfect Side Dishes

Air fryer honey-roasted nuts complement the crispy texture. Cook mixed nuts at 350°F for 5-7 minutes with honey and sea salt.

Fresh fruit salad with mint keeps the meal light and refreshing. Combine seasonal berries, kiwi, and mango.

Prosecco or Moscato pairs beautifully with the sweet meringue and enhances the celebration factor.

Storage & Reheating

Store unfilled pavlovas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 48 hours. Never refrigerate unfilled meringue as moisture makes it weepy and soft.

Add toppings just before serving to maintain the crispy shell. Cream and fruit will soften the meringue within 30 minutes.

Rescue soggy pavlovas by placing in air fryer at 200°F for 3-5 minutes to re-crisp the exterior. Cool completely before serving.

For advance prep, make meringue shells up to 2 days ahead. Store in airtight containers with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Conclusion

This air fryer method delivers perfectly crispy mini pavlovas every time. The rapid hot air circulation creates the ideal texture contrast in just 18 minutes, making elegant individual desserts achievable for weeknight entertaining.