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Low-Calorie Summer Berry Pavlova with Coconut Whipped Cream Recipe

By Beginnerbakes Test KitchenReviewed by Beginnerbakes Editorial TeamPublished Apr 12, 2026 · Updated Jul 11, 2026
Australian 95 mins beginner-friendlyeasystep-by-steplow-caloriesummer-bakingfresh fruithealthy bakingno-fuss dessertparty dessertdairy-free frosting

A beginner-friendly pavlova with a crisp meringue shell, soft center, coconut whipped cream, and fresh summer berries.

Low-Calorie Summer Berry Pavlova with Coconut Whipped Cream Recipe
Prep 20 min
Cook 75 min
Total 95 min
Servings 6
Difficulty easy
Cuisine Australian

Recipe Details

Prep20 min
Cook75 min
Total95 min
Servings6
Difficultyeasy
CuisineAustralian
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Ingredients

Servings 6
  • 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup canned coconut cream (chilled overnight)
  • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for coconut whipped cream)
  • 1 cup mixed fresh summer berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
  • Optional
  • fresh mint leaves for garnish
BeginnerBakes summer berry pavlova ingredients
BeginnerBakes summer berry pavlova ingredients

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 250 degrees F (120 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Draw a 7-inch (18 cm) circle on the parchment paper as a guide for shaping your pavlova base, then flip the paper over so the pencil side is underneath.
  3. In a large clean bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
  4. Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating well after each addition until the meringue is glossy and stiff peaks form.
  5. Gently fold in the white vinegar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract with a spatula. This stabilizes the meringue and creates a marshmallow-like interior.
  6. Spoon the meringue onto the prepared circle on the parchment paper. Shape it into a round with slightly higher edges to hold the toppings.
  7. Bake the pavlova in the preheated oven for about 1 hour 15 minutes until the outside is crisp to the touch.
  8. Turn off the oven and allow the pavlova to cool inside with the door slightly open for about 1 hour to prevent cracking.
  9. While the pavlova cools, prepare the coconut whipped cream. Scoop the solid part of the chilled coconut cream into a bowl, leaving behind any liquid.
  10. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the coconut cream, then whip with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Keep refrigerated until ready to use.
  11. Once the pavlova is completely cool, carefully transfer it to a serving plate.
  12. Spread the whipped coconut cream evenly over the pavlova base.
  13. Top generously with the mixed fresh summer berries and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
  14. Serve immediately for the best texture and freshness.
Low-Calorie Summer Berry Pavlova with Coconut Whipped Cream Recipe
Low-Calorie Summer Berry Pavlova with Coconut Whipped Cream Recipe

Tips

Equipment Needed

Use the pan or baking dish listed in the recipe, plus mixing bowls, measuring tools, a spatula, and a cooling rack if the recipe bakes in the oven. Line pans with parchment or liners when the batter is delicate so beginners can release the bake cleanly.

Ingredient Prep Notes

Measure the dry and wet ingredients before mixing so the batter or dough comes together smoothly. Keep butter, eggs, dairy, fruit, or chocolate at the temperature described in the recipe because small prep details affect rise and texture.

Oven Note

Preheat fully before baking and use the center rack unless the recipe says otherwise. Start checking near the low end of the baking time and rely on the listed doneness cues instead of color alone.

Easy Upgrade Ideas

Keep upgrades simple: add a light glaze, a sprinkle of spice, citrus zest, chopped nuts, chocolate, or a beginner-friendly topping that matches the base flavor. Add decorative finishes only after the bake cools when frosting, glaze, or drizzle needs to set neatly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Low-Calorie Summer Berry Pavlova with Coconut Whipped Cream Recipe ahead?
Yes. Bake it ahead, cool it fully, and store it as directed so the texture stays as close to fresh as possible.
How do I know when it is done?
Use the timing as a guide, then check the center with the recipe's doneness cue, such as a clean toothpick, set edges, bubbling filling, or a gently springy top.
Can I change the flavor?
Yes. Keep changes small the first time, such as adding citrus zest, spice, chocolate, nuts, or a simple glaze that matches the recipe.
What should beginners watch most closely?
Measure carefully, avoid overmixing batters or doughs, and let the bake cool long enough before slicing, glazing, or storing.

Ingredient Replacements

  • egg whites: Use a tested egg replacer only when the recipe can tolerate a slightly softer crumb.
  • (100 g) granulated sugar: Swap with a similar sweetener in small adjustments because liquid sweeteners can change browning and moisture.
  • white vinegar: Use a similar baking ingredient and adjust moisture gradually so the batter or dough keeps the same texture.
  • cornstarch: Use a similar baking ingredient and adjust moisture gradually so the batter or dough keeps the same texture.
  • vanilla extract: Use a similar baking ingredient and adjust moisture gradually so the batter or dough keeps the same texture.

Storage and Reheating

Cool leftovers before storing. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze when the ingredients are freezer-friendly.

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