Strawberry, Cardamom and Pistachio Pavlova Bites

Strawberry, cardamom and pistachio pavlova bites are elegant, bite-sized desserts that combine the crisp shell and marshmallow-soft center of classic pavlova with aromatic cardamom, juicy strawberries, and crunchy pistachios. These delicate treats are a delightful fusion of texture and flavor, offering a light yet satisfying finish to any meal. With their crisp outer layer, soft interiors, creamy topping, and fresh fruit garnish, pavlova bites deliver a perfect harmony of sweetness, spice, and freshness—all in a beautiful, handheld form.

These miniature pavlovas are ideal for celebrations, tea parties, and gatherings where individual portions are preferred. The cardamom adds a fragrant, floral warmth that balances the sweetness of the meringue and cream, while pistachios bring a nutty crunch and vibrant color. Topped with sliced strawberries, they not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any dessert table. Easy to prepare and assemble, these pavlova bites make a lasting impression with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A unique combination of sweet meringue, fragrant cardamom, fresh strawberries, and crunchy pistachios

• Light, airy texture with a crisp shell and soft, marshmallow-like center

• Bite-sized portions make them perfect for parties, afternoon tea, or elegant dessert platters

• Naturally gluten-free and made with simple pantry ingredients

• Cardamom adds a subtle warmth and floral note that enhances the overall flavor

• Beautiful presentation with vibrant strawberries and crushed pistachios as toppings

• Can be made ahead and assembled just before serving

• Easily adaptable with other fruits or flavored creams for variety

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 25 minutes

• Cook time: 1 hour 15 minutes

• Cooling time: 1 hour

• Total time: 2 hours 40 minutes

• Yield: 24 pavlova bites

• Serving Size: 2 bites

Nutritional Information (per serving – 2 bites)

• Calories: 150 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Protein: 2g

• Fat: 7g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 16g

Ingredients

Pavlova Meringue

• 4 large egg whites (room temperature)

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• ½ teaspoon cream of tartar or 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• ½ teaspoon ground cardamom

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Topping

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

• ¼ cup crushed pistachios (unsalted, shelled)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat oven to 225°F (110°C)

• Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats

• Use a pencil to trace small circles (2–3 inches wide) on parchment to guide meringue placement

• Flip the parchment so the pencil marks are underneath

2. Whip the Meringue

• In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites and salt on medium speed until soft peaks form

• Add cream of tartar or lemon juice and continue beating

• Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating until glossy stiff peaks form

• Add vanilla extract and ground cardamom, mixing gently until combined

3. Pipe and Bake

• Transfer meringue to a piping bag with a large round or star tip

• Pipe mounds onto the prepared circles, forming small nests with a slight indentation in the center

• Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes or until meringues are dry and crisp on the outside

• Turn off the oven and let meringues cool inside the oven with the door slightly open

4. Prepare the Whipped Cream

• In a chilled bowl, whip the cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form

• Keep chilled until ready to assemble

5. Assemble the Pavlova Bites

• Once meringues are fully cooled, top each one with a spoonful of whipped cream

• Add a slice or two of fresh strawberry on top

• Sprinkle with crushed pistachios just before serving

Ingredient Background

Meringue is the heart of pavlova and is made simply with whipped egg whites and sugar. The addition of cream of tartar or lemon juice helps stabilize the egg whites, allowing them to reach maximum volume. Cardamom is a spice with a sweet, floral, and slightly citrusy flavor that complements the natural sweetness of meringue and fruit. Fresh strawberries bring brightness and a slight tartness to the dish, while pistachios add crunch, color, and a nutty flavor that rounds out the dessert beautifully. Whipped cream provides a creamy contrast to the crisp meringue, tying all elements together in each bite.

Technique Tips

• Make sure the mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of grease before whipping egg whites

• Add sugar slowly to ensure it dissolves fully for a smooth meringue texture

• Stiff peaks should stand upright and not collapse when the beaters are lifted

• Use low oven heat and slow cooling to prevent cracking and maintain crispness

• Do not over-whip cream—it should be smooth and hold shape, not grainy

• Assemble pavlovas just before serving to keep the meringue crisp

• Store meringue bases in an airtight container at room temperature until ready to top

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Pipe meringue into heart or flower shapes for themed events or celebrations

• Use colored meringue by adding a touch of natural food coloring before piping

• Serve on individual dessert plates with extra sauce drizzle or edible flowers

• Create a pavlova platter with multiple flavors of whipped cream and fruit toppings

• Arrange on tiered dessert stands for a visually striking dessert display

• Serve with a small spoon of strawberry compote instead of fresh fruit for extra moisture

Additional Tips for Success

• Use room temperature egg whites for better volume and stability

• Don’t skip the parchment paper—this ensures easy removal after baking

• Avoid making pavlova on humid days as moisture affects the meringue texture

• Keep meringue nests small to ensure even baking and prevent collapsing

• If pistachios are salted, rinse and dry them to avoid overpowering sweetness

• Use a serrated knife to gently slice strawberries into thin pieces for better presentation

• Serve immediately after assembly to enjoy the full contrast of textures

Recipe Variations

• Add lemon or orange zest to the meringue for a citrus twist

• Mix rosewater or orange blossom water into the whipped cream for floral notes

• Use raspberries, blueberries, or mango slices instead of strawberries

• Add cocoa powder to the meringue for a chocolate version

• Sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes instead of pistachios for a tropical variation

• Pipe smaller meringue kisses for mini versions suitable for party platters

• Make a large pavlova base and decorate with cardamom cream, strawberries, and pistachios for a family-style dessert

Freezing and Storage

• Meringue bases can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days

• Keep them away from humidity and direct sunlight to maintain crispness

• Whipped cream and toppings should be added just before serving

• Assembled pavlovas do not store well and should be eaten fresh

• Do not freeze meringue bases, as texture changes significantly after thawing

• Leftover whipped cream can be stored in the fridge for 1–2 days

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use coconut cream instead of whipped cream for a dairy-free version

• Reduce sugar in the meringue slightly for a less sweet option

• Add fresh mint leaves for an herbal element without added calories

• Replace powdered sugar in cream with a small amount of honey or maple syrup

• Use unsweetened plant-based cream for a lower-fat alternative

• Top with extra fresh fruit instead of whipped cream for a lighter bite

• Sprinkle with flaxseed or chia seeds for an extra boost of nutrients

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Perfect for high tea or afternoon dessert platters

• Ideal for baby showers, bridal showers, or garden parties

• Serve on decorative platters with edible flowers for spring or summer themes

• Include as part of a mixed dessert buffet with tarts, cakes, and cookies

• Add a cardamom-infused drink like chai or herbal tea as a complementary pairing

• Create DIY pavlova bars where guests choose their own toppings and cream flavors

• Pack individually in mini cupcake holders for a stylish takeaway favor

Special Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer for whipping egg whites and cream

• Piping bags with star or round tips for shaping meringue nests

• Mixing bowls (preferably metal or glass) for whipping meringue

• Baking sheets and parchment paper or silicone mats

• Fine grater or zester for cardamom and optional citrus

• Serving platter or cake stand for presentation

• Airtight containers for storing meringue bases

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why did my meringue collapse?

• Overbeating or baking at too high a temperature can cause collapse—keep oven low and beat to just stiff peaks

2. Can I make the meringue in advance?

• Yes, prepare and store the meringue bases for up to 5 days in an airtight container

3. What if I don’t have cardamom?

• You can skip it or substitute with cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for a warm note

4. Can I make this dessert dairy-free?

• Yes, use coconut whipped cream or plant-based alternatives for topping

5. How can I tell when the meringue is done?

• It should lift easily from parchment and sound hollow when tapped gently underneath

6. Can I double the recipe?

• Yes, scale all ingredients evenly and use multiple baking sheets if needed

7. How do I prevent the meringue from cracking?

• Bake at low temperature and let it cool gradually in the oven

8. Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?

• Yes, try almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans—just ensure they are finely chopped

Conclusion

Strawberry, cardamom and pistachio pavlova bites are a delicate, elegant dessert that celebrates both texture and flavor. With their crisp shells, soft centers, spiced creaminess, and fruity freshness, these treats offer a unique and memorable ending to any meal. They are simple to make yet impressive in presentation, making them a perfect addition to both casual gatherings and formal events.

The harmony between the sweet meringue, fragrant cardamom, and juicy strawberries ensures every bite is balanced and satisfying. Whether you’re planning an event or simply looking for a creative dessert to enjoy at home, these pavlova bites are a beautiful way to elevate your baking with flavor, color, and charm.

Strawberry, Cardamom and Pistachio Pavlova Bites

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• Author: Louise
• Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
• Yield: 24 pavlova bites 1x

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pavlova Meringue

• 4 large egg whites (room temperature)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon cream of tartar or 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Topping

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• ¼ cup crushed pistachios (unsalted, shelled)

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat oven to 225°F (110°C)

• Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats

• Use a pencil to trace small circles (2–3 inches wide) on parchment to guide meringue placement

• Flip the parchment so the pencil marks are underneath

2. Whip the Meringue

• In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites and salt on medium speed until soft peaks form

• Add cream of tartar or lemon juice and continue beating

• Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating until glossy stiff peaks form

• Add vanilla extract and ground cardamom, mixing gently until combined

3. Pipe and Bake

• Transfer meringue to a piping bag with a large round or star tip

• Pipe mounds onto the prepared circles, forming small nests with a slight indentation in the center

• Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes or until meringues are dry and crisp on the outside

• Turn off the oven and let meringues cool inside the oven with the door slightly open

4. Prepare the Whipped Cream

• In a chilled bowl, whip the cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form

• Keep chilled until ready to assemble

5. Assemble the Pavlova Bites

• Once meringues are fully cooled, top each one with a spoonful of whipped cream

• Add a slice or two of fresh strawberry on top

• Sprinkle with crushed pistachios just before serving

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cooling Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 bites
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 16g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g