Pavlova is a classic meringue-based dessert that originated in Australia and New Zealand. It features a light, crispy crust with a soft, marshmallow-like center and is typically topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. While best served fresh, pavlova can also be frozen for later enjoyment. Here are some tips for successfully freezing and storing pavlova.
Can you freeze pavlova?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze pavlova! The meringue shell freezes quite well. The only part that does not freeze well is the whipped cream topping. The fruit topping also does not freeze perfectly but freezing the pavlova base allows you to top it later.
What is the best way to freeze pavlova?
Follow these steps for freezing pavlova:
- Start by making the meringue shell according to your favorite recipe. Allow it to cool completely first before freezing.
- Wrap the cooled pavlova tightly in a layer of plastic wrap. Make sure the plastic wrap adheres directly to the surface of the meringue.
- Place the wrapped pavlova in an airtight freezer bag or container. Squeeze out excess air before sealing.
- Label the bag or container with the contents and freeze-by date.
- Freeze the pavlova for up to 2 months.
Wrapping the pavlova thoroughly before freezing prevents freezer burn. An airtight container stops ice crystals forming on the dessert.
Can you freeze uncooked pavlova?
It is not recommended to freeze uncooked pavlova meringue. The freezing process will cause the air bubbles in the uncooked meringue to expand and rupture. This can make the pavlova crust dense or collapse during baking.
For best results, always fully bake and cool your pavlova base before freezing.
How do you thaw frozen pavlova?
Thawing a frozen pavlova is simple:
- Remove the frozen pavlova from freezer and unwrap.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Leave at room temperature for 1-2 hours to thaw completely. The Pavlova should still feel very cold in the center when touched.
- Re-wrap in plastic and return to the freezer if not using thawed pavlova right away.
Do not try to accelerate the thawing by microwaving or warming the oven. Let the pavlova thaw slowly at room temperature.
How do you store thawed pavlova?
A thawed pavlova should be stored in the fridge and used within 24 hours. To store:
- Re-wrap pavlova tightly in plastic wrap once thawed.
- Place in an airtight container or bag.
- Refrigerate for up to 1 day.
The crispness of the crust may suffer slightly after freezing and thawing. But the marshmallow center should remain perfect.
Can you re-freeze thawed pavlova?
It is best not to refreeze a thawed pavlova. The texture will deteriorate and weep liquid. Discard any unused thawed pavlova after 24 hours refrigeration.
For best quality, thaw only the amount needed and freeze the remaining portions. Refreeze thawed pavlova only if it has been kept chilled and used within a day or two at most.
What’s the best way to serve thawed pavlova?
To serve thawed pavlova:
- Whip cream until stiff peaks form and spoon over pavlova just before serving.
- Top with fresh fruit like kiwi, strawberries, passionfruit, and pineapple.
- Slice with a serrated knife to avoid cracking the crust.
- Serve immediately while the contrast of crispy shell and soft topping remains.
The whipped cream and fruit topping should be fresh, not frozen. For added crunch, you can sprinkle nuts, grated chocolate or crushed candy over the topped dessert.
Pavlova Freezing Tips
Follow these tips for best results freezing pavlova:
- Fully bake and cool pavlova before freezing.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
- Store in airtight bags or containers.
- Label with contents and freeze-by date.
- Thaw in fridge overnight before decorating with fresh toppings.
- Consume thawed pavlova within 24 hours.
- Avoid re-freezing after thawing.
Common Freezing Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about freezing pavlova:
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can you freeze pavlova with cream? | No, whipped cream does not freeze well. Only freeze plain pavlova base. |
| Can you freeze pavlova shells in advance? | Yes, baked pavlova shells freeze very well for up to 2 months. |
| Does pavlova get soggy after freezing? | It may lose some crispness but won’t get soggy if thawed properly. |
| Can you freeze pavlova after topping? | No, topped pavlova with fruit and cream does not freeze solidly. |
Pavlova Storage Chart
Use this chart as a quick guide for pavlova storage:
| Stage | Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Uncooked meringue | Refrigerate in airtight container | 2-3 days |
| Baked pavlova base | Room temperature in airtight container | Up to 1 week |
| Baked and frozen | Freezer bag or airtight container | 2-3 months |
| Thawed | Refrigerate, tightly wrapped | 24 hours |
| Topped | Refrigerate if not serving immediately | 6-8 hours |
Conclusion
Freezing is a great way to prepare pavlova in advance for later use. Follow the recommendations above to successfully freeze bake pavlova bases and thaw them while retaining a lovely, crisp shell. Top with freshly whipped cream and fruit just before serving the thawed pavlova for best results. With proper freezing and thawing methods, you can enjoy delicious pavlova on demand.