Guide to Making Pavlova in the Air Fryer

The air fryer is quickly becoming one of the most popular kitchen appliances due to its ability to create crispy, delicious dishes with less oil and faster cooking times. But did you know you can also use your air fryer to make desserts? One of the best holiday-inspired desserts you can make in an air fryer is the keto Pavlova. This delicious, light, and crispy dessert is not only keto-friendly but also a perfect treat for those who are watching their sugar intake.

Pavlova is a classic dessert that originated in Australia and New Zealand and is made primarily of meringue, whipped cream, and fresh fruit. The crispy outer shell of the meringue contrasts beautifully with the soft, marshmallow-like center, making it a delightful treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. However, traditional Pavlova recipes are typically loaded with sugar, which is not ideal for those following a keto or low-carb diet. Thankfully, with the right ingredients, you can easily make a keto version of this famous dessert, and your air fryer can help you get the perfect result with minimal effort.

What Makes Pavlova Perfect for the Holidays?

Pavlova is often associated with festive occasions such as Christmas and New Year’s, as its light, airy texture and vibrant toppings make it an ideal dessert for special celebrations. In addition to being incredibly visually appealing, the balance between the sweet meringue and the creamy whipped topping makes it a crowd-pleaser. While it is traditionally topped with fresh berries, you can get creative and top it with your favorite seasonal fruits, such as pomegranates or kiwi slices.

For those on a keto diet, the holiday season can be a challenging time to navigate when it comes to desserts. Many traditional holiday sweets are packed with sugar and carbs, which can derail your keto lifestyle. This keto Pavlova recipe, however, allows you to enjoy a festive dessert without the guilt. By substituting traditional sugar with keto-friendly sweeteners like Allulose, you can create a delicious, low-carb version that fits within your macros and keeps your taste buds satisfied.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Keto Pavlova?

One of the most significant benefits of using an air fryer to bake your keto Pavlova is the efficiency and ease it brings to the process. Traditionally, Pavlova is baked in an oven at a low temperature, which can take a considerable amount of time. The air fryer, on the other hand, cooks the meringue faster due to its compact design and circulating hot air. The result is a perfectly crispy exterior with a soft, marshmallowy center that is the hallmark of a perfect Pavlova.

Using an air fryer to bake your Pavlova also ensures even cooking. The air circulation in the fryer eliminates the need to rotate your dish halfway through the baking process, which is often required in a conventional oven. The result is a uniformly cooked meringue shell that holds its shape and texture. Moreover, using the air fryer eliminates the need for preheating, making this a quick and hassle-free dessert to prepare.

Key Ingredients for Keto Pavlova

Let’s take a look at the ingredients that make this keto Pavlova both delicious and low-carb.

1. Egg Whites

Egg whites are the foundation of any meringue-based dessert, including Pavlova. They are whipped into stiff peaks to create the light, airy texture that defines the dessert. They provide the structure necessary for the meringue to maintain its shape once baked.

2. Cream of Tartar or Apple Cider Vinegar

Cream of tartar is commonly used when making meringue to stabilize the egg whites, preventing them from deflating while being whipped. If you don’t have cream of tartar, apple cider vinegar is a great alternative. Both ingredients help to achieve that stiff peak consistency needed for perfect meringue.

3. Powdered Allulose

Allulose is a keto-friendly sweetener that behaves similarly to sugar but with little to no impact on blood sugar levels. It has a mild sweetness, which makes it an ideal substitute for traditional sugar in keto desserts. Powdered Allulose, specifically, is used in this recipe to sweeten the meringue without compromising texture or flavor.

4. Heavy Whipping Cream

Heavy whipping cream is essential for making the rich, creamy topping that goes on your Pavlova. Whipped cream adds both texture and flavor, providing the perfect contrast to the crisp meringue. Be sure to use heavy cream rather than lighter alternatives for the best results.

5. Sugar-Free Vanilla Extract

Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the Pavlova and complements the sweetness of the meringue and whipped cream. Opt for a sugar-free version to keep the dessert completely low-carb while maintaining the rich, aromatic flavor of vanilla.

6. Berries (Strawberries, Raspberries, Blackberries, or Blueberries)

Fresh berries are the traditional topping for Pavlova and offer a refreshing burst of natural sweetness. Berries like strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries are naturally low in carbs and perfect for this keto version. The tangy flavor of the berries pairs wonderfully with the sweet meringue and creamy topping, making for a light and satisfying dessert.

7. Other Optional Toppings

While berries are the classic choice, you can get creative with your toppings! Consider adding a few mint leaves for a pop of color and a refreshing flavor or even a drizzle of sugar-free chocolate syrup for extra decadence.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Keto Pavlova

Preparing the Egg Whites

The key to making a successful meringue is properly beating the egg whites. Start by cracking two large eggs and separating the egg whites from the yolks. Make sure the bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of any grease, as even a small amount of fat can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly.

Start by beating the egg whites on medium-low speed until they become foamy. This should take about 2 minutes. Once the egg whites are foamy, add either cream of tartar or apple cider vinegar. This step helps stabilize the egg whites and allows them to reach the stiff peak stage.

Slowly add powdered Allulose, a tablespoon at a time, as you continue to beat the egg whites. This will help create a glossy, stiff peak meringue that holds its shape. The goal is to achieve a smooth, firm texture that holds its shape when lifted with a spoon or spatula.

Shaping the Pavlova in the Air Fryer

Once the meringue is ready, line the air fryer basket with parchment paper. This ensures that the Pavlova will not stick to the surface and will be easy to remove once baked. Spoon the meringue mixture onto the parchment paper, shaping it into a round form. Be sure to leave at least 1 inch of space around the edges to allow the meringue to expand as it bakes.

Use a spoon or spatula to create a slight indentation in the center of the meringue, forming a nest shape. This indentation will later hold the whipped cream and berries once the Pavlova is assembled.

Baking the Pavlova

Set the air fryer to 120°C (250°F) and bake the meringue for 40 minutes. During the cooking process, check once or twice to ensure it is cooking evenly. Once the meringue has turned a light golden color and is firm to the touch, remove it from the air fryer and allow it to cool completely before handling.

Whipping the Cream

While the meringue cools, whip the heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered Allulose and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Continue whipping until the cream forms stiff peaks and is thick and creamy.

Assembling the Pavlova

Once the meringue has cooled, carefully transfer it to a serving platter. Spoon the whipped cream into the center of the meringue nest, and top with a generous amount of fresh berries. You can also garnish with mint leaves for added freshness.

Storing and Serving

Pavlova is best served immediately, but you can store the assembled dessert in the fridge for up to a day. If you’re preparing in advance, you can store the baked meringue in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to assemble the topping just before serving to keep the meringue crisp.

Keto Pavlova Recipe

Ingredients:

2 large egg whites
1/4 tsp cream of tartar or 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup powdered Allulose (40 g/ 1.4 oz)
1 cup heavy whipping cream (240 ml/ 8 fl oz)
1 tsp sugar-free vanilla extract
2 tbsp powdered Allulose or low-carb sweetener of choice (20 g/ 0.7 oz)
1 cup fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, or a mix)

Instructions:

Beat the Egg Whites: Crack the eggs and separate the whites into a clean bowl. Beat the egg whites on medium-low speed for about 2 minutes until foamy. Add the cream of tartar (or apple cider vinegar), and continue beating. Gradually add the powdered Allulose until stiff peaks form and the meringue is glossy.
Prepare the Meringue Nest: Line your air fryer with parchment paper. Spoon the meringue mixture onto the paper, shaping it into a round nest. Use a spoon to create a slight indentation in the center.
Bake: Preheat the air fryer to 120°C (250°F). Bake for 40 minutes, checking once or twice. When the meringue is golden and firm, remove it from
Whip the Cream: While the meringue is cooling, whip the heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered Allulose and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Continue whipping until it reaches stiff peaks and is thick and creamy.
Assemble the Pavlova: Once the meringue has cooled, gently transfer it to a serving plate. Spoon the whipped cream into the center of the meringue nest and spread it evenly. Top the cream with fresh berries of your choice.
Optional Garnish: For an added touch of freshness, garnish with a few mint leaves or a drizzle of sugar-free syrup if desired.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to a day. If you prefer to make the meringue ahead of time, store the baked meringue in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and assemble right before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Net Carbs: 4.7 grams
- Protein: 3.3 grams
- Fat: 23 grams
- Calories: 250 kcal
Tips for Making the Perfect Keto Pavlova
- Ensure Proper Egg Separation: When making meringue, any yolk in the egg whites can interfere with their ability to form stiff peaks. Make sure the eggs are separated cleanly.
- Avoid Overmixing the Meringue: Overmixing the egg whites can cause them to break down, leading to a less stable meringue. Stop once stiff peaks form.
- Don’t Skip the Cooling Step: It’s essential to let the meringue cool completely before assembling the Pavlova. Handling it while still warm can cause it to collapse or crack.
- Use a Parchment Liner for the Air Fryer: Parchment paper ensures the meringue doesn’t stick to the basket and helps you easily remove it after baking.
This keto Pavlova is a fantastic dessert that offers the perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and crunch, all while keeping the carb count low. Whether you’re following a ketogenic diet or simply looking for a low-carb treat, this dessert is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings without any of the guilt. The air fryer speeds up the process, making it even more convenient for busy holiday baking. The bright, vibrant berries and fluffy whipped cream topping add a festive touch that’s sure to impress your guests.

By using keto-friendly ingredients like powdered Allulose and sugar-free vanilla extract, this Pavlova is not only low in carbs but also diabetic-friendly, making it a great option for anyone who is watching their sugar intake. Try this delightful dessert the next time you’re in the mood for something light and sweet. Your air fryer will become your new best friend for baking meringue-based desserts with ease!