Vegan Pavlovas with Pomegranates and Chocolate

Highlighted under: Dessert Lover’s Collection

Delight in the airy, crisp texture of vegan pavlovas topped with vibrant pomegranates and rich chocolate for a stunning dessert.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-02T19:54:02.564Z

These Vegan Pavlovas with Pomegranates and Chocolate are a delightful twist on the classic dessert. With a crispy exterior and a soft, marshmallow-like interior, they offer a perfect canvas for the tartness of pomegranates and the richness of dark chocolate.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Light and airy texture that melts in your mouth
  • Vibrant pomegranates add a burst of flavor and color
  • Rich dark chocolate drizzle elevates the dessert
  • Perfect for special occasions or a sweet finish to any meal

The Art of Vegan Pavlovas

Creating the perfect vegan pavlova is an art that combines technique with a few simple ingredients. The key to achieving that signature light and airy texture lies in the aquafaba, which is the liquid from cooked chickpeas. When whipped, aquafaba mimics egg whites, providing the structure needed for these delightful meringues. Don’t rush the whipping process; patience is essential to ensure your pavlovas achieve the desired fluffiness.

In addition to aquafaba, the inclusion of cornstarch and cream of tartar plays a pivotal role. Cornstarch helps stabilize the pavlova and gives it a chewy interior, while cream of tartar adds the necessary acidity to strengthen the meringue. This combination is what allows vegan pavlovas to stand tall and remain crisp on the outside while being soft on the inside.

Pomegranate and Chocolate: A Match Made in Heaven

The vibrant pomegranate seeds not only enhance the visual appeal of the pavlovas but also provide a refreshing burst of flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the meringue. Rich in antioxidants, pomegranates add a healthy twist to your dessert, making it not just indulgent but also nourishing. Their tartness balances the sweetness, creating a harmonious flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.

Drizzling melted dark chocolate over the pavlovas elevates this dessert to another level. The richness of the chocolate contrasts beautifully with the lightness of the pavlova and the tartness of the pomegranates. Opt for high-quality dark chocolate with a cocoa percentage of 70% or higher for the best flavor. This combination of textures and flavors makes these vegan pavlovas an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Serving and Storing Your Pavlovas

These vegan pavlovas are best served fresh, allowing you to enjoy their delightful texture at its peak. When hosting a gathering or special occasion, consider preparing the pavlovas a few hours in advance. You can whip up the meringues and store them in an airtight container at room temperature, adding the toppings just before serving to maintain their crispness.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in a cool, dry place, but keep in mind that the pavlovas may lose their crispiness over time. To refresh them, you can place them back in a low oven for a few minutes. However, it’s best to savor these sweet creations as soon as possible to experience their airy delight!

Ingredients

For the Pavlovas

  • 1 cup aquafaba (chickpea water)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Topping

  • 1 cup pomegranate seeds
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate, melted
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Make sure to prepare the ingredients ahead of time for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Aquafaba

Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, whip the aquafaba using an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Add the cream of tartar and continue to whip until stiff peaks form.

Add Sugar and Flavor

Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to whip, ensuring the mixture is glossy. Add the vanilla extract, cornstarch, and lemon juice, and mix until well incorporated.

Shape the Pavlovas

Using a spatula, spoon the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming six circular nests. Create a slight indent in the center of each pavlova for the toppings.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the pavlovas are dry and crisp. Turn off the oven and let them cool inside for an hour.

Prepare the Topping

Once the pavlovas are cool, top each with pomegranate seeds and drizzle with melted dark chocolate. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.

Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for later enjoyment.

Why Choose Vegan Desserts?

Vegan desserts are a fantastic option for those looking to reduce their animal product intake without sacrificing taste. These recipes often focus on whole, plant-based ingredients that are not only healthier but also environmentally friendly. By choosing vegan options like our pavlovas, you can indulge your sweet tooth while making a positive impact on your health and the planet.

Additionally, vegan desserts are often suitable for a variety of dietary restrictions, making them a perfect choice for gatherings. Whether you have friends who are lactose intolerant, allergic to eggs, or simply prefer plant-based options, these pavlovas offer a delicious solution that everyone can enjoy!

Perfect Pairings

These vegan pavlovas pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. A cup of herbal tea or a refreshing fruit-infused water can enhance the overall experience, offering a light complement to the sweetness of the dessert. For a more indulgent experience, serve them alongside a rich cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine to elevate the flavors.

For those looking to create a complete dessert platter, consider serving the pavlovas with a side of whipped coconut cream or a scoop of vegan ice cream. This adds another layer of texture and flavor, making your dessert table truly irresistible.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pavlovas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pavlovas a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.

→ Is aquafaba easy to find?

Yes, aquafaba is typically found in canned chickpeas. Just save the liquid!

→ Can I use other fruits for toppings?

Absolutely! Berries, kiwi, or citrus are great alternatives.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover pavlovas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.

Vegan Pavlovas with Pomegranates and Chocolate

Delight in the airy, crisp texture of vegan pavlovas topped with vibrant pomegranates and rich chocolate for a stunning dessert.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration60 minutes
Overall Time80 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Dessert Lover’s Collection

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 6 servings

What You'll Need

For the Pavlovas

  1. 1 cup aquafaba (chickpea water)
  2. 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
  3. 1 cup powdered sugar
  4. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  5. 1 cup cornstarch
  6. 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Topping

  1. 1 cup pomegranate seeds
  2. 1/2 cup dark chocolate, melted
  3. Fresh mint leaves for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, whip the aquafaba using an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Add the cream of tartar and continue to whip until stiff peaks form.

Step 02

Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to whip, ensuring the mixture is glossy. Add the vanilla extract, cornstarch, and lemon juice, and mix until well incorporated.

Step 03

Using a spatula, spoon the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming six circular nests. Create a slight indent in the center of each pavlova for the toppings.

Step 04

Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the pavlovas are dry and crisp. Turn off the oven and let them cool inside for an hour.

Step 05

Once the pavlovas are cool, top each with pomegranate seeds and drizzle with melted dark chocolate. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Total Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 10mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 22g
  • Protein: 3g