As autumn paints the world in warm hues, there’s a sweetness in the air that calls for celebration. This Autumn Pavlova with Apples, Maple Cream, and Salted Caramel is my go-to dessert that captures the essence of the season. Imagine sinking your spoon into a light, crisp meringue shell cradling fluffy maple-infused cream, followed by tender roasted apples, and a generous drizzle of luscious salted caramel. Not only is this dessert stunning to behold, but it also offers a delightful contrast between textures and flavors that will make your taste buds dance. What’s more, this pavlova can be effortlessly prepared in less than two hours, making it a fantastic option for those cozy gatherings with friends and family. Ready to transform your autumn festivities with this showstopper? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why is Autumn Pavlova a must-try? Delightful Fusion: This Autumn Pavlova combines crispy and chewy—perfect for those who crave texture in their desserts. Seasonal Splendor: Featuring maple cream and roasted apples, this dish truly embraces fall flavors. Eye-catching Presentation: The beautiful layers and toppings make it a stunning centerpiece for any gathering. Quick and Easy: Ready in under two hours, this dessert saves you time without compromising on taste. Versatile Delight: Swap in your favorite fruits or toppings; it’s adaptable to suit any palate. Whether you’re hosting a Friendsgiving or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this pavlova is the sweet treat to impress your guests! Autumn Pavlova Ingredients For the Meringue • Egg Whites – Essential for structure and volume in the meringue; ensure they are yolk-free for perfect peaks. • Confectioner’s Sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the meringue; regular sugar can work but may alter the texture. • Cornstarch – Helps achieve a firmer texture in the meringue; no alternative necessary. • White Vinegar – Enhances stability of the meringue; lemon juice is a great alternative if you’re in a pinch. • Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; try almond extract for a delightful twist. For the Roasted Apples • Honeycrisp or Fuji Apples – Provide a perfect sweet-tart balance; feel free to substitute with any firm apple variety. • Butter – Adds richness and aids in caramelizing apples; coconut oil can substitute for a dairy-free version. • Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses seasonal flavor; if unavailable, a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg can do the trick. • Light Brown Sugar – Sweetens and caramelizes the roasted apples; granulated sugar can also be used if needed. For the Maple Cream • Heavy Cream – Whipped into a luxurious topping for the pavlova; use coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. • Pure Maple Syrup – Sweetens the whipped cream with authentic flavor; agave syrup can be a suitable sundry substitute. • Salt – A pinch balances the sweetness; no alternative necessary here. For the Toppings • Salted Caramel Sauce – Adds a rich flavor contrast; feel free to use store-bought or your homemade version. • Chopped Pecans – Offers a delightful crunch on top; walnuts can replace them or omit for a nut-free version. This Autumn Pavlova with Apples, Maple Cream, and Salted Caramel is not just a treat for your taste buds, but a feast for the eyes as well! Enjoy crafting this delightful dessert! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Autumn Pavlova with Apples, Maple Cream, and Salted Caramel Step 1: Roast the Apples Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, pumpkin pie spice, and light brown sugar. Toss sliced Honeycrisp or Fuji apples in this mixture until fully coated, then spread them evenly in the prepared dish. Roast for 30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until apples are tender and caramelized. Once done, cool the apples to room temperature. Step 2: Prepare the Meringue Lower the oven temperature to 280°F (140°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a stand mixer, whip 4 large egg whites on high speed until stiff peaks form. Gradually add 1 cup of confectioner’s sugar while mixing, ensuring the sugar dissolves completely. Once mixed, gently fold in 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of white vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Shape the meringue into a bowl-like structure on the parchment, then bake for 75 to 90 minutes, until firm and dry. Step 3: Make the Maple Cream While the meringue is baking, begin making the maple cream. In a separate bowl, whip 12 ounces of heavy cream until soft peaks start to form. Gradually drizzle in ¼ cup of pure maple syrup along with a pinch of salt as you continue to whip. Keep mixing until the cream reaches stiff peaks, ensuring it remains light and airy to complement the crispy meringue of the Autumn Pavlova. Step 4: Assemble the Pavlova Once the meringue has cooled completely, it’s assembly time for your Autumn Pavlova. Carefully spread the whipped maple cream over the meringue shell, creating a luscious layer. Next, evenly distribute the cooled roasted apples on top of the cream. Drizzle with salted caramel sauce, allowing it to pool beautifully over the apples, and finish by sprinkling chopped pecans for an added crunch. Serve immediately to enjoy the delightful contrast in textures! Autumn Pavlova with Apples Variations Embrace your culinary creativity with these delicious tweaks that enhance the flavor and texture of your pavlova! Roasted Pears: Swap apples for caramelized pears for a softer, sweeter fruit option that still captures autumn’s essence. Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of salted caramel, drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a rich and decadent twist that’s sure to please chocoholics. Berry Blend: Use mixed berries like raspberries and blueberries with a berry-infused whipped cream for a refreshing take that’s bright and tangy. Nuts Galore: Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts for varying flavors and textures; both add warmth and crunch to each bite. Spiced Whipped Cream: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the whipped cream for a little extra warmth that ties the dessert to seasonal spices. Coconut Cream: For a tropical twist, use whipped coconut cream instead of heavy cream, enhancing the dessert’s richness while keeping it dairy-free. Extra Salted Caramel: Double the salted caramel sauce for drizzling—life is too short for skimpy toppings, and this will elevate the sweet and salty contrast! As you personalize your Autumn Pavlova with Apples, Maple Cream, and Salted Caramel, consider pairing it with a warm spiced cider or even serving it alongside a slice of Coffee Caramel Cake for a beautifully balanced dessert spread. Enjoy making it your own! Make Ahead Options These Autumn Pavlova with Apples, Maple Cream, and Salted Caramel are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the apples and prepare the meringue up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and saving time on the day of serving. Simply cool the roasted apples to room temperature before refrigerating, and store the meringue in an airtight container to maintain its crispiness. When you’re ready to serve, whip the maple cream (it can also be prepped a day ahead), and assemble the pavlova just before enjoying to ensure the textures remain delightful. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Autumn Pavlova Egg Whites Matter: Ensure your egg whites are free of yolk, as even a tiny bit can prevent proper whipping, resulting in a flat meringue. Avoid the Oven Door: Do not open the oven during baking; this can cause the meringue to collapse due to temperature changes. Cool Completely: Allow the meringue to cool completely before assembly; this helps maintain the crispy shell and prevents sogginess. Assemble Just Before Serving: To preserve the textures, assemble the Autumn Pavlova with Apples, Maple Cream, and Salted Caramel right before serving. Keep Toppings Separate: If you have leftovers, store the meringue and toppings separately to prevent the meringue from becoming soft and losing its delightful crunch. Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different fruit toppings or flavored creams to make this dessert uniquely yours! Storage Tips for Autumn Pavlova Fridge: Store leftover pavlova components separately in the fridge. The meringue can last up to 3 days when kept in an airtight container, while the maple cream and roasted apples should be consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness. Freezer: You can freeze meringue shells for longer storage. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, where they will hold up for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before assembling. Reheating: For the roasted apples, reheat gently in the oven to warm them up, but avoid reheating the meringue, as it will lose its crispiness. Assembly: Always assemble your Autumn Pavlova just before serving to maintain the ideal textures; otherwise, leftovers will soften due to moisture absorption. What to Serve with Autumn Pavlova with Apples, Maple Cream, and Salted Caramel As you create your enchanting dessert, consider these delightful pairings to elevate your autumn dining experience. Warm Spiced Cider: A cozy drink infused with cinnamon and cloves, perfectly complements the flavors of your pavlova while enhancing the fall atmosphere. Cinnamon Sugar Cookies: These addictive cookies offer a crunchy texture that beautifully contrasts the soft, creamy layers of the pavlova, bringing an extra touch of sweetness. Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, creamy scoop mellows the pavlova’s richness, providing a lovely balance, especially when drizzled with more salted caramel for indulgence. Roasted Pumpkin Soup: An earthy, savory dish that can be a wonderful starter, its warm spices set a perfect stage for the sweet finale of your pavlova. Nutty Granola: Crumbled over your pavlova or served on the side, it adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor without overwhelming the dessert’s delicate elements. Chai Tea: The warm, spiced undertones in a calming cup of chai enhance the autumn vibe, making it a snug companion to your pavlova. Chocolate Tart: Rich and decadent, this dessert brings a luscious finish to your meal, complementing the flavors in the pavlova while providing a sophisticated end. Caramel Pecan Brownies: These fudgy treats full of caramel and nuts echo the pavlova’s toppings, creating a tempting dessert spread sure to leave your guests in awe. Whether shared among friends or enjoyed during intimate gatherings, these selections will beautifully enrich your feast! Autumn Pavlova with Apples, Maple Cream, and Salted Caramel Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe apples for this pavlova? Absolutely! When choosing apples, look for Honeycrisp or Fuji varieties, as they offer a delightful sweet-tart flavor. Aim for firm, blemish-free apples with a vibrant color. If you notice any dark spots or softness, it’s best to avoid them. How should I store leftover pavlova components? To keep your Autumn Pavlova fresh, store the meringue shell and toppings separately. The meringue can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For the maple cream and roasted apples, refrigerate in separate airtight containers and consume within 2 days to ensure optimal flavor and texture. Can I freeze the meringue shell? Very much! Freezing the meringue is a great option for future treats. Wrap the completely cooled meringue tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It will stay fresh for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and assemble the pavlova just before serving. What if my meringue doesn’t rise properly? Oh no, that’s a common concern! If your meringue doesn’t rise, ensure that no egg yolk was mixed in with the whites, as even a tiny bit can impede the whipping process. Additionally, make sure your mixing bowl is completely clean and dry—any grease can affect the outcome. If you encounter collapse during baking, avoid opening the oven door, as drafts can cause the meringue to lose its structure. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Definitely! For those with nut allergies, simply skip the pecans or substitute them with another topping—perhaps some toasted coconut flakes! If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, replace the butter with coconut oil, the heavy cream with coconut cream, and ensure that your maple syrup is pure. Lastly, always double-check the labels of pre-made ingredients like the salted caramel sauce to confirm they are allergy-safe. How do I serve the pavlova for the best experience? To enjoy your Autumn Pavlova with Apples, Maple Cream, and Salted Caramel at its finest, serve it immediately after assembly! This way, you maintain the delightful contrast between the crisp meringue and the soft toppings. For a lovely touch, consider pairing it with a spiced cider or a warm cup of coffee for a cozy fall dessert experience. Autumn Pavlova with Apples, Maple Cream, and Salted Caramel Bliss Delight in the flavors of Autumn with this Autumn Pavlova featuring crispy meringue, roasted apples, maple cream, and salted caramel. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes minsCooling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Meringue4 large Egg Whites Ensure they are yolk-free for perfect peaks.1 cup Confectioner's Sugar Regular sugar can work but may alter texture.1 teaspoon Cornstarch Helps achieve a firmer texture.1 teaspoon White Vinegar Lemon juice is a great alternative.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Try almond extract for a twist.For the Roasted Apples4 Honeycrisp or Fuji Apples Substitute with any firm apple variety.2 tablespoons Butter Coconut oil can substitute for a dairy-free version.1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice Mix of cinnamon and nutmeg can substitute.2 tablespoons Light Brown Sugar Granulated sugar can be used if needed.For the Maple Cream12 ounces Heavy Cream Use coconut cream for dairy-free.1/4 cup Pure Maple Syrup Agave syrup can be a substitute.1 pinch SaltFor the Toppings1 cup Salted Caramel Sauce Store-bought or homemade.1/2 cup Chopped Pecans Walnuts can replace or omit for nut-free. Equipment Stand Mixerbaking sheetparchment papermixing bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, pumpkin pie spice, and light brown sugar. Toss sliced apples in this mixture until fully coated, spread them evenly, and roast for 30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and caramelized. Cool to room temperature.Lower the oven temperature to 280°F (140°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a stand mixer, whip egg whites on high speed until stiff peaks form. Gradually add confectioner's sugar while mixing until dissolved. Gently fold in cornstarch, vinegar, and vanilla extract. Shape meringue into a bowl-like structure and bake for 75 to 90 minutes, until firm and dry.While the meringue is baking, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually drizzle in maple syrup along with a pinch of salt, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.Once the meringue has cooled, spread the whipped maple cream over the meringue shell. Distribute cooled roasted apples on top, drizzle with salted caramel sauce, and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 3gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 0.5mg NotesAssemble just before serving to maintain ideal textures. Store components separately in the fridge to prevent sogginess. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
