Light, airy, and irresistibly delicious, this Anna Pavlova Cherry Roll combines a delicate meringue sponge with a rich cream cheese filling and sweet cherries. Inspired by the famous Pavlova dessert, this elegant rolled cake is perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a show-stopping dessert. The crisp meringue exterior, creamy filling, and juicy cherries create a beautiful balance of textures and flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Meringue Sponge
- 10 large egg whites, room temperature
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- 2 packets vanilla sugar (or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract)
For the Filling
- 1 ¼ cups heavy whipping cream
- 10 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 5.3 ounces (150 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cherries from cherry compote, drained
For Decoration
- 2–3 tablespoons cherry compote syrup
- Fresh or compote cherries for garnish
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, beat the room-temperature egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar while continuing to mix until the sugar dissolves completely and stiff, glossy peaks form.
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it. Spread the meringue mixture evenly across the pan.
Sprinkle the vanilla sugar over the top.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Whip the heavy cream with the sugar until soft peaks form. Add the softened cream cheese and continue mixing until smooth and creamy.
Allow the baked sponge to cool completely in the baking pan. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel while cooling to help retain moisture.
Once cooled, carefully transfer it onto a clean towel.
Spread most of the cream filling evenly over the sponge, reserving about 1 cup for the topping.
Scatter the drained cherries evenly over the cream.
Carefully roll the sponge into a log using the towel to assist.
Mix a few tablespoons of cherry compote syrup into the reserved cream until it turns a light pink color.
Spread the pink cream over the outside of the roll and decorate with cherries.
Chill for at least 2 hours before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Room-temperature egg whites whip up with better volume.
- Be careful not to overbake the meringue sponge, as it can become brittle.
- Fresh cherries may be substituted when in season.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
