While the two are similar, as pavlova is a meringue-based dessert, they are not exactly the same. Meringue can mean a few things, most commonly whipped egg whites, fluffy eggs whites on a pie, and egg whites that are baked until crunchy. Pavlovas, on the other hand, are whipped egg whites that have been baked until they have a crunchy exterior while the inside retains a soft, marshmallow-like center. Pavlovas are usually served with whipped cream and fresh fruit, then drizzled with more heavy cream.