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Passion Fruit Mousse

Category: Sweet Treats That Define American Baking

This mousse brings together the exotic flavor of passion fruit and creamy richness in a light, chilled dessert that's perfect after any meal. Bloomed gelatin and a sweetened fruit mixture are gently folded into whipped cream and condensed milk, then left to set for a fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Finished with a vibrant passion fruit topping and a sprig of mint, each spoonful offers a balance of tangy, sweet, and creamy notes. It's an easy yet impressive way to end a meal, suitable for those seeking gluten-free or vegetarian-friendly options.

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Updated on Tue, 27 May 2025 11:51:27 GMT
A bowl of passion fruit mousse. Save
A bowl of passion fruit mousse. | krispyrecipes.com

This refreshing passion fruit mousse is the dessert I turn to when I want something that feels both special and effortless. Light and tangy with just the right hint of creaminess, it is a classic Brazilian treat that instantly brightens the end of any meal. Everyone seems to love its tropical flavor—my friends still ask me for the recipe after every dinner party.

I began making passion fruit mousse to bring a taste of summer to winter gatherings and now it is my signature dessert for any occasion that needs a tropical lift.

Ingredients

  • Passion fruit pulp: gives that unmistakable intense tang find the freshest pulp you can or a good quality frozen version works well too
  • Granulated sugar: balances the acidity of the fruit choose fine sugar for easier dissolving
  • Water: helps dissolve the sugar and bloom the gelatin so make sure it is cold for the gelatin step
  • Unflavored gelatin powder: sets the mousse for the right silky texture always check the expiration date for potency
  • Heavy cream: brings richness and that dreamy mouthfeel opt for full-fat cream that is well chilled for best whipping results
  • Sweetened condensed milk: gives creamy sweetness and a smooth texture use a trusted brand for best flavor
  • Fresh passion fruit pulp with seeds: is perfect for garnish and dramatic presentation
  • Mint leaves: add a burst of color and freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Bloom the Gelatin:
In a small bowl sprinkle the unflavored gelatin powder evenly over cold water and let it sit for at least five minutes until the granules are fully hydrated and slightly swollen This step ensures the mousse will set properly
Warm the Fruit Mixture:
Combine the passion fruit pulp granulated sugar and a bit of water in a small saucepan over low heat Stir gently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture feels just warm to the touch This infuses the sugar and pulp and helps bring their flavors together Take care not to let it boil to preserve the fresh passion fruit taste
Dissolve the Gelatin:
Take the warm passion fruit mixture off the heat and immediately add in the bloomed gelatin Stir continuously until every bit of gelatin is dissolved and there are no visible lumps Let the mixture sit aside to cool to room temperature otherwise the heat will deflate your whipped cream later
Whip the Cream:
Pour the cold heavy cream into a large mixing bowl and whip it with a hand mixer or whisk until soft peaks form Do not overwhip as you want a light and airy base that will blend smoothly with the other ingredients
Combine the Cream Base:
Fold the sweetened condensed milk gently into the whipped cream Use broad strokes with a spatula to keep the mixture fluffy
Incorporate the Passion Fruit Mixture:
Slowly pour the cooled passion fruit and gelatin mixture into the cream base Use a gentle folding motion to avoid knocking out the air Continue until you have an even pale yellow mousse
Portion and Chill:
Spoon or pipe the mousse evenly into serving glasses or ramekins Transfer to the refrigerator and let chill uncovered for at least three hours until the mousse is set and lightly jiggly
Garnish and Serve:
Just before serving spoon a bit of fresh passion fruit pulp with seeds over each mousse and tuck in a sprig of mint for a burst of freshness Serve chilled and enjoy
A bowl of yellow and orange mousse with a spoon in it. Save
A bowl of yellow and orange mousse with a spoon in it. | krispyrecipes.com

I am always amazed by how the passion fruit transforms the mousse into a luxurious treat and the aroma is so nostalgic that it brings back memories of family celebrations when we all fought for the last spoonful

Storage tips

Keep the mousse covered in the fridge and it will stay fresh for up to three days Avoid freezing as it can change the texture from creamy to icy The mousse is perfect for making ahead if you have a busy dinner schedule

Ingredient substitutions

If you do not have access to fresh passion fruit excellent frozen puree works well For a lighter version swap half the heavy cream for thick Greek yogurt For a vegetarian version use agar agar powder and prepare it according to package instructions

Serving suggestions

I love pairing this mousse with crisp coconut cookies or shortbread for texture It also looks beautiful layered in a trifle with cubes of sponge cake You can also offer a splash of sparkling wine on the side

A glass of passion fruit mousse with a mint leaf on top. Save
A glass of passion fruit mousse with a mint leaf on top. | krispyrecipes.com

Cultural context

Passion fruit mousse is beloved in Brazil and appears at celebrations from birthdays to weddings Known as mousse de maracujá it is famous for its balance of sweetness and tropical brightness making it a symbol of joy at many gatherings

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use bottled passion fruit juice instead of fresh pulp?

Fresh or frozen passion fruit pulp yields the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used if pure and unsweetened. Adjust sugar to taste.

→ What can replace gelatin for a vegetarian version?

Use agar-agar powder as an alternative, following package instructions for quantity and dissolving it thoroughly for proper setting.

→ How long does the mousse keep in the fridge?

Properly covered, it can be stored for up to 3 days. Add fresh toppings just before serving for best presentation and texture.

→ How can I intensify the passion fruit flavor?

Add a swirl of extra passion fruit pulp as a topping or mix in some concentrated passion fruit for a bolder tang.

→ Is whipping cream required or can I use alternatives?

Cold heavy cream ensures the mousse is airy, but for a lighter result, substitute part with Greek yogurt or coconut cream.

Passion Fruit Mousse

Fluffy mousse with passion fruit and creamy sweetness, chilled for a refreshing, tropical treat.

Preparation Time
20 min
Cooking Time
~
Total Time
20 min

Recipe Category: All-American Desserts

Skill Level: Beginner

Cuisine Type: Brazilian

Recipe Yield: 6 Servings (6 individual portions)

Dietary Options: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Fruit Mixture

01 240 ml passion fruit pulp, fresh or frozen, seeds removed
02 100 g granulated sugar
03 2 tablespoons water

→ Gelatin

04 10 g unflavored gelatin powder
05 45 ml cold water

→ Cream Base

06 240 ml heavy cream, cold
07 120 ml sweetened condensed milk

→ Garnish (optional)

08 Fresh passion fruit pulp with seeds
09 Mint leaves

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Sprinkle gelatin powder over 45 ml of cold water in a small bowl and allow it to hydrate for 5 minutes.

Step 02

In a saucepan over low heat, combine passion fruit pulp, granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons water. Stir gently until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is slightly warm; do not boil.

Step 03

Remove the saucepan from heat. Add the bloomed gelatin to the warm passion fruit mixture and stir until completely dissolved. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.

Step 04

Using an electric mixer or hand whisk, whip the heavy cream in a large mixing bowl until soft peaks form.

Step 05

Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk into the whipped cream until just combined.

Step 06

Gradually fold the cooled passion fruit mixture into the cream base, mixing until the mousse is smooth and fully integrated.

Step 07

Evenly spoon the mousse into serving glasses or ramekins. Refrigerate for a minimum of 3 hours, or until the mousse is fully set.

Step 08

Before serving, top each portion with fresh passion fruit pulp and mint leaves if desired.

Additional Notes

  1. For a lighter texture, substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt.
  2. Adjust sugar quantity to balance the tartness of the passion fruit.
  3. Serve with coconut cookies or shortbread for additional crunch.
  4. Complements sparkling or dessert wines.

Required Tools

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or hand whisk
  • Small saucepan
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Serving glasses or ramekins

Allergen Information

Make sure to review each ingredient for potential allergens, and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
  • Contains dairy (heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk).
  • Contains gelatin (not suitable for vegetarians who abstain from gelatin).
  • Gluten-free; confirm ingredients to ensure no cross-contamination.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes and aren't a substitute for medical advice.
  • Calories: 265
  • Fats: 16 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Proteins: 4 g