Passion Fruit Ice Cream Recipe

This Passion Fruit Ice Cream is a tropical, creamy, and refreshing dessert that captures the tangy-sweet flavor of passion fruit. Made with real passion fruit pulp, this ice cream is bursting with vibrant citrus notes and a smooth, velvety texture. Perfect for summer or anytime you want a taste of the tropics!

Makes: About 1 quart

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)

Freeze Time: 20-30 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Ice Cream Base:

• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1/2 cup passion fruit pulp (from fresh passion fruit or store-bought puree)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 tbsp passion fruit seeds (for texture and decoration)
• Zest of 1 lime (for extra citrus brightness)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Passion Fruit Pulp

1. If using fresh passion fruit, cut the fruit in half and scoop out the pulp and seeds into a fine-mesh strainer set over a bowl. Use the back of a spoon to press the pulp through the strainer, separating the juice from the seeds. Discard the seeds or reserve them for garnish.
2. If using store-bought passion fruit puree, measure out 1/2 cup and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Ice Cream Base

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk and heavy cream over medium-low heat until it begins to steam but not boil. Remove from heat.
2. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until pale and slightly thickened.
3. Slowly temper the egg mixture by gradually whisking in about 1/2 cup of the warm milk mixture to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
4. Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or spatula, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Do not let it boil.
5. Remove from heat and strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to ensure a smooth texture.
6. Stir in the passion fruit pulp, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 3: Chill the Mixture

1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming.
2. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 4 hours or overnight until completely chilled.

Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream

1. Once chilled, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically for 20-30 minutes , until the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency.
2. If desired, fold in reserved passion fruit seeds or lime zest during the last few minutes of churning for added texture and flavor.

Step 5: Freeze the Ice Cream

1. Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container. Smooth the top with a spatula and cover with plastic wrap or parchment paper pressed directly onto the surface to minimize ice crystals.
2. Freeze for at least 2-4 hours to firm up before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones and garnish with additional passion fruit seeds, a drizzle of passion fruit syrup, or a sprinkle of lime zest for a beautiful presentation.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy the tropical flavors!

Tips for Success:

• Use high-quality passion fruit pulp: Fresh or frozen passion fruit puree works best for authentic flavor.
• No ice cream maker? Pour the chilled mixture into a shallow dish, freeze for 1 hour, then whisk vigorously to break up ice crystals. Repeat every 30 minutes until smooth and frozen.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste the mixture before churning and add more sugar if needed, depending on the tartness of the passion fruit.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk for the milk and cream for a vegan-friendly version.

Nutritional Information (per 1/2 cup serving, makes 8 servings):

• Calories: ~220
• Protein: ~3g
• Carbohydrates: ~28g
• Fat: ~12g

Enjoy this Passion Fruit Ice Cream as a bright, tangy, and creamy dessert that transports you to the tropics with every bite. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, dinner parties, or simply indulging in a sweet escape!