Passionfruit Bites

Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time (freezer) 2 hours
Serves 20 small square slices

As someone with a deep love for desserts, I’ve been looking for ways to enjoy sweets in a healthier way. This dessert is a great example of that change. But after making the transition to a plant-based and whole foods lifestyle, I knew I wanted to find ways to indulge without compromising on health. That’s when I started exploring a healthier dessert option that could satisfy my cravings without the guilt. This dessert is a perfect example of how you can enjoy the sweetness of a treat while staying true to a plant-based healthy lifestyle. By using natural sweeteners like maple syrup and dates, this dessert skips out on refined sugars, making it a much healthier alternative. It’s an easy way to enjoy something sweet and refreshing without worrying about the negative effects that come with white sugar. This change has helped me enjoy desserts that fit into my healthier lifestyle, and this recipe shows that it’s possible to make treats that are both tasty and good for you.

Passionfruit Bites

Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time (freezer) 2 hours
Serves 20 small square slices

Ingredients

    Base
  • 8 pitted medjool dates
  • 1 1/2 cups mixed nuts (I like to use macadamia, almonds or cashews)
  • 1 cup desiccated coconut
  • 4 tablespoons melted coconut oil
  • 2 tablespoons nut butter of choice
  • Top
  • 2 cups raw cashews
  • 3/4 cup vegan condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup coconut cream
  • 200 grams frozen passionfruit
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • Condensed Milk
  • 1 1/2 cups full-fat coconut milk (360 mL) canned
  • 1/2 cup white sugar (112 g)

Method

Base

  1. Blend all ingredients in a food processer or high-speed blender until well combined as a moist crumb.
  2. Line a sliced tin and press mixture flat and evenly into the tin.  Place in fridge.

Top

  1. Soak cashews for an hour or two.
  2. Blend all ingredients until smooth and creamy consistency has formed.  This may take some time, and you may need to add water to help break it down.
  3. Top the base with the passion fruit cream and place in fridge for up to two hours to set.
  4. Once set cut into bit sized pieces.
  5. This dessert is best kept in the freezer and then take out to thaw 20 minutes before ready to eat.

Condensed Milk

  1. Add the coconut milk and sugar to a saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat while stirring occasionally.
  2. Turn the heat to low, and let the milk gently simmer for 45 minutes. Give it a stir every 5 – 10 minutes. The mixture should reduce in volume by about half.
  3. The condensed milk is ready when it has slightly thickened and pourable. When a spoon is dipped into the mixture, it should leave a thin layer on the spoon when the spoon is lifted out of the saucepan. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.
  4. Transfer the condensed coconut milk to a sterilized jar to fully cool off. Transfer to the fridge for at least one hour, it will thicken more in the fridge as it cools.

Recipe Notes

EQUIPMENT YOU NEED:

  • Stainless-steel bowl
  • Mixing bowl and a slice tray.
  • Saucepan – small

What makes this dessert even better is that it’s made using maple syrup and dates. These two natural sweeteners are an excellent substitute for refined sugars. Maple syrup is rich in antioxidants and minerals like zinc and manganese, and dates are packed with fiber and vitamins. Both alternatives bring their own unique flavour profiles to the dessert, making it not only sweet but also rich in taste without relying on artificial sweetness. For me, using natural sweeteners is the best, it allows me to enjoy my favourite desserts while staying true to my commitment to whole foods.

Another thing I absolutely love about this dessert is how fresh it tastes. The passion fruit gives it a bright, zesty flavour that’s perfect for summer. There’s something so refreshing about the tangy fruit combined with the smooth and creamy texture of the mousse. On a warm summer day, there’s nothing better than having a healthy dessert ready to go. I like to keep it in the freezer, cut into small squares, so it’s easy to grab a piece whenever I’m craving something sweet. The combination of the crunchy biscuit base and the smooth mousse is absolutely divine.

The mousse itself is made with cashews and frozen passion fruit, and it’s as creamy as any dairy-based dessert you might find. Cashews are a great base for plant-based desserts because they provide a rich, creamy texture when blended, and they’re also packed with healthy fats. The frozen passion fruit adds a tropical, tart element that balances out the sweetness of the base, making each bite feel like a little burst of sunshine. The result is a dessert that’s not only incredibly satisfying but also surprisingly light, making it the perfect treat to enjoy without feeling overly full.

What really brings it together is the use of condensed milk. Condensed milk helps to give the mousse its creamy, slightly sweet taste, and it pairs so well with the passion fruit. Luckily, there are now many condensed milk options available that cater to plant-based diets. However, most store-bought condensed milk varieties are made with refined white sugar. This is something to be mindful of if you’re trying to avoid refined sugars. If you’re looking for an alternative, I have a recipe for making refined-sugar-free condensed milk, which you can easily incorporate into this dessert.

While passion fruit is the star of this recipe, you can easily switch it up with other fruits to suit your taste or to match the season. Lime is a great alternative, and it brings a refreshing citrusy tang to the mousse. Strawberries, too, work wonderfully, giving the dessert a sweet, berry-infused flavour. You can also try mango, which adds a tropical sweetness that complements the smooth mousse perfectly. The best part is that, no matter which fruit you choose, the dessert will still have that creamy, indulgent texture.

Whether you’re following a plant-based lifestyle or simply looking for a lighter, healthier dessert, this passion fruit mousse is a wonderful choice. It’s a dessert that’s full of flavour, texture, and freshness, and it’s made with ingredients that you can feel good about eating. With its refreshing taste and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a favourite in your household, just like it has in mine.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it last?

In the freezer, it can last up to six months. In the fridge, it will stay good for about three months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

How should I store it?

For the best results, keep it in the freezer. It’s best sliced into small squares, so you can grab a piece whenever you’re craving a sweet treat. The cold keeps the mousse firm and refreshing.

Can I use other frozen fruits?

Absolutely! You can easily swap the passion fruit with other frozen fruits like mango, strawberries, or even berries. Just make sure to use the fruit frozen for the smoothest texture and the best flavour. Each fruit will give the dessert a slightly different taste, so feel free to get creative!

Can I make this dessert without condensed milk?

While the condensed milk adds sweetness and creaminess to the mousse, you can substitute it with a plant-based option. You can make your own refined sugar-free condensed milk, or use a store-bought plant-based condensed milk. This will keep the dessert just as creamy without the refined sugars! You can also remove it altogether and the result will be more fruity and less creamy.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes! This dessert is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare it and keep it in the freezer until you’re ready to serve. It’s a great make-ahead treat for parties, gatherings, or when you just want a quick, healthy dessert on hand.