Passion Fruit Ice Cream Recipe for a Refreshing Treat

Updated On: October 18, 2025

There’s something truly magical about passion fruit ice cream. Its vibrant, tropical flavor combined with a creamy texture makes it a perfect treat for warm days or when you simply want to indulge in a refreshing dessert.

If you’ve ever craved a unique and exotic ice cream flavor that’s both tangy and sweet, this passion fruit ice cream recipe is exactly what you need. Whether you’re a seasoned ice cream maker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward, requiring just a handful of ingredients to achieve that luscious, velvety finish.

Plus, homemade ice cream always tastes better because you control the freshness and quality of every ingredient.

In this post, I’ll walk you through everything from gathering your ingredients to serving this tropical delight. You’ll also find tips to perfect the texture and even some creative variations to tailor the recipe to your taste.

Get ready to turn your kitchen into a tropical paradise with this irresistible passion fruit ice cream!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This passion fruit ice cream recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it uses fresh passion fruit pulp, which gives it an authentic and intense flavor that store-bought varieties often lack.

The balance between the tartness of the fruit and the creamy sweetness of the ice cream base is perfectly harmonious, making every spoonful a delightful experience.

Additionally, the recipe is versatile and easy to customize. Whether you want a dairy-free version, a lower-sugar option, or even a boozy take with a splash of rum, this recipe can accommodate your preferences.

And, of course, homemade ice cream is a fantastic way to impress guests or enjoy a special treat with family.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup fresh passion fruit pulp (about 8-10 passion fruits)
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Equipment

  • Ice cream maker
  • Medium saucepan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Fine mesh sieve
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula
  • Freezer-safe container with lid

Instructions

  1. Prepare the passion fruit pulp: Cut the passion fruits in half and scoop out the pulp into a bowl. Set aside.
  2. Heat the cream and milk: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and half of the sugar (3/8 cup). Heat over medium heat until it just starts to simmer. Do not boil. Remove from heat.
  3. Whisk egg yolks and sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and remaining sugar until pale and creamy.
  4. Temper the eggs: Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the warm cream mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly. This gradually raises the temperature of the yolks to prevent curdling.
  5. Combine and cook custard: Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a spatula, until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of the spatula (about 170°F or 77°C). Do not boil.
  6. Strain the custard: Pour the custard through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits.
  7. Add passion fruit pulp and vanilla: Stir in the fresh passion fruit pulp, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
  8. Chill the mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until completely chilled.
  9. Churn the ice cream: Pour the chilled custard into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes.
  10. Freeze until firm: Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Cover with a lid or plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use ripe passion fruits for the best flavor. If fresh passion fruits are unavailable, passion fruit puree can be used, but adjust the sugar accordingly as some purees are sweetened.

  • Dairy-free version: Substitute the heavy cream and milk with full-fat coconut milk for a tropical twist and creamy texture.
  • Extra tartness: Add a teaspoon of freshly squeezed lime juice to enhance the tanginess of the passion fruit.
  • Alcohol infusion: Stir in two tablespoons of rum or passion fruit liqueur after churning for an adult-friendly dessert.
  • Crunchy texture: Fold in toasted coconut flakes or chopped macadamia nuts during the last few minutes of churning.
  • Swirl effect: Reserve a few tablespoons of passion fruit pulp and gently swirl it into the ice cream before freezing for a beautiful marbled look.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1/2 cup)
Calories 220
Total Fat 15g
Saturated Fat 9g
Cholesterol 95mg
Sodium 40mg
Total Carbohydrates 18g
Sugars 17g
Protein 3g

Serving Suggestions

Passion fruit ice cream is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your dessert experience with a few simple accompaniments. Try serving a scoop alongside a slice of lemon pound cake or drizzling some fresh passion fruit syrup on top for extra zing.

For a tropical dessert plate, pair it with fresh mango slices, toasted coconut, or a sprinkle of chopped pistachios. It also pairs wonderfully with a crisp sparkling wine or a fruity rosé if you’re serving it at a summer gathering.

Conclusion

Making passion fruit ice cream at home is a rewarding experience that results in a refreshing and sophisticated dessert. The balance of creamy custard and tangy passion fruit creates a flavor profile that’s both unique and crowd-pleasing.

With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up this tropical treat any time you want to brighten your day or impress guests.

Whether you enjoy it plain, with mix-ins, or alongside other desserts, this passion fruit ice cream is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations to find your perfect version.

Happy churning and savor every spoonful of this tropical delight!

📖 Recipe Card: Passion Fruit Ice Cream

Description: A creamy and tangy passion fruit ice cream perfect for a refreshing dessert. This recipe combines fresh passion fruit pulp with a rich custard base.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT5H35M

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup passion fruit pulp (about 6-8 passion fruits)
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Heat milk and cream in a saucepan until hot but not boiling.
  2. Whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and thick.
  3. Slowly pour hot milk mixture into egg yolks, whisking constantly.
  4. Return mixture to saucepan and cook on low heat until thickened.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in passion fruit pulp, vanilla, and salt.
  6. Cool the custard completely in the refrigerator.
  7. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer instructions.
  8. Freeze the ice cream for at least 4 hours before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 280 | Protein: 4g | Fat: 20g | Carbs: 22g

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Marta K

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