Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This passion fruit tiramisu gives you all the creamy, indulgent goodness of the classic, but with a tropical flair. The sweet-tart flavor of passion fruit cuts through the richness of the mascarpone, making each bite refreshing and full of depth. The use of delicate ladyfingers soaked in a passion fruit syrup creates the perfect balance of textures—soft, spongy layers paired with a smooth, velvety filling. Whether you’re a fan of traditional tiramisu or looking for something new, this decadent dessert is sure to captivate your taste buds!

Ingredients

1 cup mascarpone cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup passion fruit pulp (from fresh passion fruit or store-bought pulp)
1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is ideal)
1 tablespoon sugar (optional, depending on sweetness of passion fruit)
24 ladyfinger cookies
Cocoa powder (for dusting, optional)
Fresh passion fruit pulp or zest for garnish (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Passion Fruit Syrup: In a small bowl, combine the passion fruit pulp, orange juice, and sugar (if using). Stir to combine and set aside. This will be used to soak the ladyfingers.
Make the Mascarpone Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until fully combined.
Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture, creating a light, airy filling.
Assemble the Tiramisu: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the passion fruit syrup, making sure they don’t soak too long to prevent them from becoming soggy. Lay the soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9×9-inch or similar-sized dish, forming a single layer.
Layer the Mascarpone Filling: Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, smoothing it out into an even layer. Repeat the process with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and then the remaining mascarpone mixture.
Chill: Cover the tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to firm up.
Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, dust the top of the tiramisu with a light dusting of cocoa powder and garnish with fresh passion fruit pulp or zest for an added burst of tropical flavor.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 8-10 people.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours (or overnight for best results)
Total time: 4 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Add Chocolate: For a chocolate twist, you can drizzle some melted dark chocolate between the layers of mascarpone or sprinkle chocolate shavings on top.
Non-Alcoholic Version: If you prefer a non-alcoholic dessert, you can skip any alcohol (although traditional tiramisu often uses coffee or liqueur) and soak the ladyfingers entirely in the passion fruit syrup and orange juice.
Other Fruit Flavors: You can try substituting the passion fruit with other tropical fruits such as mango, pineapple, or guava for a different flavor profile.
Vegan Version: To make this recipe vegan, substitute the mascarpone cheese with a plant-based alternative, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and replace the ladyfingers with vegan-friendly ones.

Storage/Reheating

Store the tiramisu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served chilled, and the flavors improve the longer it sits, so making it a day in advance is ideal. This dessert is not suitable for freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use canned passion fruit pulp?

Yes, you can use canned passion fruit pulp if fresh is not available. Just make sure it’s unsweetened or adjust the amount of sugar you add to the syrup.

Can I make this tiramisu ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert is perfect for making ahead! In fact, it tastes even better after it has had time to chill in the fridge and allow the flavors to meld together.

How do I know when the tiramisu is ready to serve?

After chilling for at least 4 hours, the tiramisu should be firm to the touch, with the layers holding together when sliced. If you let it sit overnight, it will be even better.

What if I can’t find ladyfingers?

If you can’t find ladyfingers, you can substitute them with sponge cake or even shortbread cookies. Just make sure they are light and absorb the syrup without becoming too soggy.

Can I use a different fruit instead of passion fruit?

Yes, you can swap passion fruit with other tropical fruits like mango or pineapple, but passion fruit adds a distinct tanginess and floral note that’s hard to replicate. If using another fruit, you may want to adjust the sweetness.

Can I add alcohol to this dessert?

Traditionally, tiramisu uses coffee or liqueurs like Marsala wine or rum. While this recipe is alcohol-free, you can add a splash of rum, Grand Marnier, or even white wine to the syrup for an extra layer of flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It depends on the ladyfingers you use. Most store-bought ladyfingers contain gluten, but you can use gluten-free ladyfingers or sponge cake to make this dessert gluten-free.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover tiramisu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dessert will hold up well and the flavors will continue to develop.

Can I freeze this tiramisu?

Freezing is not recommended for tiramisu as the creamy texture may not hold up well. It’s best enjoyed fresh and chilled from the fridge.

Can I make this tiramisu in individual servings?

Absolutely! You can make individual servings in small glasses or jars for a fun, personalized presentation. Just layer the ingredients as you would in the larger dish.

Conclusion

Decadent Passion Fruit Tiramisu is a luxurious, tropical twist on the beloved classic. With its creamy layers, bright passion fruit flavor, and subtle sweetness, it’s the perfect dessert to impress your guests or treat yourself to something special. Easy to make, yet full of complex flavors, this tiramisu is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for those who love both classic and exotic desserts. Don’t wait—whip up this refreshing and indulgent treat and enjoy a taste of paradise!