As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of coconut mingled with sweet, tangy passionfruit, transporting me to sun-drenched beaches with each stir. These Passionfruit Lamingtons are a delightful twist on the classic Australian treat that’s sure to impress at your next gathering. With a soft coconut sponge infused with zesty passionfruit curd and enveloped in a luscious icing, you’ll find the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Not only are they a charming dessert, but they’re also a fun way to bring a touch of tropical paradise to your table. Whether you’re making them for an afternoon tea or a festive celebration, these lamingtons will surely become a favorite. Are you ready to take a bite of sunshine?
Why are Passionfruit Lamingtons irresistible?
Tropical Vibes: The infusion of passionfruit creates a refreshing burst of flavor that brightens any day.
Fluffy Texture: The coconut sponge is light and airy, making every bite a heavenly experience.
Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers alike.
Perfect for Sharing: Great for parties, picnics, or afternoon tea, they’ll impress friends and family.
Versatile Delight: Swap out passionfruit for your favorite fruit to customize these treats for any occasion.
Dive into this delightful recipe, and don’t forget to check out our Coconut Cream Pie for more tropical inspiration!
Passionfruit Lamingtons Ingredients
For the Coconut Sponge
• 200g unsalted butter – Adds moisture and richness; use softened butter for easy creaming.
• 225g caster sugar – Provides sweetness to balance the flavors; can substitute with a natural sweetener.
• 3 large eggs – Binds the mixture; ensure they’re room temperature for better emulsification.
• 180g plain flour – Gives structure; can use gluten-free flour blend as a substitute.
• 2 tsp baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a light sponge.
• 30g cornflour – Contributes to a tender crumb; optional for reduced gluten content.
• 2 tsp vanilla essence – Adds depth of flavor; replace with almond extract for variation.
• 120ml canned full-fat coconut milk – Brings moisture and coconut flavor; fresh coconut milk can also work.
For the Passionfruit Curd
• 125g passionfruit pulp (about 7-8 fruit) – The star ingredient; use fresh or canned pulp for the primary flavor.
• 100g unsalted butter – Provides richness and smooth texture.
• 125g caster sugar – Sweetness to balance the tartness of the curd.
• 2 medium eggs – Essential for thickening the curd.
• 1 tsp cornflour – Stabilizes the curd for a perfect consistency.
For the Buttercream
• 200g unsalted butter – Softened for easy mixing and spreadability.
• 400g icing sugar – Adds sweetness and structure to the filling.
• 1 tbsp canned full-fat coconut milk – Enhances the coconut flavor and makes the buttercream fluffy.
For the Passionfruit Icing and Topping
• 300g icing sugar – The base for a sweet icing.
• 50g passionfruit curd – Incorporates the signature flavor into the icing.
• 4-5 tbsp water – Adjust according to desired icing consistency.
• 150g desiccated coconut – Coating for texture and additional coconut flavor.
Let your kitchen fill with sunshine as you whip up these delightful Passionfruit Lamingtons!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Passionfruit Lamingtons
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Start by ensuring your butter, eggs, and coconut milk are at room temperature for optimal mixing. Preheat your oven to 175°C (fan). Gather your ingredients in one area to have everything at your fingertips. This preparation will help streamline the process as you create your delightful Passionfruit Lamingtons.
Step 2: Make Coconut Sponge
In a mixing bowl, cream together 200g of softened unsalted butter and 225g of caster sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Add the three large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Sift in the 180g of plain flour, 2 tsp of baking powder, and 30g of cornflour, then stir in 2 tsp of vanilla essence and 120ml of coconut milk until just combined.
Step 3: Bake
Pour the coconut sponge batter into a greased and lined 8×8 inch baking tin, spreading it evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the sponge to cool completely in the tin, then gently transfer it to a cooling rack before trimming and slicing it into 16 squares.
Step 4: Prepare Passionfruit Curd
While the sponge cools, prepare the passionfruit curd. Sift the 125g of passionfruit pulp to remove seeds. In a saucepan, combine the pulp, 100g of unsalted butter, and 125g of caster sugar over medium heat until melted. Gradually whisk in 2 lightly beaten eggs and 1 tsp of cornflour, cooking gently until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Once thick, transfer the curd to a bowl and cool completely.
Step 5: Make Buttercream
For the buttercream, beat 200g of softened unsalted butter and 400g of icing sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes. Add in 1 tbsp of coconut milk and mix until well incorporated. Transfer this smooth mixture into a piping bag, ready for filling the lamingtons.
Step 6: Make Passionfruit Icing
Sift 50g of passionfruit curd to remove any seeds and combine it with 300g of icing sugar in a bowl. Gradually add 4-5 tbsp of water, mixing until you achieve a smooth, drizzling consistency. This will be the beautiful icing that coats your Passionfruit Lamingtons, adding flavor and visual appeal.
Step 7: Assemble Lamingtons
Cut each sponge square in half horizontally to create layers. Pipe the buttercream around the edges of the bottom half, creating a small barrier. Spoon a layer of the passionfruit curd inside and carefully place the top half of the sponge back on to sandwich the two layers together. Repeat for all squares.
Step 8: Coat
Crumb coat each assembled lamington with a thin layer of leftover buttercream to seal in the layers, then chill them in the fridge for about 30 minutes until firm. Dip each lamington in the passionfruit icing, allowing the excess to drip off. Roll in 150g of desiccated coconut to finish, then top with remaining buttercream and a drizzle of curd for extra flair.
Make Ahead Options
These Passionfruit Lamingtons are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the coconut sponge and passionfruit curd up to 24 hours in advance; simply allow the sponge to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain moisture. The passionfruit curd can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to assemble your lamingtons, slice the sponge, fill it with buttercream and curd, then coat in icing and coconut. These make-ahead steps ensure your Passionfruit Lamingtons are just as delicious when it’s time to indulge!
Passionfruit Lamingtons Variations Ideas
Feel free to get creative and make these Passionfruit Lamingtons uniquely yours with these easy variations!
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Tropical Twist: Swap in mango puree instead of passionfruit for a delightful, sunny flavor that brings a different fruity sweetness to your treat.
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Berry Bliss: Use raspberry pulp instead of passionfruit for a tangy berry explosion. The vibrant color will also make your lamingtons visually stunning!
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Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend so everyone can enjoy these delicious treats without compromising on taste or texture.
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Coconut Flour: For a more intense coconut flavor, replace half of the plain flour with coconut flour. Just be aware that coconut flour is thirstier, so you may need to add a bit of extra coconut milk.
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Nutty Flavor: Add toasted almond flakes inside your buttercream filling for an irresistible crunch and a nutty dimension that beautifully complements the tropical flavors.
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Spicy Heat: Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper into the icing for a surprising kick that dances on your palate, balancing sweet and heat perfectly.
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Chocolate Cohort: Drizzle or dip the lamingtons in dark chocolate after the icing, creating a rich flavor contrast that adds decadence to your tropical treats.
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Citrus Zing: Incorporate some zest from a lime or lemon into your buttercream or icing to amplify the zingy flavors, creating a refreshing finish that pairs beautifully with the passionfruit.
These ideas add new dimensions while allowing you to personalize your Passionfruit Lamingtons further. And if you’re in the mood for something different, try our delightful Coconut Cream Pie for another tropical treat!
Expert Tips for Passionfruit Lamingtons
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially eggs and butter, are at room temperature. This helps in achieving better emulsification for a light coconut sponge.
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Cooling is Key: Let each layer cool completely before assembling. This aligns the flavors and ensures the icing doesn’t melt off during the coating process.
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Proper Combining: When mixing the butter and sugar for the coconut sponge, take your time. Creaming well ensures a light and airy texture in your Passionfruit Lamingtons.
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Drizzling Consistency: Achieving the right consistency for the passionfruit icing is crucial. Add water gradually to prevent it from becoming too runny or too thick, facilitating proper coating.
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Stay Creative: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Substitute passionfruit with mango or raspberry for a delightful twist and explore different flavors that complement the coconut sponge.
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Storage Savvy: While best enjoyed fresh, store any leftover lamingtons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain their wonderful taste and texture.
Storage Tips for Passionfruit Lamingtons
Fridge: Store your Passionfruit Lamingtons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and moist.
Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, wrap each lamington individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For best results, allow frozen lamingtons to thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying them. You can also briefly microwave them for 10-15 seconds if you prefer a warm treat.
Room Temperature: Although best stored in the fridge, you can serve them at room temperature for up to 2 hours during gatherings; just make sure they’re covered to prevent drying out.
What to Serve with Passionfruit Lamingtons
Whether you’re hosting an afternoon tea or a tropical-themed gathering, pairing delicious sides with your Passionfruit Lamingtons can elevate the experience.
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Fresh Tropical Fruit Salad: Bursting with sweetness and acidity, a fruit salad featuring mango, pineapple, and kiwi complements the zingy passionfruit flavors beautifully, enhancing the tropical vibe.
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Coconut Cream Pie: For an extra layer of coconut delight, serving a creamy coconut pie can create a luscious, indulgent finish to your meal, satisfying dessert lovers.
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Iced Herbal Tea: A refreshing tea infused with mint or hibiscus offers a floral note that harmonizes well with the fruity lamingtons, making for a light, thirst-quenching beverage.
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Macadamia Nut Cookies: Crunchy and nutty, these cookies add texture and richness, pairing perfectly with the soft, sponge-like lamingtons while maintaining that tropical essence.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Servicing a scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream alongside your Passionfruit Lamingtons not only balances the sweetness but also adds a creamy contrast to the sponge’s texture.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: For a classy and refreshing drink choice, a tall glass of sparkling water with a squeeze of lime cleanses the palate and refreshes the senses between bites of this delightful treat.
Enhance the enjoyment of your Passionfruit Lamingtons by mixing and matching these delightful pairings that echo the flavors of the tropics!
Passionfruit Lamingtons Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe passionfruit?
Absolutely! To choose the perfect passionfruit, look for fruits that are slightly wrinkled, which indicates ripeness and sweetness. If they are too firm or smooth, they might be underripe and lack the intense flavor we want. Also, check for a vibrant color; deep purple or yellow skins are ideal for a flavorful experience!
How should I store Passionfruit Lamingtons, and how long do they last?
Ensuring your Passionfruit Lamingtons stay fresh is key. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them moist and flavorful. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them instead—individually wrap each lamington in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just remember to let them thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying!
Can I freeze my Passionfruit Lamingtons?
Yes, you can! Freezing is a great way to preserve these delicious treats. After baking and assembling your lamingtons, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply take them out and let them thaw in the fridge overnight for the best flavor and texture.
What if my passionfruit curd doesn’t thicken properly?
No worries! If your passionfruit curd isn’t thickening as it should, it might be due to not cooking it long enough or not whisking in the eggs properly. Make sure to keep the heat medium-low and stir continuously, allowing the curd to thicken over about 5-7 minutes. If it still doesn’t thicken, you can try returning it to a gentle heat and whisk in an additional teaspoon of cornflour mixed with a little water, then continue cooking until it reaches the desired consistency.
Are these Passionfruit Lamingtons suitable for people with allergies?
Great question! These Passionfruit Lamingtons do contain common allergens such as eggs, dairy (butter), and gluten (flour). For those with gluten intolerance, you can substitute plain flour with a gluten-free blend. Always check the label of your ingredients to ensure they are free from allergens suitable for your dietary needs. If you’re baking for someone with specific allergies, consulting them for alternatives is always a smart choice.
Can I make these lamingtons vegan?
Very! To adapt this recipe for a vegan diet, you can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds (1 tablespoon mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg). Use vegan butter instead of regular butter and ensure the coconut milk you choose is dairy-free. For further sweetness, maple syrup can replace caster sugar. This way, you can enjoy a delightful, plant-based version of these Passionfruit Lamingtons without compromising on flavor!
Tropical Passionfruit Lamingtons That Will Brighten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Ingredients: Start by ensuring your butter, eggs, and coconut milk are at room temperature for optimal mixing. Preheat your oven to 175°C (fan). Gather your ingredients in one area to have everything at your fingertips.
- Make Coconut Sponge: In a mixing bowl, cream together 200g of softened unsalted butter and 225g of caster sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Add the three large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Sift in the 180g of plain flour, 2 tsp of baking powder, and 30g of cornflour, then stir in 2 tsp of vanilla essence and 120ml of coconut milk until just combined.
- Bake: Pour the coconut sponge batter into a greased and lined 8x8 inch baking tin, spreading it evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the sponge to cool completely in the tin, then gently transfer it to a cooling rack before trimming and slicing it into 16 squares.
- Prepare Passionfruit Curd: While the sponge cools, prepare the passionfruit curd. Sift the 125g of passionfruit pulp to remove seeds. In a saucepan, combine the pulp, 100g of unsalted butter, and 125g of caster sugar over medium heat until melted. Gradually whisk in 2 lightly beaten eggs and 1 tsp of cornflour, cooking gently until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Once thick, transfer the curd to a bowl and cool completely.
- Make Buttercream: For the buttercream, beat 200g of softened unsalted butter and 400g of icing sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes. Add in 1 tbsp of coconut milk and mix until well incorporated. Transfer this smooth mixture into a piping bag, ready for filling the lamingtons.
- Make Passionfruit Icing: Sift 50g of passionfruit curd to remove any seeds and combine it with 300g of icing sugar in a bowl. Gradually add 4-5 tbsp of water, mixing until you achieve a smooth, drizzling consistency.
- Assemble Lamingtons: Cut each sponge square in half horizontally to create layers. Pipe the buttercream around the edges of the bottom half, creating a small barrier. Spoon a layer of the passionfruit curd inside and carefully place the top half of the sponge back on to sandwich the two layers together. Repeat for all squares.
- Coat: Crumb coat each assembled lamington with a thin layer of leftover buttercream to seal in the layers, then chill them in the fridge for about 30 minutes until firm. Dip each lamington in the passionfruit icing, allowing the excess to drip off. Roll in 150g of desiccated coconut to finish, then top with remaining buttercream and a drizzle of curd for extra flair.