As I stood in my kitchen with the fragrant scent of tropical fruit wafting through the air, I couldn’t help but recall the sun-soaked beaches that inspired my latest creation: an Easy Passionfruit Slice with Coconut Shortbread. This delightful layered dessert features a buttery coconut base topped with a creamy passionfruit filling and a refreshing jelly, making it not just an indulgent treat but also a visual masterpiece. Perfect for gatherings or as a make-ahead surprise for family and friends, this no-bake recipe offers you a quick triumph in baking that will have everyone asking for seconds. With each bite delivering a burst of citrus, you’ll find it hard to resist reliving those sunny moments a slice at a time. Ready to whip up this tropical delight?

Why is This Passionfruit Slice So Special?

Tropical Escape: This Passionfruit Slice transports you to a sun-drenched paradise with its vibrant flavors and textures.

Effortless Preparation: No-bake components make it a breeze to assemble—perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.

Layered Delight: Featuring a chewy coconut shortbread base, luscious passionfruit custard, and a glossy jelly topping, each layer is a delightful surprise!

Crowd-Pleasing Indulgence: Whether at a picnic or a family dinner, it’s an instant hit that’s sure to impress guests and loved ones alike.

Make-Ahead Wonder: Easy to prepare in advance, it’s an excellent option for stress-free entertaining—just chill and serve.

Versatile Ingredient Options: Swap passionfruit for other tropical fruit pulps like mango for a twist, or even try it with a nutty base from my Whiskey Honey Pie recipe for a different flavor experience!

Passionfruit Slice Ingredients

For the Coconut Shortbread Base
• Unsalted Butter – 170g (¾ cup) – Provides richness and acts as a binding agent for the shortbread base; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free version.
• Desiccated Coconut – 65g (¾ cup) – Adds texture and a tropical flavor to the base; ground almonds can be used for a nutty twist.
• Caster Sugar – ½ cup (100g) – Sweetens the base and custard; superfine sugar is preferred for even dissolving, though white granulated sugar is a great alternative.
• Plain Flour – 195g (~7oz) – Ensures the shortbread has a crumbly texture; gluten-free flour blends can replace it for a gluten-free version.

For the Passionfruit Filling
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – 1 tin (395g) – Forms the creamy filling base that adds sweetness and texture; evaporated milk can be used but will need more sugar.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – ¼ cup (60ml) – Brightens and balances the sweetness of the slice; lime juice can work well too.
• Strained Passionfruit Pulp – ¼ cup (60ml for filling) – Provides the tangy flavor essential for this Passionfruit Slice; store-bought passionfruit puree is a good substitute if fresh isn’t available.

For the Topping
• Powdered Gelatine – 1 ½ teaspoons – Sets the jelly layer, crucial for achieving the right texture; for a vegan option, substitute with agar-agar.
• Cold Water – ¼ cup (60ml) – Activates the gelatine, so make sure it’s cold during mixing.
• Strained Passionfruit Pulp – ½ cup (125ml for topping) – Enhances the tangy flavor of the topping; feel free to add a few passionfruit seeds for a unique texture and visual appeal (optional).

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Passionfruit Slice

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). While the oven warms up, line an 8-inch square baking tin with parchment paper, ensuring it hangs over the edges slightly for easy removal later. This step sets the stage for a perfectly baked Passionfruit Slice, preventing any sticking and ensuring it comes out beautifully when it’s time to serve.

Step 2: Make the Coconut Shortbread Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine melted unsalted butter, desiccated coconut, caster sugar, and plain flour. Mix everything together until fully combined, creating a cohesive dough that should feel slightly sticky and crumbly. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking tin and press it down firmly with your fingers or the back of a spoon. This base will become the deliciously crumbly foundation for your Passionfruit Slice; then parbake it for about 10 minutes until it’s just slightly golden.

Step 3: Prepare the Passionfruit Filling
While your base is in the oven, prepare the creamy filling by whisking together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, and ¼ cup of strained passionfruit pulp in another bowl. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and homogenous—this forms the luscious center of your Passionfruit Slice. Once the base is done parbaking and has cooled slightly, pour this filling evenly over it. Return the tin to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the filling is set and doesn’t jiggle when shaken gently.

Step 4: Create the Passionfruit Jelly Topping
For the topping, combine the remaining ½ cup of strained passionfruit pulp with the powdered gelatine and cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to hydrate thoroughly. Next, gently heat the mixture until the gelatine dissolves completely, which will only take a couple of minutes on low heat. Once dissolved, add a bit of sugar to sweeten the topping and stir until all the sugar is incorporated.

Step 5: Chill and Set the Passionfruit Slice
After preparing the jelly topping, remove the baked slice from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, carefully pour the passionfruit jelly mixture over the top of the filling, ensuring an even layer. Chill the entire Passionfruit Slice in the fridge for at least 2 hours or until the jelly has fully set. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful, glossy finish that brings your dessert to life.

Step 6: Cut and Serve
Once the jelly has set, use the parchment paper to lift the slice out of the tin. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. Serve chilled, and consider garnishing with fresh fruit or whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. Each bite reveals the beautiful layers of coconut shortbread, creamy passionfruit filling, and vibrant jelly, making this Passionfruit Slice a treat to remember!

How to Store and Freeze Passionfruit Slice

Fridge: Store the Passionfruit Slice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. This keeps it fresh and maintains its layers’ delicious flavors.

Freezer: You can freeze the slice for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, ensuring you can enjoy tropical goodness later.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen slice in the fridge for several hours or overnight. Avoid using a microwave, as it may compromise the layers’ texture.

Serving Chilled: For the best taste and texture, serve your Passionfruit Slice chilled straight from the fridge. It’s a refreshing treat that’s hard to resist!

Make Ahead Options

This Easy Passionfruit Slice is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to save time and reduce stress on busy days. You can prepare the coconut shortbread base and the passionfruit filling up to 24 hours in advance—just let them cool and refrigerate them separately. For optimal freshness, cover them tightly in plastic wrap or store in airtight containers to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply reassemble by pouring the jelly topping over the filled base and chilling until set, allowing for a delightful dessert that’s just as delicious as when freshly made! This preparation will keep your slice’s vibrant layers intact and ensure a perfect presentation.

Expert Tips for Passionfruit Slice

Perfect Mixing: Ensure thorough mixing of the filling to avoid lumps, which can create an uneven texture in your Passionfruit Slice.
Cooling Time: Allow the coconut base to cool slightly before adding the filling; this helps prevent it from seeping through the base.
Gelatine Knowledge: Read gelatine package instructions carefully if substituting; incorrect measurements can lead to a runny topping.
Chilling is Key: Don’t rush the chilling process; give the jelly enough time to set completely for that ideal texture and glossy finish.
Serving Style: For a beautiful presentation, garnish with fresh passionfruit seeds or a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving.

What to Serve with Easy Passionfruit Slice

Indulging in this tropical treat is just the beginning; pair it with delightful accompaniments to elevate the experience.

Coconut Sorbet: A refreshing tropical treat that matches the coconut notes of the slice, adding another layer of flavor.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries bring a burst of sweetness and a contrasting tartness that complements the slice beautifully.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this classic topping softens the slice’s tanginess while adding a luxurious touch that everyone loves.
Mango Chutney: This sweet and slightly spicy chutney creates an unexpected flavor twist that harmonizes perfectly with the slice’s tropical profile.
Iced Tea: A cool glass of citrus-infused iced tea enhances the flavor journey, balancing the slice’s sweetness with vibrant notes.
Chocolate Ganache: Drizzled over the top, rich chocolate creates a delightful contrast to the passionfruit’s zest, creating decadent bites.
Chilled Sparkling Wine: This effervescent drink provides a bubbly contrast, enhancing the refreshing experience of the passionfruit slice while making any occasion feel special.
Macadamia Nuts: Chopped and sprinkled on top, they add a crunchy texture and complement the tropical essence of the dish with their buttery flavor.
Pineapple Salsa: A vibrant mixture of fresh pineapple, cilantro, and lime creates a zesty contrast—perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors by the slice.

Passionfruit Slice Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful variations to enhance your Passionfruit Slice, bringing even more tropical joy to your table.

Tropical Twist: Swap passionfruit with mango or guava pulp for a different fruity flavor that still delivers tropical charm. Each alternative provides a unique sweet and tangy balance!
Nutty Base: Replace the coconut in the shortbread with finely ground almonds or hazelnuts for a rich, nutty flavor and a delightful crunch. It adds an unexpected twist to your beloved dessert!
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute sweetened condensed milk with coconut milk or almond milk mixed with a thickening agent for a creamy, dairy-free version. This way, everyone can indulge!
Flavor Infusion: Try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the filling for a warm undertone that complements the brightness of passionfruit beautifully. It’s a small change that makes a big impact!
Gluten-Free Goodness: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of plain flour for a perfect alternative that maintains the texture. Everyone can enjoy this tropical treat, no matter the dietary restrictions!
Extra Zing: Incorporating a bit of zest from fresh lime or lemon into the filling augments the citrusy flavor, enhancing its brightness. It adds an exciting layer of flavor too!
Chili Kick: For the adventurous, add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the jelly topping for a playful heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. It’s a delightful surprise in every bite!
Fruit Garnish: Top your slices with fresh fruit like berries or whipped coconut cream to elevate presentation and flavor. It not only looks stunning but tastes heavenly!

Mix and match with these variations to make your Passionfruit Slice your own—maybe even discovering a new favorite along the way! If you’re intrigued by a twist on flavor, you might enjoy my Whiskey Honey Pie recipe for another inspired take on dessert adventures!

Passionfruit Slice Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my passionfruit is ripe?
Absolutely! A ripe passionfruit should feel heavy in your hand and have a slightly wrinkled, maroon to yellow skin. Avoid any fruits with dark spots or a soft, mushy feel. If it’s too firm, give it a little more time to ripen on the countertop, and you’ll be rewarded with that sweet, tangy goodness!

How should I store my Passionfruit Slice?
For freshness, store your Passionfruit Slice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Keeping it covered prevents it from absorbing unwanted smells while maintaining its delightful layers. I often find this is the best way to enjoy a slice of paradise every day!

Can I freeze the Passionfruit Slice?
Yes! You can freeze your Passionfruit Slice for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw it in the fridge overnight to maintain that perfect texture.

What if my jelly doesn’t set properly?
Very! If your jelly doesn’t set, it could be due to not fully hydrating the gelatine or the mixture being too warm when poured over the filling. Make sure to allow the gelatine to hydrate fully, and always ensure it cools slightly before topping. If it’s still runny after chilling, consider adding a bit more gelatine to your next batch.

Is this Passionfruit Slice suitable for those with allergies?
Well, it depends! The recipe does contain dairy (butter and sweetened condensed milk) and gluten (flour). For dairy-free options, substitute butter with margarine and use coconut milk in place of sweetened condensed milk. For a gluten-free option, simply use a gluten-free flour blend. If you’re unsure, please consult an allergist!

Can I use other fruits instead of passionfruit?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other tropical fruit pulps like mango or guava for a unique twist. For best results, strive to maintain a similar quantity to achieve that luscious filling and vibrant topping!