Passionfruit curd

Passionfruit curd is a tangy, creamy spread made from fresh passionfruit, butter, sugar, and egg yolks. This vibrant curd enhances a variety of desserts, scones, and breakfasts with its unique tropical flavor.

15 Feb 2026
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1 cup passion fruit
2/3 cup butter
1 cup sugar
6 yolks

Passionfruit curd is a delightful, tangy, and creamy spread perfect for enhancing your desserts, scones, or even toast. This rich and vibrant curd bursts with the unique tropical flavor of passionfruit, making it a versatile addition to your culinary creations. Let's dive into this simple yet delicious recipe.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
- If you are using fresh passion fruits, cut them in half and scoop out the pulp, including the seeds. If you prefer a smoother curd, you can strain the pulp to remove the seeds.
- Separate the egg yolks from the whites and set the yolks aside in a medium mixing bowl.

2. Combine Butter and Sugar:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the butter and sugar.
- Heat over low to medium heat, stirring frequently until the butter is completely melted and the mixture is well combined.

3. Add Passion Fruit Pulp:
- Once the butter and sugar are combined, add the passion fruit pulp to the saucepan.
- Stir the mixture until it is well blended.

4. Integrate the Egg Yolks:
- Slowly add the egg yolks to the saucepan, whisking constantly to prevent the yolks from cooking too quickly and curdling.

5. Cook the Curd:
- Continue to cook the mixture over low to medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Ensure that you stir in a figure-eight motion to evenly heat the curd.
- Cook until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, which should take about 10-15 minutes. Do not let the mixture come to a boil as this can cause the eggs to scramble.

6. Strain the Curd (Optional):
- For an extra smooth curd, pour it through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. This will remove any cooked egg bits or passion fruit seeds.

7. Cool and Store:
- Allow the curd to cool to room temperature.
- Once cooled, transfer the curd to a jar or airtight container.
- Refrigerate the passionfruit curd. It will thicken more as it cools and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks.

8. Serving Suggestions:
- Passionfruit curd is delicious spread on toast, scones, or croissants.
- It can also be used as a filling for cakes, tarts, or pastries or as a topping for yogurt, pancakes, or ice cream.

Making passionfruit curd at home is a rewarding experience that results in a versatile and delicious addition to many dishes. Whether you use it to top your morning toast, swirl into yogurt, or even as a filling for tarts and cakes, this curd brings a burst of tropical sunshine to anything it touches. With these straightforward steps and handy tips, you'll achieve a beautifully smooth and flavorful passionfruit curd every time.

Passionfruit curd FAQ:

How long does it take to cook passionfruit curd?

Cooking passionfruit curd takes about 10-15 minutes over low to medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

What is the best way to store passionfruit curd?

Once cooled, transfer the passionfruit curd to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate. It can be stored for up to 1-2 weeks.

Can I substitute other fruits for the passion fruit in this curd recipe?

Yes, you can substitute other tart fruits like lemon, lime, or orange juice, but adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the fruit used.

What should the consistency of the curd be when it's done cooking?

The curd is done when it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. It will thicken further as it cools.

How can I prevent the egg yolks from scrambling while making the curd?

To prevent scrambling, slowly whisk the egg yolks into the warm mixture while constantly stirring to temper them.

Tips:

- Use fresh, ripe passion fruits for the best flavor. If fresh passion fruits are not available, you can use store-bought passion fruit pulp.

- Ensure the butter is at room temperature to aid in smooth incorporation into the mixture.

- Temper the egg yolks carefully to prevent them from scrambling; this step is crucial for a smooth, creamy curd.

- Stir the curd continuously while cooking to avoid lumps and ensure even thickening.

- Strain the cooked curd for the best texture; this helps remove any unintended egg bits and seeds.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 410kcal
Protein 3.81g
Carbohydrates 44g
Fiber 3.99g
Sugar 36g
Fat 24g

Passionfruit curd