If you’re searching for a dessert that perfectly balances elegance, freshness, and tropical indulgence, this Vanilla Cake with Passionfruit Curd, Whipped Coconut Cream, Mango, and Toasted Almonds is a showstopper.
It combines a moist vanilla sponge with tangy passionfruit curd, light coconut whipped cream, and juicy mango slices — all crowned with crunchy toasted almonds. Every bite offers a symphony of textures and flavors, making it ideal for summer celebrations, brunches, or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Vanilla Cake
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) milk
For the Passionfruit Curd
- ½ cup (120ml) passionfruit pulp (about 4–5 fruits)
- ½ cup (100g) sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickness)
For the Whipped Coconut Cream
- 1 can (400ml) full-fat coconut milk, chilled overnight
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For Topping and Assembly
- 1 ripe mango, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup (25g) toasted sliced almonds
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Serves: 8–10
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 25 minutes
Assembly Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vanilla Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 2: Make the Passionfruit Curd
- In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together passionfruit pulp, sugar, and egg yolks.
- Cook gently, stirring constantly until thickened (about 6–8 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in butter until smooth.
- Let the curd cool completely before using.
Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Coconut Cream
- Scoop out the thick cream from the top of the chilled coconut milk can (discard the liquid).
- Beat with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until fluffy peaks form.
- Chill until ready to assemble.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Slice the cooled vanilla cake horizontally into two layers (optional).
- Spread a layer of passionfruit curd on the bottom half, then top with whipped coconut cream.
- Add sliced mangoes and a sprinkle of toasted almonds.
- Place the second cake layer on top (if using) and repeat the curd, cream, and topping process.
- Garnish with extra almonds and mint leaves for presentation.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve slightly chilled for the best flavor and texture contrast.
- Pair with iced coffee, herbal tea, or sparkling wine.
- For a layered dessert presentation, assemble it in glass cups for individual servings.
- Add extra tropical fruits like pineapple or papaya for more variety.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 slice) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 |
| Protein | 6 grams |
| Total Fat | 18 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 11 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 44 grams |
| Sugars | 28 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 140 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Passionfruit and mango deliver a boost of vitamin C and natural sweetness.
- Coconut cream provides healthy fats for a satisfying texture.
- Almonds add crunch, protein, and vitamin E.
- This dessert is lighter than traditional buttercream cakes yet just as indulgent.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Ensure the coconut milk is fully chilled before whipping for a stable texture.
- Use ripe mangoes for natural sweetness and vibrant flavor.
- The passionfruit curd can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Lightly toast the almonds to enhance aroma and crunch.
Variations to Try
- Substitute lemon curd or raspberry curd for a tangy twist.
- Replace almonds with pistachios or macadamia nuts for a different nutty finish.
- Use gluten-free flour to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
- Add a touch of rum or coconut liqueur to the whipped cream for an adult-friendly version.
This Vanilla Cake with Passionfruit Curd, Whipped Coconut Cream, Mango, and Toasted Almonds is a masterpiece of tropical indulgence. Light yet decadent, fruity yet creamy — it’s the kind of dessert that turns any gathering into a celebration.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, birthday, or beach-inspired dinner, this cake brings sunshine to every plate. Make it once, and it might just become your signature dessert.