Tropical Passion Fruit Bars

These Tropical Passion Fruit Bars have become my ultimate summer treat Each bite is bursting with tangy fruit flavor balanced by a buttery crumbly base making them a crowd favorite whenever I bring them to picnics or family get togethers

My family is obsessed with the sweet tart filling and golden crust I first made these with fresh passion fruit from our garden and now my nieces grab the biggest pieces whenever they visit

Ingredients

• All purpose flour: gives structure and tenderness to both the crust and filling select a fresh bag for best results
• Granulated sugar: provides sweetness and helps the crust hold together check for clump free sugar
• Unsalted butter melted: ensures a rich flavor and tender crumb go for high quality butter if possible
• Passion fruit puree: brings that irresistible tropical zing choose a puree with no added sweeteners for the best tangy bite
• Large eggs: add richness and set the filling fresher eggs will result in a creamier bar
• Baking powder: helps lift and firm the filling so it slices neatly choose a brand with a recent expiration date
• Salt: balances flavors and brings out the tang of the fruit opt for fine sea salt to blend evenly
• Powdered sugar: adds a final dusting of sweetness sift before sprinkling to prevent clumps

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Pan:

Line your eight inch square baking dish with parchment paper allowing a slight overhang on the sides for easy removal later This is key for neat squares

Make the Crust:

In a medium mixing bowl gently mix together the one cup flour and quarter cup granulated sugar Use a whisk to break up any lumps Pour in the melted butter and stir thoroughly with a spatula until the mixture forms coarse moist crumbs

Press and Bake the Crust:

Pour the crumbly dough into your prepared baking dish Press it down firmly and evenly with the back of a measuring cup to form a compact layer Bake in your preheated oven at three hundred and fifty degrees Fahrenheit for fifteen minutes The edges should look slightly golden when ready

Prepare the Filling:

In another mixing bowl whisk together the one and a half cups sugar and passion fruit puree until smooth Crack in the eggs one at a time whisking well after each addition to make sure the filling is creamy and lump free

Combine Dry Ingredients:

Sift in the remaining half cup flour baking powder and salt directly into the filling mixture This ensures the dry ingredients are evenly spread through the batter Stir gently until just combined Overmixing can lead to a rubbery filling

Assemble and Bake:

Pour the filling over your pre baked crust Using a spatula gently spread it to the edges Bake for twenty to twenty five minutes The filling should look set and barely jiggle when you shake the pan

Cool and Chill:

Place the baking dish on a wire rack to cool completely Once cooled cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour This improves the texture and makes slicing neat bars much easier

Finish and Serve:

Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment handles Transfer to a cutting board Dust generously with powdered sugar before slicing into squares for serving

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Passion fruit puree really is the star here I love using it for the beautiful tartness and golden color There is something special about the scent as I whisk it in reminding me of sunny weekends in our backyard with my little cousins helping stir and sneak tastes

Storage Tips

Store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days Place a sheet of wax paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking If you want to freeze them wrap tightly in plastic and store in freezer safe bags They will keep well for up to two months and can be thawed overnight in the fridge Dust with extra powdered sugar after thawing for the best presentation

Ingredient Substitutions

You do not have to stick strictly to passion fruit Try mango puree or pineapple puree for a milder or sweeter flavor Shredded coconut in the crust can add chewy texture For nut lovers a sprinkle of macadamia nuts over the filling before baking can give an extra crunch When passion fruit is not available bottled puree from international markets works well as long as it is pure with no added sugar

Serving Suggestions

Cut your passion fruit bars into generous squares or bite sized cubes for dessert platters These bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of coconut ice cream for a true tropical vibe For a brunch spread place small squares atop mini meringues for a delicious twist Bars can also be enjoyed cold straight from the fridge topped with extra fresh passion fruit seeds for garnish if you find them

A Bit of Background

Passion fruit is treasured in many tropical cultures for its fragrant tart pulp These luscious bars draw inspiration from classic lemon squares but swap in the zesty tropical flavor beloved in Brazilian and Hawaiian baking Growing up I always thought anything passion fruit was a celebration food so these bars are a bright way to bring a little sunshine to any table

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I always look forward to making these passion fruit bars when company comes over Every bite is a reminder of warm afternoons and laughter around the table and I promise you will find yourself craving their tangy sweetness all year round

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I make the crust set perfectly?

Press the crumb mixture firmly and bake until lightly golden before adding the filling. This ensures a sturdy base.

→ Can I use bottled passion fruit juice instead of puree?

Puree gives the best texture and flavor, but strained bottled juice works if thickened slightly with a bit of extra flour.

→ What other fruits can I substitute for passion fruit?

Mango, pineapple, or a blend of both create delicious tropical variations with similar consistency.

→ How do I know the bars are done baking?

The filling should be set in the center but jiggle slightly. Overbaking dries out the texture, so watch closely.

→ Do the bars need refrigeration before serving?

Yes, chilling the bars helps them firm up for clean slicing and enhances the fresh tropical flavors.