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There’s something truly enchanting about the vibrant yellow pulp of passion fruit, bursting with sunshine and tropical flair. When I first tried a slice of Passion Fruit Cake at a friend’s gathering, the perfect blend of sweet and tangy left me craving more. Fast forward to today, and here I am, sharing my simple yet delightful take on this refreshing dessert that promises to elevate any tea time or special occasion.

This Moist Passion Fruit Drizzle Cake boasts a velvety texture that whispers of indulgence while being surprisingly easy to whip up in just one bowl. Imagine a soft sponge cake drizzled with a citrusy syrup, sending a delightful aroma through your kitchen as it bakes. Perfect for dessert enthusiasts and those seeking a break from mundane fast food, this cake serves not only as a treat but also as a conversation starter. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy bake that captures the essence of tropical bliss!

Why is this Passion Fruit Cake a must-try?

Deliciously tropical: With its bright, zesty flavor, this cake transports you on a vacation with every bite.
One-bowl wonder: Simplify your baking experience, as you’ll only need one bowl to create this moist masterpiece.
Visual appeal: The golden color and syrupy drizzle make it an eye-catching centerpiece for any gathering.
Versatile dessert: Perfect for tea time or as a light dessert, this cake easily adapts to any occasion.
Quick and easy: Enjoy the joy of baking without the long prep time—it’s ready in no time!

Passion Fruit Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
Caster Sugar – Provides sweetness and texture; granulated sugar works, but it may alter the texture.
Large Eggs – Essential for structure and moisture; make sure they’re at room temperature for best results.
Self-Raising Flour – Creates a light texture; substitute with all-purpose flour plus 1 tsp of baking powder per 100g.
Salt – Enhances flavors; crucial for balancing the cake’s sweetness.
Sour Cream – Contributes moisture and richness; Greek yogurt or buttermilk can work as substitutes.

For the Drizzle

Passion Fruit – Infuses a unique tropical flavor; this is the star of your Passion Fruit Cake!
Limes – Adds acidity to balance the sweetness; fresh juice enhances the overall flavor profile.
Caster Sugar (for drizzle) – Sweetens and enriches the syrup topping, ensuring a delightful finish.

How to Make Passion Fruit Cake

Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (or 160°C for fan-assisted). This ensures your cake bakes evenly and beautifully as you prepare the batter.
Prepare the tin: Grease a 1.2 L loaf tin and line it with parchment paper. This step keeps your cake from sticking and makes for easy removal once baked.
Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar using an electric mixer until pale and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This creates a light base for your cake.
Add the eggs: Gradually add the beaten eggs, roughly a tablespoon at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is well incorporated.
Incorporate the flour: Sift in half of the self-raising flour along with salt, gently folding it into the mixture until just combined. This helps maintain the airy quality of your batter.
Mix in sour cream: Gently fold in the sour cream until fully combined. Now, sift in the remaining flour and fold until you have a smooth, thick batter that looks delightful and feels rich.
Bake the cake: Transfer your batter into the prepared tin, smoothing the top. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare the drizzle: While the cake cools, extract the juice from the passion fruits and mix it with the lime juice. Once the cake has cooled, poke a few holes in it and brush half of the juice mixture over the top.
Finish with syrup: Combine the remaining juice with the reserved seeds and sprinkle some sugar into it. Pour this over the cake, allowing it to soak in for maximum flavor.

Optional: Garnish with fresh passion fruit seeds for a pop of color and added crunch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Passion Fruit Cake Variations

Customize your cake to delight every palate and occasion with these creative twists!

Tropical Twist: Substitute passion fruit with mango or guava for an exciting new flavor profile in each bite. The fruity explosion will create a unique dessert experience!
Citrus Burst: Swap lime for lemon or even orange juice in the drizzle for a different zesty kick. This subtle shift adds a refreshing dimension to your cake.
Nutty Flavor: Add a half-cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch and flavor. The added texture brings delightful surprise with every slice.
Chocolate Delight: Stir in a half-cup of dark or white chocolate chips into the batter for a rich, indulgent cake. Chocolate and passion fruit create a heavenly blend that’s hard to resist!
Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water, and use plant-based yogurt instead of sour cream for a delicious vegan cake. This keeps the tropical flavors while catering to dietary needs.
Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, cozy twist. This unexpected flavor will surprise and comfort anyone at your table.
Gluten-Free: Substitute self-raising flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour mixed with baking powder for a gluten-free delight. It’s an easy switch that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Extra Drizzle: Enhance the drizzle with a splash of coconut rum or vanilla extract for an added depth of flavor. This will elevate your cake’s tropical essence, making each bite unforgettable!

What to Serve with Passion Fruit Cake?

Treat your taste buds to a delightful experience by complementing this tropical dessert with delicious sides that enhance its vibrant flavors.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of tropical fruits enhances the cake’s flavors while providing a refreshing contrast.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Creamy and rich, this topping adds a luscious texture and a hint of the tropics. Serve it on the side for a divine pairing!
Vanilla Ice Cream: The sweet creaminess of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful balance with the tangy cake, making each bite irresistible.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: The crispness of iced tea or a zesty lemonade offers a refreshing sip that cuts through the cake’s sweetness perfectly.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with passion fruit pulp and granola for a texture-packed treat that echoes the cake’s tropical theme, making it a wonderful morning option.
Lime Sorbet: The zesty chill of lime sorbet complements the cake beautifully, providing a refreshing finish that cleanses the palate.
Chocolate Drizzle: For an unexpected twist, drizzle warm, melted chocolate over the cake right before serving to entice the chocolate lovers at your table.
Sparkling Water with Fruit Infusion: Flavorful sparkling water infused with citrus will lighten the meal, providing a perfect thirst-quencher that brings out the cake’s tropical vibe.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy bites echo the tropical theme, enhancing the exotic experience of enjoying passion fruit cake. They offer a sweet crunch alongside each slice.

Expert Tips for the Best Passion Fruit Cake

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.

• Proper Mixing: Take care not to overmix the batter; gently fold when combining ingredients to keep your Passion Fruit Cake light and fluffy.

• Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool for at least 10-15 minutes before adding the drizzle. This prevents it from becoming too soggy.

• Juice Preparation: Strain the passion fruit juice to remove seeds before mixing it with the lime juice for a smoother drizzle.

• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

How to Store and Freeze Passion Fruit Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it moist and delicious.

Fridge: If you prefer to keep it longer, you can refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to a week, but it may lose some moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake (without syrup) for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating: Thaw frozen cake in the fridge overnight before adding the drizzle. Reheat individual slices gently in the microwave or enjoy at room temperature!

Make Ahead Options

These Moist Passion Fruit Drizzle Cakes are perfect for meal prep! You can bake the cake up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its moisture and texture. For the best results, wait to add the drizzle until you’re ready to serve the cake—this prevents it from becoming soggy. The drizzle can also be prepared 24 hours ahead by mixing the passion fruit and lime juices. Simply cover it and refrigerate. When it’s time to serve, poke holes in the cooled cake, brush it with half of the juice mixture, and pour the remaining syrup over the top for that irresistible tropical flavor. Enjoy delicious, homemade cake with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Passion Fruit Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe passion fruit?
Absolutely! When selecting passion fruit, look for ones that are wrinkled and slightly firm to the touch. The wrinkles indicate that it’s ripe and full of flavor. If you find smooth-skinned fruit, it may not be ripe yet.

How should I store leftovers?
Very simple! Store any leftover Passion Fruit Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it moist and flavor-rich. If you’re in a cooler climate, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, but remember it might lose some moisture.

Can I freeze my Passion Fruit Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze the cake, do so without the syrup. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before adding the drizzle.

What if my cake sinks in the middle?
Ah, the dreaded sinking! If your cake sinks, this can often be due to overmixing the batter or underbaking. To avoid this, gently fold the ingredients together and make sure to bake until a toothpick comes out clean, usually around 1 hour. Always check that your oven temperature is accurate too!

Is this cake suitable for those with allergies?
Yes, but with caution! The Passion Fruit Cake contains eggs and dairy (butter and sour cream), which may not be suitable for those with egg or dairy allergies. You can substitute with aquafaba for eggs and use dairy-free butter or Greek yogurt to make this cake a bit friendlier for those dietary restrictions.

Can I use other fruits for this recipe?
Oh, the more the merrier! While passion fruit shines in this recipe, feel free to experiment with other tropical fruits like mango or guava. You can also add a splash of orange juice for a different citrusy flair in the drizzle. Have fun with it and let your taste buds guide you!