Decadent Paris Brest with Passionfruit Curd Delight

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

When the aroma of freshly baked choux pastry fills the kitchen, you know something magical is about to happen. I recently discovered the captivating art of crafting Paris Brest, and let me tell you it s a culinary journey worth taking. With its light and airy structure encasing a luscious passionfruit curd, this French dessert transcends the ordinary.

It s perfect for special occasions, especially as a showstopper for Mother s Day, where the flavors and the love truly shine. Each bite combines the crunchy flaked almonds and colorful strawberries with a smooth, tangy filling that dances on your palate. If you re searching for a way to impress your family or guests while breaking free from the monotony of fast food, this Paris Brest is your answer. So roll up your sleeves and let s whip up this indulgent treat that s as delightful to make as it is to enjoy.

Why Love Paris Brest with Passionfruit Curd?

Indulgent in every sense, this dessert showcases the elegance of French pastry-making with a stunning passionfruit curd. Impressive enough for special occasions, it ll undoubtedly be the centerpiece of your gatherings. Effortless to whip up, even beginners will find joy in creating this masterpiece. Versatile too swap the passionfruit for your favorite fruit curd or berries! For the best serving experience, pair it with a warm cup of tea. A true crowd-pleaser, this dessert invites everyone to indulge in its luxurious flavors and textures.

Paris Brest with Passionfruit Curd Ingredients

Delve into making this elegant French dessert with these essential ingredients!

For the Choux Pastry

• Unsalted Butter Provides richness and flavor; can be substituted with margarine for a dairy-free option.
• Caster Sugar Adds sweetness and helps with structure; granulated sugar will work but may affect texture.
• Milk Contributes moisture; non-dairy milk like almond or soy is a great substitute.
• Plain Flour Essential for pastry structure; gluten-free flour blends can be used for a gluten-free option.
• Eggs Provides structure and aeration; for an egg-free alternative, consider flax or chia seed mixtures.
• Flaked Almonds Adds a delightful crunch; omit for nut-free, or replace with crushed cookies.

For the Passionfruit Curd

• Eggs Works together to create a luscious curd; can use egg alternatives as mentioned above.
• Caster Sugar Sweetens the curd and enhances flavors; use regular sugar if needed.
• Passionfruit Pulp Offers a unique tang; fresh fruit is the best, but canned pulp can substitute in a pinch.
• Lemon Juice Adds a bright acidity that balances sweetness; a must-have for flavor depth.
• Cornflour Thickens the curd beautifully; ensure it is mixed well for smooth consistency.
• Butter Adds creaminess to the curd; use non-dairy cream for a vegan option.

For Assembly

• Thickened Cream For whipping into a light filling; can be substituted with non-dairy cream.
• Strawberries Adds freshness and visual appeal; any berries can be swapped in.
• Icing Sugar For dusting to finish and add a touch of sweetness.

Prepare these ingredients and get ready to impress with your Paris Brest filled with passionfruit curd!

How to Make Paris Brest with Passionfruit Curd

1. Preheat the oven to 200 °C (fan-forced) and prepare a baking tray using marked baking paper. This ensures your pastry bakes evenly and doesn t stick, making assembly a breeze later on.
2. Combine butter, sugar, milk, and water in a saucepan, bringing the mixture to a light boil before removing it from heat. The melting butter will create a flavorful base for your choux pastry.
3. Stir in the plain flour until the mixture pulls away from the pan sides, then allow it to cool slightly. This step is key to achieving a smooth dough, so give it a good mixing!
4. Beat the cooled mixture using a whisk attachment while gradually adding the beaten eggs until a smooth dough forms. The dough will be glossy and slightly sticky, indicating it s ready for piping.
5. Pipe the dough into three overlapping circles on the lined tray for a beautiful presentation. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle the flaked almonds on top for added crunch.
6. Bake for 10 minutes at 200 °C, then reduce the temperature to 170 °C and bake for another 30 minutes until golden brown. Resist the urge to open the oven door, as this can affect the pastry s puffiness.
7. Prepare the passionfruit curd by whisking together the eggs, sugar, and passionfruit pulp over simmering water until the sugar dissolves. Add the butter in batches, mixing well to blend into a rich curd.
8. Mix lemon juice and cornflour together, then add to the curd mixture, cooking until thickened. It should coat the back of a spoon, signaling that it s ready to cool.
9. Cool the curd completely before slicing the pastry in half. Spread curd on the base, pipe in the cream, and decorate with fresh strawberries for a stunning finish.
10. Dust the top of your Paris Brest with icing sugar before serving, adding a touch of sweetness and making it look irresistible.

Optional: Serve with a cup of tea for the perfect afternoon indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Paris Brest Variations

Explore a delightful realm of customization to make this Paris Brest uniquely yours and tantalizingly irresistible!

• Citrus Burst: Swap passionfruit for lemon or lime curd for a zesty freshness that brightens every bite. The tangy twist will awaken your senses and add a sun-kissed flair to the dessert.
• Berry Goodness: Replace strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a seasonal change that oozes vibrant colors. Each berry brings a burst of sweetness alongside that creamy filling.
• Chocolate Indulgence: Top your dessert with chocolate shavings for an added layer of richness that chocolate lovers will swoon over. This luscious upgrade elevates the classic pastry experience.
• Nut-Free Sensation: Omit flaked almonds entirely for a nut-free option or replace them with crushed cookies for a crunchy surprise. The alternative adds an intriguing twist without compromising on texture.
• Creamy Coconut: Use coconut cream instead of thickened cream for a tropical note in your filling. The creamy coconut adds a rich flavor profile that s perfect for beachy vibes.
• Extra Heat: Infuse a hint of spice by adding finely chopped chili or a dash of cayenne to the passionfruit curd. This daring twist provides a playful kick that enhances the flavors beautifully.
• Savory Touch: Consider a savory curd option, like a roasted garlic or herb-infused variation, for a unique brunch twist on Paris Brest. This unexpected approach may spark some delightful conversations at your next gathering.
• Flavored Dough: Incorporate a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract into the choux pastry for a flavor bonus that complements the sweet filling. It adds an aromatic essence that will have everyone asking for your secret.

What to Serve with Paris Brest with Passionfruit Curd?

Imagine a lavish afternoon gathering, where the sweet aroma of baked delights fills the air and the laughter of loved ones resonates around the table. The Paris Brest with passionfruit curd is not just a dessert; it s an experience waiting for the perfect companions.

• Green Tea: This delicate beverage provides a soothing counterpoint to the indulgent flavors, enhancing the overall experience.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla adds a comforting richness that harmonizes perfectly with the tartness of the passionfruit curd.
• Fresh Berries: A medley of raspberries and blueberries offers a refreshing burst of sweetness, balancing the rich flavors beautifully.
• Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it complements the airy choux pastry and adds a touch of sweetness, enhancing every bite.

Pairing this decadent dessert with a drizzle of chocolate sauce would entice the chocolatiers in your life, making this an all-around hit. Don t forget a robust coffee; its boldness contrasts wonderfully with the lightness of the Paris Brest while providing a delightful caffeine kick.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Paris Brest with Passionfruit Curd ahead of time can save you precious moments on busy days! You can make the choux pastry and passionfruit curd a day in advance (up to 24 hours) and refrigerate them in airtight containers to maintain their quality. Just remember to re-whip the cream before using it to ensure it s light and fluffy. When you re ready to assemble, slice the pastry, spread the curd on the base, pipe in the cream, and add your fresh strawberries for a delightful touch. With this approach, you ll serve an elegant dessert that tastes just as delicious but requires minimal effort on the big day!

How to Store and Freeze Paris Brest with Passionfruit Curd

• Room Temperature: Enjoy freshly baked Paris Brest at room temperature for up to 1 hour after serving. This allows the pastry to maintain its crisp texture.
• Fridge: If you have leftovers, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps the passionfruit curd fresh while preventing the pastry from becoming soggy.
• Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the choux pastry (without filling) for up to 1 month. Wrap in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn.
• Reheating: To enjoy frozen pastry, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 180 °C (350 °F) oven for about 10 minutes to restore crispness before adding the passionfruit curd and assembly.

Expert Tips for Paris Brest with Passionfruit Curd

• Stir Constantly: Ensure you stir the dough continuously after adding flour to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth consistency.
• Avoid the Oven Door: Refrain from opening the oven door while the pastry is baking; it helps maintain puffiness and creates that light, airy texture.
• Cool Curds Properly: Allow the passionfruit curd to cool completely before using. Refrigerating it not only thickens the curd but enhances its flavors too.
• Perfect Piping: When piping your choux pastry, ensure your circles are even in size for consistent baking and a beautiful presentation.
• Substitution Awareness: If substituting ingredients, like using gluten-free flour or non-dairy options, be mindful that texture and flavor may slightly alter in your Paris Brest with passionfruit curd.

Paris Brest with Passionfruit Curd Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe passionfruits for the curd?
When choosing passionfruits, look for ones that are slightly wrinkled and feel heavy for their size. This indicates ripeness and sweetness. Avoid fruits with dark spots all over as they may be overripe or spoiled.

What s the best way to store leftovers?
Refrigerate any leftover Paris Brest in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This helps preserve the freshness of the passionfruit curd and keeps the pastry from becoming soggy.

Can I freeze the Paris Brest?
Absolutely! For the best results, you can freeze the choux pastry without the filling for up to 1 month. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in a sealed freezer bag. When you re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a preheated 180 °C (350 °F) oven for about 10 minutes to restore crispness. After that, you can fill with passionfruit curd and cream right before serving.

What if my choux pastry doesn t puff up during baking?
If your choux pastry doesn t puff up, it could be due to a few factors. Firstly, ensure you didn t open the oven door during baking, as this can cause a drop in temperature. Secondly, verify that you ve added enough liquid; the flour needs moisture to create steam that puffs up the pastry. Lastly, make sure the flour was mixed in well and the batter reached the right consistency smooth and glossy before piping.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies with this recipe?
This dessert contains several common allergens including eggs, dairy, and nuts (if using flaked almonds). It s best to keep this indulgence away from pets, especially chocolate, as it can be toxic. For those with severe allergies, consider adjusting the recipe using egg replacements like flaxseed, non-dairy cream instead of heavy cream, and gluten-free flour to accommodate various dietary needs while still enjoying this luxurious treat!

Can I prepare any components of the Paris Brest ahead of time?
Yes, indeed! I often make the choux pastry and the passionfruit curd a day in advance. Simply store them separately in the refrigerator. The pastry can be assembled just before serving to maintain its crispiness, while the curd can be kept chilled. This makes it easy to impress guests with minimal day-of stress!