Mango and Passionfruit Bars

Creamy, tropical, and utterly delicious, Mango and Passionfruit Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply craving a sweet escape, these bars deliver vibrant flavors without the need for baking. Made with wholesome ingredients, they are dairy-free and coconut-free, making them a great choice for various dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-Bake Convenience: Enjoy a delicious dessert without turning on the oven. Perfect for warm days!
• Tropical Flavor: The combination of mango and passionfruit creates a refreshing taste that transports you to an island paradise.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nuts and fruits, these bars are nutritious while satisfying your sweet tooth.
• Versatile Dessert: Great for parties, picnics, or just a cozy night in. They please everyone!
• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful dessert in no time.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• High-speed blender
• 8-inch (20cm) square cake pan
• Parchment paper
• Small saucepan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Food Processor: Essential for creating the crust by breaking down nuts and dates into a sticky mixture.
• High-Speed Blender: Ensures a smooth filling by blending cashews and other ingredients into creamy perfection.
• Parchment Paper: Makes it easier to remove the bars from the pan once set.

Ingredients

Creamy mango cheesecake bars that are no-bake, packed with wholesome ingredients and are coconut-free! These bars are perfect for Summer or when you want to feel like you’re on a tropical island!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup (160g) roasted or raw almonds (hazelnuts, or any other nut/seed)
– 1/2 cup (100g) pitted dates (soaked in boiling water for 10 minutes)
– 2 cups (260g) raw cashews (soaked in boiling water for 10 minutes)
– 150g frozen or fresh mango chunks (approx 1 1/2 medium-size mangoes)
– 3/4 cup (170g) thick dairy-free yogurt (unsweetened)
– 1/3 cup (115g) maple syrup (or to taste)
– 1/3 cup (75g) melted cacao butter (or 115g melted vegan white chocolate)
– 1/4 cup (60g) lemon juice (lime juice or passionfruit pulp)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
– Pinch of salt
– 200g frozen or fresh mango chunks (approx 2 medium-size mangoes)
– 1 1/2 tablespoons (14g) cornstarch / corn flour
– ~1/4 cup (65g) passionfruit pulp (approx 2 medium-size passionfruit)
– 2 tablespoons (30g) lemon juice (or lime juice, optional)

How to Make Mango and Passionfruit Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Line an 8-inch square cake pan with parchment paper overhanging the sides. This will help you easily remove the cheesecake later.

Step 2: Make the Base

1. Add the nuts to a food processor and process until they form coarse crumbs.
2. Drain the dates and discard the soaking water. Add them to the food processor.
3. Process until the dates break down completely and combine with the nut mixture. It should stick together when pinched.
4. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared cake pan.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. Drain the soaked cashews and discard their soaking liquid.
2. In a high-speed blender, add the cashews along with all remaining filling ingredients.
3. Blend until smooth and thick cream forms. Adjust sweetness if necessary.
4. Pour this filling over your base in the cake pan. Smooth out with a spoon or spatula.
5. Cover it with cling film and place it in the fridge for at least 4 hours to set.

Step 4: Create the Topping

1. Puree additional mango using a blender until smooth.
2. In a small saucepan, combine mango puree, passionfruit pulp, and cornstarch.
3. Heat over medium heat while whisking continuously until thickened.
4. Once your bars have set in the fridge, pour this fruity topping over them evenly.

Step 5: Final Touches

Place the bars back in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to allow everything to set properly.
Once ready, remove from the pan using parchment paper edges, slice into servings, and enjoy! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days or freeze for one month.

These Mango and Passionfruit Bars are not just tasty; they bring joy with every bite!

How to Serve Mango and Passionfruit Bars

Mango and Passionfruit Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply indulging yourself, here are some tasty serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Tropical fruit platter: Pair the bars with slices of fresh mango, pineapple, and kiwi for a refreshing contrast.
• Berry drizzle: Top the bars with a mix of strawberries and blueberries to add both color and flavor.

As a Dessert Topping

• Ice cream topping: Crumble the bars over vegan ice cream for an extra creamy dessert.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer pieces of the bar in a bowl of dairy-free yogurt with granola and fresh fruit.

At Summer Gatherings

• Picnic treat: Pack the bars for outdoor events; they transport well and are perfect for warm weather.
• Barbecue dessert: Serve them chilled after a savory barbecue meal; their tropical flavors complement grilled dishes beautifully.

How to Perfect Mango and Passionfruit Bars

Achieving the perfect Mango and Passionfruit Bars requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out just right.

• Chill thoroughly: Ensure the bars set in the fridge for at least 4 hours; this helps achieve a firm texture.
• Use ripe mangoes: For the best flavor, select ripe mangoes that are soft to touch but not overripe.
• Adjust sweetness wisely: Taste the filling before pouring it into the crust. You can always add more maple syrup if needed.
• Smooth out the filling: Blend until completely smooth to avoid any grainy texture in your cheesecake layer.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add different fruits or sauces on top to customize your dessert.

Best Side Dishes for Mango and Passionfruit Bars

Mango and Passionfruit Bars pair wonderfully with several side dishes that enhance their tropical flavor profile. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Coconut Rice Salad: A light salad made with coconut milk, rice, and fresh herbs that complements the bars’ flavors.
2. Chilled Cucumber Soup: Refreshing soup that’s perfect for summer, balancing out the richness of the mango bars.
3. Tropical Quinoa Salad: Quinoa mixed with diced mango, bell peppers, and lime dressing adds a nutritious side kick.
4. Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Sweet caramelized pineapple skewers bring an extra burst of tropical sweetness.
5. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on whole-grain bread provides a savory contrast to the sweet bars.
6. Minted Watermelon Slices: Lightly seasoned watermelon slices offer hydration and freshness alongside your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mango and Passionfruit Bars, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the soaking process: Failing to soak the cashews and dates can lead to a gritty texture. Always soak them in boiling water for at least 10 minutes for a smoother filling.
• Not measuring ingredients properly: Using too much or too little of any ingredient can affect the flavor and texture. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy, especially for nuts and fruits.
• Rushing the chilling time: Cutting into the bars before they are fully set can result in a messy presentation. Allow at least 4 hours in the fridge to firm up properly.
• Ignoring the base mixture consistency: If the nut and date mix is too crumbly, it won’t hold together when pressed into the pan. Ensure that it sticks together when pinched, adjusting with more dates if needed.
• Overheating the topping: Cooking the mango topping on too high heat can cause it to become too thick or burn. Always whisk continuously over medium heat until just thickened.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep in the fridge to maintain freshness and prevent melting.

Freezing Mango and Passionfruit Bars

• Freeze for up to 1 month in an airtight container.
• Wrap bars individually in plastic wrap before placing in a container for easier thawing.

Reheating Mango and Passionfruit Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat a single bar on low power (20-30 seconds). Check frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Warm each bar for about 2-3 minutes until soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mango and Passionfruit Bars are a delightful treat that often raises questions. Here are some FAQs:

Can I use other fruits in Mango and Passionfruit Bars?

You can substitute with other tropical fruits like pineapple or papaya for a different flavor profile while keeping the creamy texture.

How do I make Mango and Passionfruit Bars gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t require any flour. Just ensure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free if necessary.

What is the best way to serve Mango and Passionfruit Bars?

Serve chilled as a refreshing dessert after meals or as a snack during warm weather. They pair wonderfully with fresh fruit on top!

Are Mango and Passionfruit Bars suitable for vegans?

Yes, these bars are entirely vegan as they contain no animal products, making them perfect for plant-based diets.

How can I customize my Mango and Passionfruit Bars?

Feel free to add toppings like coconut flakes, chia seeds, or even drizzle with vegan chocolate for added flair!

Final Thoughts

Mango and Passionfruit Bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. The creamy texture combined with tropical flavors makes them perfect for summer gatherings or cozy nights at home. Customize them with your favorite toppings or fruit combinations! Give this delightful recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!