In a world craving flavour-driven escapism, desserts are embracing the tropical, textural and delightfully unexpected.
Think passionfruit mousse encased in a crisp white chocolate shell, resting on a bed of coconut sable and mango gel – a sensory holiday in every bite.
Australian Pastry Chefs are playing with punchy island flavours like guava, lychee, calamansi and pandan, layering them with surprising elements like popping candy, compressed pineapple or roasted macadamias for crunch.
Tropical trifle gets a modern makeover with coconut pannacotta, rum-soaked sponge and charred banana, while yuzu granita tops off silky avocado cream. These desserts don’t just transport the palate – they tell a story of sun-drenched shores, vibrant colour and culinary creativity.
With textures that contrast and flavours that zing, escapist desserts invite diners to escape the ordinary and indulge in a little edible wanderlust, no passport required. It's nostalgia and novelty wrapped in one indulgent, tropical moment.
Here are five indulgent desserts to escape with at home:
Escape to the tropics with a piña colada tart - where creamy coconut cream meets zesty pineapple filling in a crisp, buttery shell. Finished with lime or lemon rind and coconut flakes to serve, this dessert is a refreshing, textural twist on the classic cocktail, perfect for indulgent island daydreaming.
Chocolate and avocado create a luscious, nutrient-rich pairing in cakes. Avocado adds moisture and a creamy texture, replacing butter or oil while delivering healthy fats. When blended with rich cocoa, its subtle flavour vanishes, leaving an indulgent, velvety crumb that's both decadent and surprisingly wholesome - a guilt-free twist on classic chocolate cake.
There’s a lot to love in this mango tart - from the homemade sweet pastry and frangipane filling to the fruity passionfruit honey. Frangipane is a rich, almond-based filling with a buttery texture and nutty sweetness, perfect for tarts, pastries and classic desserts.
Avocado for dessert? Trust us - this avocado, lime and coconut cheesecake is a must-try. Smooth and delicious, it will be a hit at your next get-together or dinner party.
Serve up a next-level dessert thanks to these coconut and lime crème brûlées. Caramelised on top with soft creamy centres, they just melt in your mouth. Crème brûlée is a classic French dessert featuring silky vanilla custard beneath a crisp, caramelised sugar crust - rich, elegant and irresistibly textural with every spoonful.
