Esponjado de Guanábana
ColombianDessert

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

Esponjado de Guanábana is a beloved Colombian dessert that showcases the unique flavor of soursop, a tropical fruit prized throughout Latin America. This mousse-like treat combines the tangy sweetness of soursop with the richness of condensed milk and the airiness of whipped cream to create a cloud-like texture that melts in your mouth. Traditional recipes have been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own special touch. The dessert is typically served chilled in individual glasses or bowls, making it perfect for warm weather gatherings. The natural sweetness of the soursop means less added sugar is needed, while its distinctive flavor profile sets this dessert apart from typical mousses. Whether enjoyed after a family meal or at celebrations, this esponjado captures the essence of Colombian home cooking and tropical abundance.

Instructions

step by step
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  1. If using fresh soursop, cut the fruit in half and scoop out the white pulp into a bowl. Remove all black seeds and any fibrous parts. If using frozen pulp, thaw completely and drain excess liquid. You should have about 2 cups of clean pulp.

  2. Place the soursop pulp in a blender or food processor. Add the sweetened condensed milk and blend on medium speed until smooth and well combined, about 1-2 minutes. The mixture should be creamy with no large chunks remaining.

  3. In a large mixing bowl, pour the heavy cream. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with whisk attachment, beat the cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to overwhip.

  4. Gently fold the soursop mixture into the whipped cream using a rubber spatula. Use a folding motion from bottom to top to maintain the airiness. Continue until no white streaks remain and the mixture is uniform in color.

  5. Taste and add sugar if desired, folding gently to incorporate. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance flavors, folding once more.

  6. Divide the mousse among 6 serving glasses or bowls. Cover each with plastic wrap, ensuring the wrap touches the surface to prevent a skin from forming.

  7. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until well chilled and set. The esponjado will firm up slightly but maintain its light, airy texture.

  8. Before serving, garnish with a small mint leaf or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired. Serve cold directly from the refrigerator.

Esponjado de Guanábana

5.0 (28)

A light and airy Colombian soursop mousse made with fresh soursop pulp, sweetened condensed milk, and whipped cream. This tropical dessert is refreshingly sweet with a delicate citrus undertone.

easy
20 min
6 servings

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups guava, fresh pulp, seeds removed, or thawed if frozen
  • 2 cups heavy-cream, cold
  • 3/4 cups milk, sweetened condensed

Flavorings

  • 1 teaspoons vanilla-extract (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons honey (optional)
  • 1/8 teaspoons salt (optional)
  • 1 pieces lime, juice only (optional)

Garnish

  • 1/4 teaspoons cinnamon, ground (optional)

Chef Tips

expert advice
For the best flavor, use ripe soursop that yields slightly to pressure and has a sweet aroma.
If fresh soursop is unavailable, frozen pulp works wonderfully and is often easier to find in Latin markets.
The key to a perfect esponjado is not overwhipping the cream - stop as soon as soft peaks form to maintain a silky texture.
Some families add a splash of lime juice to brighten the flavor, while others incorporate a tablespoon of cream cheese for extra richness.
For a lighter version, you can replace half the heavy cream with Greek yogurt.
This dessert can be made a day ahead, making it ideal for entertaining.
Children love this treat, and it is a great way to introduce them to tropical fruits.
For an elegant presentation, layer the mousse with crushed Maria cookies or graham crackers in parfait glasses.
The natural tanginess of soursop pairs beautifully with the sweetness of condensed milk, creating a balanced dessert that is not overly heavy.
Esponjado de Guanábana | Cuisinao