Save Last July when my AC died during a heatwave I discovered that drinking something cold and pretty makes everything 10% more bearable. I had a bag of frozen mango taking up half my freezer space and some wrinkled passion fruits Id bought on impulse from the discount bin. The first attempt looked like a muddy disaster but by glass two I figured out the tilt and pour technique that actually makes the layers show up.
I made these for my nieces birthday brunch last spring and she sat there staring at her glass for five solid minutes before finally drinking it. She took a photo first obviously then sent it to her friends group chat. Later that afternoon her mom texted me for the recipe because apparently it was the most exciting thing at a table full of waffles and pastries.
Ingredients
- Ripe mango fresh or frozen: Frozen is actually better here because it creates thicker layers that dont blend into each other
- Plain Greek yogurt: This is what makes each layer substantial enough to stay distinct instead of just mixing into a single color
- Passion fruit pulp: The seeds add this tiny crunch that people notice but cant quite place
- Freshly squeezed orange juice: Bottled juice works but fresh makes the top layer taste actually bright instead of vaguely citric
- Honey: Start with less than you think you need frozen mango is usually sweet enough on its own
Instructions
- Prep your station:
- Set out three clean bowls or cups and rinse your blender between layers so the mango doesnt turn everything yellow
- Blend the mango layer:
- Combine mango yogurt honey and a splash of water then blend until its completely smooth with no chunks
- Layer the mango base:
- Divide evenly between two glasses and place them in the freezer for 5 minutes to firm up slightly
- Make the passion fruit middle:
- Rinse the blender and blend passion fruit pulp with yogurt and honey until creamy but still thick
- Add the middle layer:
- Tilt each glass about 45 degrees and slowly pour the passion fruit mixture over the back of a spoon so it floats on top
- Blend the orange top:
- Rinse again then blend orange juice yogurt and honey until smooth and frothy
- Finish with the final layer:
- Keep tilting the glass and pour slowly over a spoon for clean lines then garnish if you feel like it
Save My roommate walked in while I was photographing these for Instagram and immediately asked if Id bought them from some overpriced café. When I told her they took 10 minutes she didnt believe me until she saw the blender on the counter. Now whenever she has friends over she texts me to make the pretty smoothies instead of just regular ones.
Make It Your Way
The mango layer works with frozen peaches or pineapple if thats what you have. I once used papaya in a pinch and it turned this lovely sunset pink that people were obsessed with. Just match the fruit to the season and it still feels intentional.
Dairy Free Version
Coconut yogurt creates slightly thinner layers but the taste works beautifully with mango and passion fruit. The coconut flavor comes through just enough to make it feel tropical without overwhelming the fruit.
Serving Suggestions
These show up best in straight sided glasses so the ombré is actually visible. Mason jars work if youre feeling rustic but any clear glass lets the colors do the work.
- Chill glasses in the freezer for 10 minutes before adding layers
- Use a bar spoon if you have one the long handle makes tilting easier
- Add mint right before serving so it doesnt wilt in the cold layers
Save Perfect for when you want breakfast to feel like a vacation without actually going anywhere.
Cooking Questions & Answers
- → How do you create the ombré effect in this drink?
Blend each fruit layer separately and pour them slowly over each other, tilting the glass and using a spoon's back to prevent mixing, creating distinct layers.
- → Can I use frozen fruits for this beverage?
Yes, using frozen mango and passion fruit helps achieve thicker layers and enhances the cold, refreshing texture.
- → Is there a dairy-free alternative for the creamy layers?
Substitute plain Greek yogurt with coconut or plant-based yogurt to make a dairy-free version without sacrificing creaminess.
- → How can I adjust the sweetness naturally?
Honey is added optionally and can be reduced or omitted; using ripe fruit also contributes natural sweetness to the drink.
- → What is the best way to serve this beverage?
Serve immediately after layering, chilled in clear glasses, garnished with fresh fruit slices or a sprig of mint for an appealing look.