Brazilian Papaya Cream (Creme de Papaya)

Name: Brazilian Papaya Cream (Creme de Papaya)
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Brazil
Ingredients: 2 lb (900 g) very ripe papaya, peeled and seeded; 1 pint (475 ml) good-quality vanilla ice cream, slightly softened; 2-3 tbsp (30-45 ml) orange liqueur such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier (optional); 2 tbsp (30 ml) fresh lime juice; 2 tbsp (25 g) sugar (only if needed, depending on papaya sweetness)

Creme de Papaya Say it: KREH-mee deh pah-PAH-yah

By the Passport Plate editors. Published November 11, 2026.

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Creme de Papaya is a beloved Brazilian dessert that originated in Rio de Janeiro in the 1980s. It consists of ripe papaya blended with creamy vanilla ice cream and a splash of orange liqueur, creating a silky, refreshing treat. The combination of sweet tropical fruit and cold ice cream makes it taste like a cross between a smoothie and a milkshake. It is especially popular in the heat of Brazilian summers and is often enjoyed as a quick, elegant finish to a meal at home or in restaurants.

Brazilian Papaya Cream (Creme de Papaya)

Creme de Papaya

Pronounced KREH-mee deh pah-PAH-yah

Serves: 4
Prep: 10 min
Cook: —
Total: 10 min
Level: Easy

Also nut-free and egg-free.

Allergens: contains milk. Check labels on packaged ingredients.

Ingredients

4 servings

2 lb (900 g)900 g (2 lb) very ripe papaya, peeled and seeded
1 pint (475 ml)475 ml (1 pint) good-quality vanilla ice cream, slightly softened
2-3 tbsp (30-45 ml)30-45 ml (2-3 tbsp) orange liqueur such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier (optional)
2 tbsp (30 ml)30 ml (2 tbsp) fresh lime juice
2 tbsp (25 g)25 g (2 tbsp) sugar (only if needed, depending on papaya sweetness)

Method

Cut the peeled and seeded papaya into large chunks. Place them in a blender.
Add the slightly softened vanilla ice cream, orange liqueur if using, lime juice, and sugar only if the papaya is not very sweet.
Blend on high speed until completely smooth and creamy, about 30-45 seconds. The mixture should be thick but pourable.
Taste and adjust sweetness or add a splash more lime juice if desired. The texture should resemble a very thick smoothie.
Pour immediately into chilled glasses or dessert bowls.
Serve right away while still cold and frothy.

Regional variants

Some modern versions add a few drops of vanilla extract or blend in a banana for extra creaminess. In some Brazilian homes it is served with a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk on top.

Cook's notes

Use papaya that is very ripe with bright orange flesh and a sweet fragrance for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute the liqueur with 2 tablespoons of orange juice concentrate.
For an extra touch, top with a small scoop of ice cream or a sprinkle of crumbled Maria cookies.

Serve with

Serve in tall glasses with a straw or spoon. Often enjoyed on its own or with crisp butter cookies.

Make ahead and storage

Best enjoyed immediately. Leftovers can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 1 week and thawed slightly before serving.

Brazilian Papaya Cream (Creme de Papaya)