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This easy mango pudding is a perfect light dessert that feels special but comes together with little fuss. Its creamy texture and pure mango flavor make it a refreshing finish for any meal or a sweet treat to cool down on warm days.
I discovered this recipe when craving dessert but short on time. It quickly became a favorite because it tastes like something you&d get at a fancy restaurant but is so simple to make at home.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fully ripened mangoes peeled pitted and diced: ripe mangoes bring natural sweetness and vibrant flavor so choose ones that give slightly to gentle pressure
- 2 tbsp cold water: helps soften gelatin ensuring it dissolves well without clumps
- 1.5 tbsp gelatin or agar agar powder for a vegan option: gelatin sets the pudding making it firm yet silky so do not skip this or substitute carefully
- 1.5 tbsp white granulated sugar: balances the mango&s tartness but adjust based on your mango&s sweetness
- 0.54 cups full-fat coconut milk or evaporated milk heavy cream or evaporated coconut milk: coconut milk adds richness and a subtle tropical note but other options work for creaminess
- 4 tbsp evaporated milk or coconut milk for garnishing: adds moisture and richness when served
Instructions
- Build The Mango Puree:
- Transfer mango chunks to a blender or food processor. Blend until completely smooth. For extra silky pudding strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve to remove any fibers or lumps. This step really makes the difference in smoothness.
- Bloom The Gelatin:
- In a small bowl mix cold water and gelatin powder allowing it to soften and swell for a few minutes. This blooming is key to prevent grainy gelatin in your pudding.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a pot whisk together the bloomed gelatin sugar coconut milk and mango puree until fully mixed. This mixture will be a bit loose but the gelatin is working behind the scenes.
- Heat To Dissolve Gelatin:
- Place the pot over low heat. Warm gently stirring constantly until gelatin fully dissolves usually a few minutes. Do not let the mixture boil or it will affect the texture of the pudding negatively.
- Chill Until Set:
- Pour the mixture into serving bowls or molds. Refrigerate covered for at least six hours or overnight until firm and set.
- Serve With Evaporated Milk:
- Before serving drizzle evaporated milk or coconut milk over the pudding for extra creaminess and a beautiful presentation.
I love using fully ripe mangoes because their vibrant color and sweetness bring the pudding to life. One family memory is making this dessert the day my niece discovered her love for mangoes. Watching her face light up was my favorite reward in cooking.
Storage Tips
Store leftover pudding covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to three days. The texture holds up beautifully as long as it stays chilled. Avoid freezing this pudding because the gelatin texture will break down and become grainy once thawed.
Ingredient Swaps
For a dairy-free version use full-fat coconut milk only and agar agar powder instead of gelatin. Heavy cream or evaporated milk can be swapped with almond or oat milk for a lighter touch but changes the flavor slightly. Fresh mango puree can be replaced with frozen mango chunks that are thawed completely.
Serving Ideas
Serve this pudding chilled topped with a sprig of mint or slices of fresh mango for a summery feel. A dusting of toasted coconut flakes or a spoon of passionfruit pulp adds interest and tropical brightness. Ideal with a cup of strong coffee or refreshing iced tea on the side.
Cultural Context
Mango pudding is a beloved dessert in many tropical countries, especially in Southeast Asia where mangoes are abundant and revered. It has become a staple at banquets and family dinners alike, combining simple ingredients with the luscious flavor of mango to create a beloved comfort dessert.
Seasonal Twists
In mango season use the ripest mangoes for best flavor but outside of season frozen mango puree works well and keeps the pudding accessible year-round. In summer add chopped fresh berries along with mango for a fruit medley twist. For holidays serve in small glasses layered with a bit of crushed biscuit or granola for texture contrast.
Delicious creamy mango pudding perfect for beginners. Adjust sweetness easily for personal taste. Set and chill overnight for best results.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → How can I make this dessert vegan-friendly?
Replace gelatin with agar-agar powder and use coconut milk in place of dairy to keep it plant-based while maintaining a smooth texture.
- → Why is straining the mango puree important?
Straining removes fibrous bits, resulting in an extra smooth and creamy texture that enhances the final dessert’s mouthfeel.
- → Can I use other types of milk for this dessert?
Yes, options like evaporated milk, heavy cream, or coconut milk work well, each bringing subtle variations to richness and flavor.
- → What’s the best way to dissolve gelatin without boiling?
Heat the mixture gently just until gelatin dissolves to preserve the delicate texture and avoid curdling.
- → How long should the dessert chill before serving?
Chilling for at least 6 hours or overnight allows the dessert to set firmly and develop its creamy consistency.