Chinese Coconut Pudding is a simple and refreshing dessert made with coconut milk and gelatin, resulting in a firm yet smooth and creamy pudding. This easy-to-make treat only requires five ingredients and can be made ahead of time for any occasion. With a deliciously light coconut flavor, it’s a perfect dessert to enjoy after a hearty meal or during special gatherings.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 3 tbsp gelatin (use 2 tbsp for a softer pudding)

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1 cup boiling water

• 1 cup milk

• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk (full-fat for richer flavor)

• 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)

Directions

1. Dissolve Gelatin: In a large bowl, dissolve the gelatin and sugar in the boiling water, stirring for about 1 minute. Let it sit for 2 minutes to ensure everything is dissolved.

2. Add the Liquids: Stir in the milk, followed by the coconut milk, and whisk well to evenly distribute the coconut fat.

3. Add Almond Extract: If using, add the almond extract and mix it into the pudding mixture.

4. Set the Pudding: Pour the mixture into a rectangular container, silicone molds, or ramekins. If you want clean, perfect shapes, silicone molds are recommended.

5. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the pudding is set and firm.

6. Serve: To release the pudding from the mold, submerge it in hot water for about 30 seconds, then flip to release. Cut into portions and enjoy!

Nutrients (per serving)

• Calories: 100

• Protein: 2g

• Fat: 5g

  • Saturated Fat: 5g

• Carbohydrates: 12g

  • Sugar: 12g

• Sodium: 25mg

• Calcium: 40mg

• Iron: 0.3mg

• Vitamin A: 50 IU

• Vitamin C: 2mg

The Charm of Coconut Flavored Desserts

Coconut is a popular ingredient in many Asian and tropical desserts, providing a rich, creamy texture and a subtle, nutty sweetness that pairs well with a variety of flavors. Coconut milk, a key ingredient in this pudding, lends a smooth, velvety consistency while infusing the dessert with its signature mild coconut flavor. In Chinese cuisine, coconut-based sweets are often served during festive occasions like Chinese New Year, weddings, or other celebrations, adding a sense of tradition and luxury to the meal.

The mild coconut taste of this pudding is balanced with a touch of sweetness from the sugar, creating a flavor profile that is both satisfying and light. Unlike heavier desserts, Chinese Coconut Pudding offers a refreshing conclusion to a rich meal, making it ideal for those who want something sweet but not too overwhelming.

Texture: Firm Yet Creamy

The unique texture of Chinese Coconut Pudding is one of its defining features. The use of gelatin as the setting agent gives the pudding a firm yet smooth consistency that holds its shape when served. Unlike traditional puddings or custards, which are creamy and soft but may lack structure, the gelatin in this pudding allows it to maintain its form while still offering a smooth and silky mouthfeel. This perfect balance of firmness and creaminess makes Chinese Coconut Pudding a satisfying dessert that can be sliced or scooped, depending on your serving preference.

The gelatin ensures that the pudding has a texture that’s not too wobbly or too stiff, making it enjoyable for anyone who loves the satisfying feel of a firm yet creamy dessert. This is particularly important in Chinese Coconut Pudding, where the visual appeal of clean, firm edges enhances the eating experience.

Five Ingredients for a Simple Dessert

One of the standout features of Chinese Coconut Pudding is how easy it is to prepare with only five ingredients. This simplicity makes it accessible for both beginner and experienced cooks, and it’s ideal for anyone who wants a quick, no-fuss dessert. The basic ingredients include gelatin, sugar, boiling water, milk, and coconut milk.

The addition of gelatin allows the pudding to set without the need for eggs or complicated techniques, simplifying the process even further. The sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness, while the coconut milk brings the tropical flavor that gives this dessert its distinct taste. Milk, whether regular dairy or a non-dairy alternative, helps create a smooth texture, while almond extract, though optional, adds a subtle, aromatic depth to the flavor. This minimalistic approach ensures that the flavors shine without being masked by an overabundance of ingredients.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Special Occasions

One of the advantages of Chinese Coconut Pudding is its ability to be made ahead of time, making it an excellent option for meal prep or special occasions. The pudding needs to chill for at least four hours to set properly, which means you can easily prepare it in advance and let it do the work while you focus on other tasks. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a special dessert for a family meal, the pudding can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

This pudding’s clean, elegant appearance also makes it ideal for special occasions. When served in individual ramekins or cute silicone molds, it creates a sophisticated presentation that’s sure to impress guests. The creamy, smooth texture combined with the light coconut flavor makes it a delightful dessert to serve at gatherings, adding a touch of luxury without the complexity of more elaborate dishes.

The Versatility of Chinese Coconut Pudding

While the basic version of Chinese Coconut Pudding is incredibly delicious on its own, it can easily be customized to suit different tastes and preferences. For example, you can infuse the pudding with other flavors by adding a splash of vanilla extract, a hint of citrus zest, or even a few drops of rose water. The almond extract in the recipe adds a lovely subtle flavor, but if you’re looking for a more tropical twist, you could use a splash of pandan extract, a popular ingredient in Southeast Asian desserts.

Another way to vary the pudding is by serving it with toppings that complement its creamy texture. Fresh fruit such as mango, lychee, or berries can add a burst of color and freshness, while toasted coconut flakes or crushed nuts can introduce a crunchy contrast to the smooth pudding. For a richer experience, you could drizzle the pudding with a touch of honey, sweetened condensed milk, or even a coconut cream topping to enhance the coconut flavor even further.

Health Benefits of Coconut Milk and Gelatin

While Chinese Coconut Pudding is certainly a treat for the taste buds, it also has some nutritional benefits thanks to its main ingredients. Coconut milk is a source of healthy fats, particularly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are believed to provide quick energy and support metabolism. Additionally, coconut milk contains essential nutrients like vitamin C, calcium, and magnesium, which contribute to overall health.

Gelatin, the key setting agent in this pudding, is also known for its health benefits. Derived from animal collagen, gelatin is often used to support joint health, improve skin elasticity, and promote digestive health. For those who are mindful of their collagen intake, gelatin provides a simple way to boost this nutrient without the need for supplements. It also supports a firm, satisfying texture in the pudding that makes it enjoyable to eat.

A Light and Refreshing End to a Meal

What sets Chinese Coconut Pudding apart from many other desserts is its lightness. Unlike heavier, cream-based puddings or cakes, this dessert is refreshing and not overly sweet. The coconut flavor is subtle but present, and the smooth, firm texture makes each bite feel indulgent without being too rich. This makes it the perfect dessert to enjoy after a large meal, as it won’t overwhelm your taste buds but still satisfies your sweet tooth.

This dessert is particularly popular after hearty dishes such as dim sum, stir-fries, or spicy Asian meals, as the cool and refreshing nature of the pudding helps to cleanse the palate and provide a gentle finish to the meal. Its simplicity and lightness also make it a great choice for those who want to indulge without feeling weighed down by a heavy dessert.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chinese Coconut Pudding is a delightful, simple dessert that brings the tropical flavors of coconut into a light, creamy treat. With its firm yet smooth texture and subtly sweet coconut flavor, this pudding is perfect for any occasion, from casual meals to special celebrations. The ease of preparation, minimal ingredients, and ability to be made ahead of time make it an excellent choice for busy cooks or those looking to serve a show-stopping dessert without much effort. Whether you enjoy it as a refreshing finish to a savory meal or as a stand-alone treat, Chinese Coconut Pudding offers a delicious and satisfying way to end your dining experience.