No need to wait for dim sum to enjoy this dessert anymore. You can make Chinese Coconut Pudding at home with just five simple ingredients. This creamy and delightful pudding is perfect for various occasions, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in. The unique blend of coconut and almond flavors creates a deliciously satisfying treat that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy Preparation: With only five ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and quick to make.
- Delicious Flavor Profile: The combination of coconut milk and optional almond extract creates a rich, tropical taste that is hard to resist.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it in molds or ramekins for an elegant presentation, perfect for any occasion.
- Customizable Ingredients: Adjust the firmness by varying the amount of vegan gelatin used; you can also skip the almond extract if desired.
- Vegan-Friendly Dessert: This pudding is made without any animal-derived ingredients, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Silicone molds or ramekins
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for whisking the ingredients together thoroughly.
- Whisk: A whisk helps to dissolve the sugar and gelatin quickly, ensuring a smooth pudding texture.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the right consistency in your pudding.
- Silicone molds or ramekins: These are great for shaping your pudding. Silicone molds allow easy release without damaging the dessert.

Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3 tablespoons Vegan Vegan vegan gelatin (this gives a firm pudding; if you want it softer, use 2 tablespoons)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup milk
- 1 can coconut milk (14oz/400mL can; using full-fat coconut milk provides extra creaminess)
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
How to Make Chinese Coconut Pudding
Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin Mixture
- In a large bowl, whisk the sugar into 1 cup of boiling water until dissolved.
- Stir in the Vegan Vegan vegan gelatin, mixing well.
- Allow the mixture to sit for another two minutes to ensure everything dissolves properly.
Step 2: Combine Dairy Ingredients
- Pour in the milk, followed by the coconut milk.
- Whisk thoroughly to ensure that the coconut’s fat is evenly distributed throughout.
Step 3: Add Flavoring (Optional)
- If desired, add 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract.
- Mix again to incorporate the flavor fully.
Step 4: Mold the Pudding
- Pour the mixture into silicone molds or ramekins.
- For perfect shapes, silicone molds are recommended; other containers may require cutting with a knife afterward.
Step 5: Release from Molds
- To release your pudding from silicone molds easily, submerge them in hot water for about 30 seconds before inverting onto a plate.
Enjoy your homemade Chinese Coconut Pudding, a delightful dessert that brings a taste of Asia right into your kitchen!
How to Serve Chinese Coconut Pudding
Chinese Coconut Pudding is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to impress guests or simply enjoy a sweet treat, serving suggestions can elevate this delightful dessert.
Chilled with Fresh Fruits
- Add slices of tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, or kiwi on top for a fresh burst of flavor.
Topped with Whipped Coconut Cream
- Serve with a dollop of whipped coconut cream for an extra creamy texture and enhanced coconut taste.
Sprinkled with Toasted Coconut Flakes
- Garnish the pudding with toasted coconut flakes for added crunch and a deeper coconut flavor.
Drizzled with Fruit Syrup
- A drizzle of homemade fruit syrup (like raspberry or passionfruit) can add a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the pudding.
Served in Individual Cups
- Present the pudding in small cups or ramekins for a charming individual dessert option that’s perfect for gatherings.
How to Perfect Chinese Coconut Pudding
To achieve the perfect texture and flavor for your Chinese Coconut Pudding, consider these helpful tips.
-
Use full-fat coconut milk: This will ensure a rich and creamy consistency that enhances the pudding’s flavor.
-
Opt for high-quality sugar: Using organic or fine granulated sugar can improve sweetness and overall taste.
-
Whisk thoroughly: Make sure to whisk the mixture well after adding each ingredient. This helps achieve a smooth texture without lumps.
-
Experiment with flavors: While almond extract is optional, adding other extracts like vanilla or even citrus zest can give your pudding an interesting twist.
Best Side Dishes for Chinese Coconut Pudding
Pairing side dishes with your Chinese Coconut Pudding can create a balanced meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:
-
Mango Sticky Rice: A traditional Thai dessert that combines sweet sticky rice with ripe mango, creating a perfect complement to the pudding’s flavors.
-
Green Tea Ice Cream: The slightly bitter taste of green tea ice cream balances the sweetness of the pudding while adding an Asian flair.
-
Sesame Balls: These deep-fried treats filled with sweet red bean paste provide a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the soft pudding.
-
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made from seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness alongside the rich coconut flavor.
-
Steamed Buns: Light and fluffy steamed buns serve as an excellent accompaniment, especially when filled with sweetened bean paste.
-
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy cookies enhance the coconut theme while adding some texture contrast to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Chinese Coconut Pudding even better. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Incorrect Gelatin Measurement: Using too much or too little vegan gelatin can affect the texture. Follow the recipe closely; for a firmer pudding, use 3 tablespoons, but 2 tablespoons will yield a softer consistency.
- Not Whisking Properly: Failing to whisk the mixture well can lead to uneven texture. Ensure you mix thoroughly to distribute the coconut fat and ingredients evenly.
- Skipping the Soak Time: Not allowing the gelatin mixture to sit for two minutes can result in lumps. Patience here ensures everything dissolves correctly.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold milk or coconut milk can cause the gelatin to set improperly. Always use room temperature or slightly warmed ingredients.
- Improper Container Choice: Choosing a non-flexible container makes it hard to release the pudding later. Opt for silicone molds for easy removal and perfect shapes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Make sure it has cooled completely before sealing.
Freezing Chinese Coconut Pudding
- Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
Reheating Chinese Coconut Pudding
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place pudding in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals of 20-30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
- Stovetop: Place pudding in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Chinese Coconut Pudding.
Can I use other types of milk?
Yes, you can substitute with almond milk or oat milk for a different flavor profile while keeping it dairy-free.
How long does Chinese Coconut Pudding last in the fridge?
It lasts up to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Is there a way to make this pudding less sweet?
Absolutely! You can reduce the sugar amount according to your taste preference without compromising texture.
Can I add fruits to my Chinese Coconut Pudding?
Certainly! Fresh fruits like mango or berries can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.
What if I can’t find vegan gelatin?
You can use agar-agar as an alternative, but adjust the quantity according to package instructions since it may require different measurements.
Final Thoughts
This Chinese Coconut Pudding is a delightful dessert that’s simple yet satisfying. Its creamy texture combined with coconut flavor makes it irresistible. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite fruits or extracts. Give this easy recipe a try and impress your family and friends!
Chinese Coconut Pudding
Discover the joy of making a creamy and delightful Chinese Coconut Pudding right in your own kitchen! This easy-to-follow recipe requires just five simple ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy nights in. The luscious combination of coconut milk and optional almond extract offers a tropical flavor that’s sure to impress. Whether you serve it chilled with fresh fruits or topped with whipped coconut cream, this vegan-friendly dessert is a satisfying treat that everyone can enjoy. Experience the taste of Asia with every delicious bite!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Dessert
- Method: None
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3 tablespoons vegan gelatin (like agar-agar)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup milk (dairy-free options like almond or oat milk are great)
- 1 can (14oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and boiling water until dissolved. Stir in the vegan gelatin and let it sit for two minutes.
- Add the milk and coconut milk to the mixture, whisking well to combine.
- If using, add the almond extract and mix thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into silicone molds or ramekins.
- To release your pudding easily, submerge molds in hot water for about 30 seconds before inverting onto a plate.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pudding (100g)
- Calories: 192
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg



Leave a Comment