When the sun shines brightly and the humidity begins to rise, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a light and refreshing dessert to lift your spirits. That’s how I discovered the sheer delight of Chinese Mango Pudding—a creamy, subtly sweet treat that transports you straight to a tropical paradise with every spoonful. This divine pudding, made with luscious ripe mango and smooth coconut milk, has become my go-to dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family meal or an elegant dinner party.
After a day filled with the chaos of everyday life, I’m always searching for something simple yet impressive to serve. This delightful pudding fits seamlessly into that category. Not only is it incredibly easy to whip up, but it’s also gluten-free and vegetarian, making it a hit for everyone at the table. The smooth, airy texture and vibrant mango flavor will leave you dreaming of beaches and sunshine! So let’s dive into making this exquisite Chinese Mango Pudding that’s perfect for any time of year, and get ready for the delightful indulgence that awaits.
Why is Chinese Mango Pudding a Must-Try?
Light and Refreshing: This dessert delivers a burst of tropical flavor while remaining light on the palate, making it ideal for warm days or any time you crave something sweet yet not overpowering.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe comes together effortlessly, perfect for those busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without the fuss.
Versatile: Not only can you enjoy it as is, but you can also experiment with different toppings like toasted coconut or fresh fruit for added flair.
Crowd-Pleasing: With its beautiful presentation and delightful flavor, this dessert is sure to be the star of any gathering, impressing both family and friends alike.
Healthy Indulgence: Made with wholesome ingredients and low in calories, it’s a guilt-free treat that satisfyingly hits the spot.
Check out more desserts if you’re looking for yummy and sweet options!
Chinese Mango Pudding Ingredients
• Discover the magic in a few simple ingredients!
For the Base
- Yellow and Ripe Mangoes – Provides sweetness and rich flavor; ensure they are ripe for optimal flavor.
- Coconut Milk or Half & Half – Adds creaminess and tropical flavor; can substitute half & half with almond milk for a non-dairy option.
- Condensed Milk – Adds sweetness and richness; reduce quantity for a less sweet pudding.
- Sugar – Adjusts sweetness to taste; use less or substitute with honey or agave if desired.
For the Gelatin
- Gelatin – Provides structure and firmness to the pudding; ensure to use boiling water for proper dissolution.
- Boiling Water – Activates the gelatin; boil water to ensure complete dissolution; do not use room temperature water.
These simple yet essential ingredients will come together to create the delightful Chinese Mango Pudding that transports you to a tropical paradise!
How to Make Chinese Mango Pudding
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Dissolve Gelatin: Begin by dissolving the gelatin in ¾ cup of boiling water. Stir well to ensure that it fully dissolves, and then set it aside to cool slightly.
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Puree Mangoes: In a blender, add your ripe mangoes and blend until smooth, aiming for about 1 cup of pureed mango. This fresh mango puree will be the star of your pudding!
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Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the coconut milk, condensed milk, and sugar along with the prepared gelatin mixture. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring patiently for about 3-5 minutes. Avoid boiling to keep the texture silky.
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Taste & Adjust: Take a moment to taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness as necessary. You can add more sugar or condensed milk depending on your preference for sweetness.
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Pour & Chill: Pour the creamy mixture into individual bowls or molds. Refrigerate them overnight to allow the pudding to set completely, ensuring the texture becomes firm yet silky.
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Serve: Once set, serve your delightful Chinese Mango Pudding with an optional drizzle of condensed milk or some fresh mango chunks on top for extra flavor and presentation.
Optional: Garnish with toasted coconut flakes for a lovely crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Chinese Mango Pudding cups are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the base mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in airtight containers. Simply follow the instructions until you pour the mixture into bowls or molds, then cover and chill. To maintain that silky texture, be sure to keep it refrigerated and away from strong odors. When you’re ready to serve, simply remove the pudding from the refrigerator and let it sit for a few minutes at room temperature before garnishing with fresh mango chunks or toasted coconut. This way, you’ll have a refreshing dessert that’s just as delicious and ready to impress, even on your busiest nights!
Expert Tips for Chinese Mango Pudding
- Choose Ripe Mangoes: Use fully ripe mangoes for the best flavor; under ripe ones can lead to a less sweet pudding.
- Avoid Boiling Gelatin: Always dissolve gelatin in boiling water; boiling the mixture afterward can cause it to lose its thickening properties.
- Taste as You Go: Before pouring into molds, taste the mixture and adjust sugar levels; remember, the sweetness can vary based on your mangoes.
- Chill Time Matters: Ensure you refrigerate the pudding overnight to achieve the ideal creamy texture; impatience can lead to a soupy dessert.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a splash of vanilla or a hint of citrus zest for a delightful twist to the traditional Chinese Mango Pudding!
What to Serve with Chinese Mango Pudding?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this indulgent dessert with complementary flavors and textures.
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Creamy Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness and creamy texture of coconut rice mesh beautifully with the lightness of mango pudding, creating a tropical sensation.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing crunch and vibrant colors, making a visually stunning plate that contrasts nicely with the silky pudding.
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Green Tea: The earthy notes of green tea cleanse the palate, enhancing the mango’s sweetness while offering a serene, zen-like conclusion to your meal.
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Spring Rolls: Crispy, savory spring rolls provide a delightful textural contrast to the creamy pudding, making every bite a wonderful play of flavors.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For the ultimate tropical feast, this popular dish complements the pudding perfectly, echoing mango flavor and providing varying textures with sticky rice.
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Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkling toasted coconut on the pudding adds a crunchy texture, further enhancing its lusciousness and inviting a vacation vibe with every bite.
Pair your Chinese Mango Pudding with these delightful options, and create a harmonious meal that transports you to paradise with every bite!
Chinese Mango Pudding Variations
Feel free to personalize your delightful pudding experience by exploring these tempting twists!
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Tropical Fruit Twist: Substitute blend-ins with passion fruit or ripe bananas for an exciting flavor profile.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond or cashew milk instead of coconut milk for a nutty alternative, perfect for non-dairy diets.
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Creamy Variation: Add an extra splash of coconut milk for a silkier pudding. The added creaminess elevates the overall texture beautifully.
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Sweetener Swap: Replace sugar with maple syrup or agave nectar for a natural sweetness that complements the mango perfectly.
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Textural Play: Top the pudding with toasted coconut flakes or crushed nuts for a crunchy finish that contrasts beautifully with the silky pudding.
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Citrus Zest: Enhance flavor by incorporating a hint of lime or lemon zest. This vibrant addition brightens the pudding’s sweetness and adds a refreshing kick.
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Dessert Shots: Serve the pudding in small glasses layered with whipped coconut cream for an elegant presentation that dazzles at any gathering.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a surprising heat that balances the sweetness delightfully—perfect for adventurous palates!
How to Store and Freeze Chinese Mango Pudding
Fridge: Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy the pudding later, freeze it for up to 1 month. Wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen Chinese Mango Pudding, transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. Avoid microwave thawing as it can change the texture.
Reheating: Serve chilled directly from the fridge for the best taste. There’s no need to reheat this dessert; its refreshing coolness is part of the charm!
Chinese Mango Pudding Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the perfect mangoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! You want to select ripe yellow mangoes that are slightly soft to the touch but not overly mushy. Look for vibrant, golden skin with no dark spots. If you can get your hands on Alphonse or Haden mangoes, even better—they offer a richer flavor!
What is the best way to store leftover Chinese Mango Pudding?
Store any remaining pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend using an airtight container to lock in the freshness and maintain that delightful creamy texture you love.
Can I freeze Chinese Mango Pudding?
Yes, you can freeze it! Pour the pudding into individual servings or a larger container, and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply transfer it to the fridge for a slow thaw overnight.
What should I do if my pudding is too runny?
If your pudding didn’t set as expected, you can remedy that! Gently reheat the mixture on low while stirring and add another teaspoon of gelatin dissolved in boiling water. Pour it back into molds and refrigerate again until firm. Don’t rush the setting time; letting it sit overnight works wonders!
Is Chinese Mango Pudding safe for those with allergies?
Most certainly! This dessert is gluten-free and vegetarian. However, for those with allergies, always check the labels on your ingredients. If you’re concerned about dairy, use almond or coconut milk instead of traditional dairy options, and feel free to adjust the sweeteners based on your diet needs.
How long does it take for the pudding to set?
Once poured into molds or bowls, the pudding needs to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for that extra creamy texture. Be patient—good things come to those who wait!
Creamy Chinese Mango Pudding for a Tropical Flavor Escape
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Dissolve Gelatin: Begin by dissolving the gelatin in ¾ cup of boiling water. Stir well to ensure that it fully dissolves, and then set it aside to cool slightly.
- Puree Mangoes: In a blender, add your ripe mangoes and blend until smooth, aiming for about 1 cup of pureed mango.
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the coconut milk, condensed milk, and sugar along with the prepared gelatin mixture. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring patiently for about 3-5 minutes.
- Taste & Adjust: Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness as necessary.
- Pour & Chill: Pour the creamy mixture into individual bowls or molds. Refrigerate them overnight to allow the pudding to set.
- Serve: Serve your delightful pudding with an optional drizzle of condensed milk or fresh mango chunks on top.