Name: Silky Chinese Coconut Pudding Made with Just 5 Ingredients
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 255 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Sugar (Adjust to taste); 2-3 tablespoons Gelatin (Based on firmness preference); 1 cup Boiling Water (To dissolve gelatin); 1 cup Whole Milk (Preferred for creaminess); 1 cup Coconut Milk (Full-fat for richness); optional Almond Extract (Can substitute with vanilla extract)

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As I stood in my kitchen, a gentle aroma of coconut filled the air, transporting me back to childhood dim sum feasts. This Easy 5-Ingredient Chinese Coconut Pudding is a nostalgic nod to those sweet moments, bringing a taste of joy right to your home. With a silky texture and a hint of almond, it’s not just delicious but also incredibly simple to whip up—perfect for those evenings when you crave a homemade dessert without the fuss. This vegetarian treat is a crowd-pleaser that can be served chilled, making it an ideal choice for warm days or cozy gatherings. Are you ready to embrace the magic of homemade desserts and indulge in this delightful pudding?

Why is This Pudding So Irresistible?

Simplicity at Its Core: With just five ingredients, you can create this heavenly dessert without a long shopping list or complicated techniques.

Creamy Delight: The blend of coconut and milk ensures a rich, velvety texture that feels luxurious on your palate.

Versatile Flavor Options: Feel free to swap in almond or vanilla extract, or top it with fresh fruit to elevate your taste experience.

Perfect for Gatherings: Serve it chilled at your next dinner party or casual gathering, and watch it disappear! Everyone will be asking for seconds.

Make Ahead Success: Prepare it in advance for stress-free entertaining—refrigerate for up to three days without losing its silky charm. Dive into a nostalgic treat inspired by your favorite dim sum moments! Check out my recipe for Banana Pudding Parfait for another delightful dessert option.

Chinese Coconut Pudding Ingredients

• Get ready to craft this delightful dessert with just five essential ingredients!

For the Pudding

Sugar – Sweetens the pudding; adjust to your taste for a sweeter or lighter dessert.
Gelatin – Gives structure and helps achieve that wonderful pudding texture; use 2-3 tablespoons based on your preference for firmness.
Boiling Water – Activates and dissolves the gelatin effectively for a smooth consistency.
Milk – Adds creaminess; whole milk is recommended for a richer mouthfeel.
Coconut Milk – Infuses true coconut flavor and richness; choose full-fat for a delightful, creamy pudding experience.
Almond Extract (optional) – Enhances the coconut taste with a lovely depth; feel free to swap with vanilla extract if desired.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy 5-Ingredient Chinese Coconut Pudding

Step 1: Dissolve the Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of boiling water with the sugar until fully dissolved, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The mixture will turn clear and syrupy, indicating that the sugar has melted completely. Make sure to use a whisk for a smooth consistency without any graininess.

Step 2: Activate the Gelatin
Sprinkle the gelatin over the sugar mixture and let it sit undisturbed for approximately 2 minutes. This resting period allows the gelatin to fully absorb the liquid and hydrate, ensuring it dissolves smoothly when combined. You’ll notice it begins to swell slightly, which is a good sign that it’s ready for the next step.

Step 3: Incorporate the Milks
Add the whole milk to the mixture, followed by the rich coconut milk, while whisking continuously for about 1-2 minutes. This step ensures that both milks emulsify well into the mixture, creating a creamy blend that captures the essence of your Easy Chinese Coconut Pudding. The mixture should look velvety and uniform without any lumps.

Step 4: Enhance the Flavor
If desired, add a few drops of almond extract, stirring well to incorporate it into the pudding mixture. This optional step introduces a delightful depth of flavor that beautifully complements the coconut. The pudding should smell wonderfully aromatic at this point, inviting you to continue with the process.

Step 5: Pour into Molds
Carefully pour the pudding mixture into a rectangular container, silicone molds, or individual ramekins, filling them about three-quarters full. Use a funnel or a liquid measuring cup for precision to avoid spills. This step is crucial for achieving the desired shape; ensure the surface is smooth and level before moving on.

Step 6: Chill to Set
Place the filled molds in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until set. The pudding should firm up completely, becoming jelly-like to the touch. After this chilling period, you will know it’s ready when the top feels firm and slightly springy when gently pressed.

Step 7: Release from Molds
To serve your Easy Chinese Coconut Pudding, carefully remove it from the molds. If using silicone molds, gently press the bottom to release the pudding. For traditional containers, briefly submerge them in hot water for about 30 seconds to loosen the edges. The pudding should glide out smoothly, maintaining its beautiful shape.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish your silky Chinese Coconut Pudding with fresh fruit or toasted coconut flakes for an enticing presentation. Serve chilled to maximize the refreshing experience of this delightful dessert. Let everyone enjoy the creamy texture and rich coconut flavor that makes this pudding an unforgettable treat!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy 5-Ingredient Chinese Coconut Pudding desserts are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the pudding up to 3 days in advance by following the recipe as directed and then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain its silky texture and rich flavor, ensure the pudding is fully chilled for at least 4 hours before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply release it from the molds or container and garnish with fresh fruit or toasted coconut. This way, you’ll have a delightful, homemade dessert ready for any occasion with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Easy 5-Ingredient Chinese Coconut Pudding

Imagine a delightful gathering enhanced by the lusciousness of this creamy dessert that truly deserves the spotlight.

Fresh Mango Slices: The sweet, juicy flavor of ripe mango balances beautifully with the coconut’s creaminess for a refreshing treat.
Toasted Coconut Flakes: Add a crunchy texture on top to amplify the coconut flavor and offer a delightful contrast to the silky pudding.
Crispy Spring Rolls: Pairing these crunchy, savory bites with coconut pudding provides a delightful balance of textures and flavors. They are delightful on the palate!
Green Tea: A warm cup of this aromatic beverage complements the pudding’s sweetness while stimulating the senses. It’s a calming duo that enhances your dessert experience.
Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds vibrant flavors and textures, enlivening each spoonful of the rich pudding with a burst of freshness.
Chocolate Drizzle: A light pour of warm chocolate creates a decadent twist to the classic pudding, appealing to chocolate lovers everywhere.
Almond Cookies: These crisp, nutty treats pair well with the creamy pudding, offering a satisfying crunch alongside its rich consistency.
Chiang Mai Iced Coffee: The creamy, nutty notes of this sweetened coffee harmonize ideally with the dessert, creating a delightful after-dinner indulgence.

Variations & Substitutions for Chinese Coconut Pudding

Feel free to get creative with your pudding and adapt it to your taste and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Replace whole milk with coconut cream or almond milk to keep it deliciously creamy while catering to vegan diets. The unique flavors will offer a delightful twist.
Low-Sugar Option: Swap regular sugar with a sugar substitute, like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, for a dessert that aligns with your health goals without sacrificing flavor.
Fruit-Infused: Mix in pureed fruit, like mango or banana, before setting. This addition will offer a refreshing burst of flavor and a pop of color in each bite!
Extra Creamy: Increase the coconut milk ratio by substituting more of it for milk. You’ll end up with an irresistibly rich pudding that coconut lovers will adore!
Zesty Twist: Add a splash of lime or lemon juice for a zesty note that brightens the creamy sweetness of the pudding. The citrus will provide a lovely contrast and keep things exciting.
Texture Variation: For a fun textural experience, fold in some chopped nuts or toasted coconut flakes after mixing the liquids. They add crunch and deepen the flavor profile.
Flavorful Layers: Create a layered pudding by combining your coconut pudding with a flavored layer, such as chocolate or matcha-infused pudding. This visual delight makes every spoonful an adventure.
Topped with Goodness: Garnish not just with fruit but also with edible flowers or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for an aesthetically pleasing and satisfying finish.

Looking to bring some more sweetness into your life? Why not check out my recipe for a delightful Banana Pudding Parfait that can be made with similar techniques! You’ll cherish each homestyle creation. Enjoy experimenting—I can’t wait to hear about your delicious twists!

Tips for the Best Chinese Coconut Pudding

Dissolving Gelatin: Always ensure that the gelatin is completely dissolved in boiling water to avoid clumping, which can lead to an uneven texture in your Chinese Coconut Pudding.
Milk Matters: For the best creaminess, opt for whole milk and full-fat coconut milk. This combination elevates the pudding’s flavor and ensures a rich mouthfeel.
Use Silicone Molds: These are ideal for easy release after chilling. If you use traditional molds, run hot water over the sides briefly before attempting to pop out the pudding.
Garnish for Appeal: Elevate your dessert by garnishing with fresh fruit, toasted coconut, or a drizzle of honey. This not only enhances presentation but also adds extra flavors to your Chinese Coconut Pudding.
Texture Test: For optimal consistency, set the pudding in the fridge for at least 4 hours; this ensures it achieves that delightful jelly-like texture that everyone loves.

How to Store and Freeze Chinese Coconut Pudding

Fridge: Store your Chinese Coconut Pudding in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it is fully chilled before sealing to maintain its silky texture.

Freezer: If you want to extend its life, freeze the pudding for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen pudding, transfer it to the fridge for 6-8 hours before serving to gently thaw it without compromising the texture.

Reheating: This dessert is best served chilled, so avoid reheating. Instead, allow it to come to room temperature before enjoying.

Chinese Coconut Pudding Recipe FAQs

What type of sugar should I use for the pudding?
You can use granulated white sugar as it dissolves easily and balances the coconut flavor. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference for sweetness—more for a sweeter treat or less if you’re aiming for a lighter dessert.

How should I store leftover Chinese Coconut Pudding?
Store your pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it is completely chilled before sealing. This will help maintain its silky texture and prevent it from absorbing other odors from the fridge.

Can I freeze Chinese Coconut Pudding?
Absolutely! If you want to extend its shelf life, freeze the pudding for up to 2 months. First, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place it in a freezer-safe container to keep it protected.

What’s the best way to thaw frozen pudding?
To thaw your frozen Chinese Coconut Pudding, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it sit for 6-8 hours. This gentle thawing method ensures that the texture remains smooth and creamy, just like the day it was made.

Can I make this pudding vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the whole milk with almond milk or any other plant-based milk, and use agar-agar instead of gelatin for vegan-friendly options. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for using agar-agar, as it requires a slightly different preparation method.

Are there any common issues when making pudding?
One common issue is having a grainy texture. This often happens if the gelatin doesn’t dissolve properly. To avoid this, always ensure you dissolve the gelatin in boiling water thoroughly before mixing it with the other ingredients. Whisking continuously helps achieve a smooth consistency without lumps.