Chinese Coconut Pudding

Introduction

If you love desserts that are silky, light, and naturally fragrant, this Chinese Coconut Pudding will win your heart. Popular in Chinese dim sum restaurants and Asian bakeries, this chilled dessert combines creamy coconut milk, milk, and gelatin for a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s refreshing yet indulgent, perfect for hot weather or to finish off a savory meal with a tropical touch. According to Asian dessert trends, coconut-based puddings are among the top 10 most-loved chilled desserts across China and Southeast Asia — and for good reason!

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Ingredients List

🥥 Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
• 1 cup whole milk (or almond milk for dairy-free)
• ¼ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 tsp gelatin powder (or agar-agar for vegan option)
• 3 tbsp warm water (for blooming gelatin)
• A pinch of salt

🍯 Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ tsp vanilla extract for sweetness depth
• ¼ cup shredded coconut for texture
• Mango cubes or red beans for topping
• Drizzle of condensed milk for extra richness

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Timing

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Chilling Time: 3–4 hours
• Total Time: ~4 hours 10 minutes

This dessert is no-bake and effortlessly elegant!

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin

In a small bowl, combine gelatin and warm water. Stir and let sit for 5 minutes to bloom.

Step 2: Warm the Milk Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine coconut milk, milk, sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar is dissolved — do not boil.

Step 3: Add the Gelatin

Remove the pan from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until completely dissolved.

Step 4: Pour and Chill

Pour the mixture into molds, cups, or a shallow dish. Let cool slightly, then refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours, until set.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Unmold carefully or serve directly in cups. Garnish with mango cubes, shredded coconut, or condensed milk drizzle.

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Nutritional Information (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	170 kcal
Fat	10 g
Carbohydrates	16 g
Sugar	14 g
Protein	4 g
Calcium	10% DV

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Healthier Alternatives

• Low-Sugar: Replace sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
• Vegan: Use agar-agar instead of gelatin and almond milk instead of dairy milk.
• Extra Creamy: Add ¼ cup coconut cream.
• High-Protein: Stir in a scoop of vanilla protein powder before chilling.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled after Chinese meals or dim sum.
• Pair with fresh tropical fruits like mango, lychee, or pineapple.
• Add a layer of mango puree or passion fruit coulis for color and contrast.
• Cut into cubes and serve as a refreshing cold snack in summer.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Boiling the milk: It can cause separation — heat gently.
2. Skipping gelatin blooming: It won’t dissolve properly and can clump.
3. Using low-fat coconut milk: It affects flavor and texture.
4. Not chilling long enough: The pudding won’t firm up.

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Storing Tips

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Not recommended — freezing alters the smooth texture.
• Pro Tip: Cover each pudding cup with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

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Conclusion

This Chinese Coconut Pudding is the perfect combination of silky texture, tropical flavor, and cooling comfort. With minimal ingredients and effort, you’ll have an elegant dessert that’s light, creamy, and beautifully simple. 🥥✨ Whether for a dinner party or a quiet night in, this pudding is sure to impress.

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FAQs

1. Can I use canned coconut cream instead of milk?
Yes, but dilute it with water (1:1) for a lighter consistency.

2. Why isn’t my pudding setting?
Your gelatin might not have bloomed properly — ensure it fully dissolves before chilling.

3. Can I make it ahead?
Yes! It’s ideal for make-ahead desserts and tastes even better the next day.

4. Can I add fruit inside?
Absolutely — layer diced mango, lychee, or kiwi before pouring in the mixture.