If there is one dessert that perfectly captures the tropical sweetness and creaminess we all crave, it’s this Easy Simple Mango Pudding Recipe. Bursting with the vibrant flavor of ripe mangoes and the luxurious silkiness of coconut milk, this pudding feels like a cool tropical vacation in your mouth. The best part? It’s incredibly straightforward to make, with just a handful of ingredients that blend together to create a light yet indulgent treat anyone can whip up in no time. Whether you are hosting friends or seeking a refreshing solo indulgence, this pudding will quickly become a beloved go-to dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Easy Simple Mango Pudding Recipe calls for a minimal list of ingredients, each carefully selected for flavor, texture, and that beautiful golden color you expect from a mango dessert. These essentials come together to create a pudding that is smooth, creamy, and perfectly set.
- Ripe mangoes (12 oz): Using fully ripened and tender mangoes ensures the pudding has that natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Cold water (2 tbsp): Helps to bloom the gelatin or agar agar, which is key to achieving the right pudding texture.
- Gelatin or agar agar powder (1.5 tbsp gelatin or 1.5 tsp agar agar for vegan): The secret to firm yet tender pudding that holds its shape beautifully.
- White granulated sugar (1.5 tbsp): Enhances the natural sweetness without overpowering the mango’s flavor.
- Coconut milk (0.54 cups full fat): Adds rich creaminess and a subtle coconut aroma that pairs wonderfully with mango; alternatives like evaporated milk or heavy cream can also work.
- Evaporated milk or coconut milk (4 tbsp for vegan): Used for serving to add an extra touch of creaminess when you enjoy the pudding.
How to Make Easy Simple Mango Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Ripe Mango Puree
Start by peeling, pitting, and dicing your ripe mangoes into chunks. Transfer these juicy pieces into a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. For an ultra-silky texture, strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve to remove any fibrous bits. This luscious mango base is what brings the pudding’s bold fruit flavor to life.
Step 2: Bloom the Gelatin or Agar Agar
In a small bowl, mix the cold water with gelatin powder (or agar agar if you prefer a vegan version). This step allows the gelatin to soften and dissolve more quickly when heated. Let it sit for a few minutes; you’ll notice it becoming jelly-like—that’s exactly what you want before combining it with the other ingredients.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Next, in a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, coconut milk, and the vibrant mango puree until completely smooth. Add in the bloomed gelatin mixture, stirring it in thoroughly. This mixture will be the base for your pudding’s creamy texture and delicate sweetness.
Step 4: Heat to Dissolve
Pour the combined mixture into a small pot and gently heat over low to medium heat. Stir constantly to help dissolve the gelatin fully but be very careful not to boil the mixture. Boiling can weaken the gelatin’s setting ability and affect texture. Once smooth and well-mixed, remove from heat.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Pour the pudding liquid into serving bowls or molds. Place them in the refrigerator and chill for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight. Patience pays off here, as this resting ensures the pudding sets perfectly, offering a silky, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once set, your Easy Simple Mango Pudding Recipe is ready to wow! Serve chilled with a little evaporated milk or coconut milk drizzled on top for an extra layer of creaminess that perfectly rounds out this tropical treat.
How to Serve Easy Simple Mango Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
A few thoughtful garnishes take this dessert to the next level. Fresh mint leaves, thin slices of ripe mango, or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes add texture and a fresh contrast to the creamy pudding. A light dusting of chili powder or a pinch of lime zest can introduce exciting flavor twists that awaken the palate.
Side Dishes
This pudding pairs beautifully with light, tropical-inspired sides. Think fresh fruit salads with pineapple and kiwi, or a crisp green salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette. For a more indulgent pairing, coconut macaroons or almond biscotti offer a delightful crunch alongside the pudding’s softness.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, serve your mango pudding in clear glass cups layered with alternating mango pieces or a swirl of berry coulis. Mini mason jars or elegant martini glasses also make for a fun, visually appealing way to enjoy this dessert at parties or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover mango pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days without losing its delicate texture or fresh mango flavor. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it is not generally recommended for this pudding. The gelatin setting may weaken upon thawing, resulting in a change in texture. If you must freeze, do so in airtight containers and thaw gently in the refrigerator to preserve best quality.
Reheating
This pudding is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not advised. Instead, allow it to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes if it’s too chilled straight from the fridge, for optimal creaminess and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use canned mangoes instead of fresh ones?
Fresh ripe mangoes provide the best flavor and texture, but if you only have canned mangoes on hand, choose those packed in syrup (not juice) and adjust the sugar accordingly since canned mangoes might be sweeter. Strain and puree them as you would fresh mangoes.
Is there a vegan alternative for gelatin?
Absolutely! Agar agar powder is a fantastic vegan substitute that sets the pudding just as nicely. Use about 1.5 teaspoons of agar agar powder following the same blooming and heating steps as you would with gelatin.
Can I make this pudding without any dairy?
Yes, simply use coconut milk for both the pudding mixture and for serving to keep everything dairy-free and maintain rich creaminess that complements the mango perfectly.
How long does the pudding take to set?
For best results, refrigerate the pudding for at least 6 hours, although overnight chilling yields a firmer, silkier texture that holds up well when served.
Can I add other flavors to the pudding?
Definitely! A splash of lime juice or a teaspoon of vanilla extract can add lovely complexity. Just be mindful not to overpower the natural mango flavor, which is the star of the show.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Simple Mango Pudding Recipe is a genuine delight that brightens up any meal with its tropical sweetness and creamy texture. It’s simple enough for a novice cook yet impressive enough for company. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try—trust me, once you taste this vibrant, luscious pudding, it will become a favorite that you keep coming back to again and again.
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Easy Simple Mango Pudding Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Simple Mango Pudding Recipe is a silky smooth, refreshing dessert made with ripe mangoes, gelatin or agar agar, and creamy coconut milk. It requires minimal ingredients and effort, setting in the refrigerator to create a luscious pudding perfect for warm days or a light, fruity treat.
Ingredients
Mango Puree
- 12 oz fully ripened and tender mangoes, peeled, pitted, and diced
Gelatin Mixture
- 2 tbsp cold water
- 1.5 tbsp gelatin or 1.5 tsp agar agar powder (for vegan version)
- 1.5 tbsp white granulated sugar
- 0.54 cups full fat coconut milk (or substitute with evaporated milk, heavy cream, or evaporated coconut milk)
- 4 tbsp evaporated milk or coconut milk (for vegan version, optional for serving)
Instructions
- Ripe Mango Puree: Transfer the peeled and diced mango chunks into a blender or food processor and blend until you get a smooth and creamy mango puree. For an extra smooth texture, strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve.
- Gelatin Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the cold water with gelatin or agar agar powder and let it thicken slightly. Then add the white granulated sugar, coconut milk, and the prepared mango puree. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Combine Ingredients & Heat: Pour the mixture into a pot and heat it gently over low to medium heat. Stir continuously until the gelatin dissolves completely, being careful not to let the mixture come to a boil, as this can affect the texture.
- Pour Into Molds: Once gelatin has dissolved, pour the mixture into serving bowls or molds of your choice, smoothing the surface if needed.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pudding for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow it to set and firm up properly.
- Serve: When ready to serve, you can enjoy the mango pudding as is or drizzle with evaporated milk or coconut milk for extra creaminess and flavor.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute gelatin with agar agar powder and use coconut milk or other plant-based milks.
- Do not boil the mixture when dissolving the gelatin to maintain the smooth texture.
- Straining the mango puree ensures a silky pudding without fibrous bits.
- Adjust sugar amount to taste depending on the sweetness of your mangoes.
- Use fully ripe mangoes for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
