If you are craving a dessert that effortlessly captures the vibrant flavors of the tropics, you’ve got to try this Tropical Mango Pudding Recipe. It’s a silky-smooth mango treat that’s both refreshing and satisfyingly creamy, perfect for warmer days or any time you want a tropical escape from your kitchen. This pudding combines the natural sweetness of ripe mangoes with the rich creaminess of coconut and evaporated milk, all set to a delicate, luscious texture. Trust me, once you make this, it will become your go-to dessert for impressing guests or spoiling yourself with something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Tropical Mango Pudding Recipe is how straightforward and minimal the ingredient list is, yet every component plays a crucial role. Each brings its own flavor, texture, or color that makes this pudding hold its magic from first bite to last. Gather fresh mangoes to keep the pudding naturally sweet and vibrant, and then the gelatin or agar agar ensures it sets just right without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- 12 oz ripe mangoes: Choose juicy, fragrant mangoes for the best sweetness and smooth pureed texture.
- 2 tbsp cold water: Used to bloom the gelatin or agar agar, starting the setting process gently.
- 1.5 tbsp gelatin or 1.5 tsp agar agar powder: Acts as the natural thickener to give the pudding that perfect, firm yet tender wobble.
- 1.5 tbsp white granulated sugar: Enhances the natural mango sweetness without overpowering it.
- 0.54 cups full-fat coconut milk: Adds a rich, creamy mouthfeel and exotic flavor that pairs beautifully with mango.
- 4 tbsp evaporated milk or coconut milk: A final creamy drizzle to make the pudding even more luscious when served.
How to Make Tropical Mango Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Puree the Mangoes
First things first, blitz those ripe mango chunks in a blender or food processor until completely smooth. If you prefer your pudding ultra-silky, you can strain this puree to get rid of any fibrous bits, but this step is optional depending on your texture preference.
Step 2: Prepare the Gelatin
In a small bowl, mix the cold water with your gelatin or agar agar powder. This step is crucial, as it allows the gelatin to bloom, helping it dissolve evenly later without any unpleasant lumps.
Step 3: Combine and Heat Ingredients
Next, in a saucepan over low heat, combine the sugar, coconut milk, and mango puree. Give the mixture a good whisk until everything is melded together smoothly. Slowly add your gelatin mixture while stirring consistently, making sure it dissolves completely.
Step 4: Gently Heat Without Boiling
Keep stirring the mixture on low heat just until the gelatin is fully dissolved. Be careful not to let the mixture boil, as that can change the pudding’s texture, making it less creamy and more rubbery.
Step 5: Chill to Set
Pour the silky mango mixture into serving bowls or pretty molds and pop them into the fridge. It’s best to let them chill for at least 6 hours, or ideally overnight, to let that perfect firmness develop.
How to Serve Tropical Mango Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Tropical Mango Pudding Recipe, consider topping each pudding bowl with a splash of evaporated milk or an extra drizzle of coconut milk for a rich finish. Fresh mint leaves, small mango cubes, or toasted coconut flakes add a lovely contrast both visually and in texture.
Side Dishes
This pudding is a star on its own, but if you want to serve it alongside a light snack, think about a crisp green salad with citrus dressing or delicate coconut cookies. These pairings provide a fresh counterpoint that complements the pudding’s creamy sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try layering the pudding with crushed graham crackers or a berry compote in a clear glass jar. You can also use fancy molds to give your pudding impressive shapes, making it a charming centerpiece for dinner parties or tropical-themed brunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any pudding left over, keep it tightly covered in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, giving you that tropical delight whenever cravings strike.
Freezing
Freezing mango pudding isn’t the best idea since the texture can suffer when thawed. The gelatin can break down, leaving you with a watery or grainy texture, so enjoy this dessert fresh or refrigerated only.
Reheating
This pudding is best enjoyed cold and should not be reheated. Warming it could melt the gelatin and ruin the silky texture that makes this Tropical Mango Pudding Recipe so special.
FAQs
Can I use agar agar instead of gelatin in this Tropical Mango Pudding Recipe?
Yes, agar agar works as a great vegetarian alternative to gelatin. Just use about one-third the amount since agar agar is more potent, and gently heat it until fully dissolved just like with gelatin.
What type of mangoes are best for this pudding?
Choose ripe, sweet mango varieties like Ataulfo, Haden, or Alphonso if you can find them. They have a vibrant flavor and smooth flesh that blends beautifully into the pudding.
Is this pudding dairy-free?
It can be! Simply substitute evaporated milk with extra coconut milk to keep it creamy and dairy-free, making it perfect for those with lactose intolerance or vegan preferences (if using agar agar).
Can I make this pudding without a blender?
While a blender or food processor is ideal for smoothness, you can mash very ripe mangoes with a fork and carefully strain to remove fibers. It just might be a bit chunkier but still delicious.
How long does it take to set this pudding?
The pudding needs at least 6 hours in the refrigerator to firmly set, but leaving it overnight will give you the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
I absolutely encourage you to try this Tropical Mango Pudding Recipe and bring a splash of sunshine to your dessert routine. It’s a beautiful, simple way to enjoy mangoes that feels both elegant and comforting. Once you taste that creamy, fruity goodness, I promise you’ll want to make it again and again!
Print
Tropical Mango Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Refrigerate
- Cuisine: Tropical
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Mango Pudding recipe is a delightful tropical dessert that is smooth, creamy, and easy to prepare. Made with ripe mangoes, coconut milk, and gelatin, it offers a refreshing and light finish to any meal, perfect for warm weather or anytime you crave a fruity treat.
Ingredients
Fruit Puree
- 12 oz ripe mangoes, peeled, pitted, and diced
Gelatin Mixture
- 2 tbsp cold water
- 1.5 tbsp gelatin or 1.5 tsp agar agar powder
Milk Mixture
- 1.5 tbsp white granulated sugar
- 0.54 cups coconut milk (full fat)
- 4 tbsp evaporated milk or coconut milk
Instructions
- Prepare Mango Puree: Transfer the diced mango chunks to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. To achieve an ultra-smooth texture, strain the puree through a fine mesh to remove any fibrous bits.
- Bloom the Gelatin: In a small bowl, combine the cold water with the gelatin or agar agar powder to let it bloom and start thickening.
- Mix Ingredients in Saucepan: In a saucepan over low heat, add the sugar, coconut milk, and mango puree. Whisk this mixture continuously until fully smooth and combined.
- Dissolve Gelatin: Slowly stir the bloomed gelatin into the saucepan mixture. Continue to stir over low heat until the gelatin is fully dissolved, making sure not to let the mixture boil, to maintain the desired pudding texture.
- Chill to Set: Pour the pudding mixture evenly into individual serving bowls or molds. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the pudding to set firmly.
- Serve: Once set, serve the mango pudding topped with a drizzle of evaporated milk or additional coconut milk for extra creaminess and flavor.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute gelatin with agar agar powder as indicated.
- Use fully ripe mangoes for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
- Do not boil the pudding mixture after adding gelatin to avoid affecting the texture.
- Straining the mango puree is optional but recommended for a smoother pudding.
- Refrigerate the pudding for at least 6 hours for a firm set; overnight refrigeration yields the best results.
