Chinese Coconut Pudding : Silky, Creamy & Perfectly Sweet

If you love creamy, lightly sweet desserts that melt in your mouth, Chinese Coconut Pudding is the treat you’ve been looking for. Made from a blend of coconut milk, gelatin, and a touch of sugar, this classic Chinese coconut dessert is a staple in many Asian households and restaurants. It’s elegant yet simple — smooth, refreshing, and just sweet enough to satisfy your cravings.

What makes this easy homemade coconut pudding so special is its delicate texture and versatility. It’s perfect after a rich meal, especially when served chilled with fresh fruit. Whether you’re familiar with Asian desserts or exploring new flavors, this pudding is a gentle introduction to the art of Chinese dessert cuisine — a blend of subtlety, creaminess, and balance.

If you enjoy creamy sweets, you’ll also love the silky Strawberry Cloud Cake or the decadent Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles. Both offer that same melt-in-your-mouth comfort.

Save

What Is Chinese Coconut Pudding?

Chinese Coconut Pudding is a traditional dessert made from coconut milk, sugar, and gelatin (or agar-agar). It’s a beloved dish across Asia, often served in small cubes or bowls and enjoyed after dim sum or at festive gatherings. The pudding is cool, light, and subtly sweet — a reflection of the Asian dessert philosophy that prioritizes balance over heaviness.

Unlike Western puddings that rely on eggs or dairy for thickness, this simple coconut pudding uses gelatin or agar to achieve a silky, custard-like consistency. It’s also naturally dairy-free, making it an excellent option for anyone avoiding lactose.

If you’re new to Asian-style desserts, try pairing it with the tropical Lavender Lemonade or light Cucumber Mint Agua Fresca for a truly refreshing experience.

Ingredients for Authentic Chinese Coconut Pudding

This pudding requires only a few ingredients, but quality matters. Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (13.5 oz / 400 ml) full-fat coconut milk
• ½ cup whole milk or coconut cream (120 ml)
• ¼ cup sugar (50 g)
• 2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin (or agar-agar for a vegan version)
• ¼ cup hot water (60 ml) for dissolving gelatin
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• A pinch of salt

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh mango cubes or kiwi slices
• Shredded coconut
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Drizzle of honey

If you enjoy fruit-forward sweets, you’ll also adore Peach Butter Swim Biscuits with Vanilla Glaze, which balance fruity sweetness with buttery richness.

Kitchen Tools Needed for This Coconut Dessert

You don’t need advanced equipment to make this easy coconut milk dessert — just a few kitchen basics:

• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Silicone molds or ramekins
• Strainer (for an ultra-smooth finish)

Love recipes that are simple and require minimal tools? Try Mini Pumpkin Bread With Cinnamon Swirl — another straightforward dessert that delivers big flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Chinese Coconut Pudding

1. Dissolve the gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over hot water. Stir until fully dissolved and set aside.
2. Warm the coconut milk: In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Heat gently over medium-low, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Don’t let it boil.
3. Add the gelatin mixture: Stir the dissolved gelatin into the warm coconut milk, whisking gently until fully incorporated.
4. Add milk or cream: Pour in the milk (or extra coconut cream) and mix until smooth. Remove from heat.
5. Strain and pour: Strain the mixture through a fine sieve for extra smoothness.
6. Set the pudding: Pour into small bowls, molds, or cups. Refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours or until firm.
7. Serve chilled: Garnish with fruit, shredded coconut, or a drizzle of honey.

This Chinese coconut pudding is creamy yet refreshing — the kind of dessert that feels indulgent but light enough to enjoy anytime.

If you love easy no-bake recipes, you might also enjoy the silky No Bake Nutella Pie — another chilled dessert with an irresistibly creamy texture.

Save

Tips for Perfect Easy Homemade Coconut Pudding

• Don’t boil the mixture: High heat can separate the coconut milk. Warm it gently instead.
• Dissolve gelatin completely: Undissolved gelatin will leave clumps or uneven texture.
• Use full-fat coconut milk: It creates the signature creaminess this dessert is known for.
• Chill overnight: For the best texture, let the pudding rest for at least 6 hours.
• Add a hint of vanilla or pandan: These flavorings elevate the dessert with an aromatic note.

For more creamy-textured desserts, explore Pumpkin Bread With Cream Cheese Frosting — a comfort food favorite that pairs beautifully with light puddings like this one.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Coconut Pudding

1. Overheating the coconut milk: Causes separation and a grainy texture.
2. Adding gelatin too late: It must dissolve while the mixture is warm.
3. Skipping the straining step: Results in lumps or uneven texture.
4. Not chilling long enough: The pudding won’t set properly without enough refrigeration.

If you’re working on your dessert timing, the Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches post offers great tips for prepping ahead — just like how you can make this pudding a day early.

Delicious Variations and Regional Twists

The beauty of coconut pudding lies in how easily it adapts to local flavors. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Mango Coconut Pudding: Add puréed mango to the coconut mixture before setting.
• Pandan Coconut Pudding: Replace vanilla with pandan extract for a fragrant, jade-green dessert.
• Tofu Coconut Pudding: Mix in soft silken tofu for added creaminess and protein.
• Coconut Layered Pudding: Alternate layers of coconut milk and condensed milk for extra richness.

Love experimenting with flavors? Try Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies for a sweet treat that’s just as fun to customize.

Serving Ideas for Chinese Coconut Dessert

This pudding looks elegant when served in small glass cups or cut into cubes for buffet-style presentation. Garnish with tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, or lychee for a colorful contrast.

It’s also lovely alongside tea or light snacks during afternoon gatherings. For brunch, pair it with Cheesy Zucchini Bread or Garlic Butter Corn With Melty Cheese for a fusion-style spread that mixes savory and sweet.

Pairing Ideas with Other Asian Desserts

If you’re planning a themed dessert table, this Chinese coconut pudding pairs beautifully with other Asian desserts:

• Matcha Mochi: Adds earthy green tea balance to the sweetness.
• Black Sesame Soup: Deep, nutty, and a beautiful contrast in color.
• Thai Mango Sticky Rice: Another coconut-forward favorite.
• Vietnamese Coffee Jelly: For coffee lovers who enjoy bittersweet flavors.

For Western-Asian fusions, try Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Pancakes — a fun cross-cultural dessert that’s just as easy to love.

How to Store and Chill Coconut Pudding

• Refrigeration: Store covered for up to 4–5 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended — freezing can change the texture.
• Transport tip: If serving at a party, keep chilled in a cooler until ready to serve.

To extend its shelf life without compromising texture, store it in airtight containers and avoid adding fruit until serving.

If you enjoy prepping desserts in advance, check out Pumpkin Twists — they store beautifully and make great companions to light puddings.

Easy Coconut Milk Desserts to Try Next

Love this creamy coconut flavor? Here are more coconut desserts you’ll want to add to your list:

• Cinnamon Sugar Biscuit Bites – a warm, sweet snack with a crispy finish.
• Peach Butter Swim Biscuits With Vanilla Glaze – fruity, buttery, and indulgent.
• Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bars – a hidden-vegetable treat with a sweet surprise.
• Pumpkin Fluff Dip – light, airy, and full of cozy spice.
• Apple Crisp With Oatmeal – the perfect crunchy contrast to creamy puddings.

Each recipe showcases that same balance of comfort and ease — ideal for any dessert lover.

Save

FAQs About Simple Coconut Pudding

Can I make this without gelatin?
Yes — substitute agar-agar powder for a vegetarian version.

Can I use light coconut milk?
You can, but it will yield a thinner pudding. Full-fat coconut milk creates the best texture.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, replace the milk with more coconut milk or oat milk.

Can I add sugar substitutes?
Yes — use stevia or monk fruit sweetener to reduce calories.

How long does it take to set?
Usually 3–4 hours in the fridge, or overnight for the firmest texture.

If you enjoy dairy-free sweets, you’ll also love Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Pancakes, which are light yet protein-packed.

Final Thoughts + Call to Action

Chinese Coconut Pudding is one of those timeless Asian desserts that feels both luxurious and comforting. With its silky texture, tropical aroma, and light sweetness, it’s proof that sometimes the simplest ingredients create the most elegant results.

Whether you’re serving it for family dinner, an Asian-inspired meal, or as a refreshing treat on a warm afternoon, it’s guaranteed to impress.

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends, save it for later, and subscribe to Lyndy’s Kitchen for more easy, delicious desserts inspired by global flavors.

Print