Chinese Mango Pudding is a dessert that captures the essence of tropical indulgence while remaining remarkably light and refreshing. Popular across Cantonese cuisine and often featured in dim sum menus, it has gained international recognition for its creamy texture and vibrant mango flavor. Unlike heavy Western puddings, this treat leans on the natural sweetness and brightness of ripe mangoes, making it suitable for both casual family meals and special occasions. The pudding is smooth, slightly wobbly, and delicately creamy, providing a refreshing counterbalance to savory or spicy dishes. Its preparation is straightforward, requiring only a few simple ingredients such as ripe yellow mangoes, gelatin, coconut milk, and a touch of condensed milk for sweetness. What results is a dessert that feels indulgent yet not overwhelming, with just the right balance between fruity freshness and silky creaminess.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 yellow, ripe mangoes (about 1 cup mango puree)

• ¾ cup boiling water (to dissolve gelatin)

• ½ cup coconut milk (or half-and-half for creamier texture)

• 1 tablespoon condensed milk

• ½ to 1 tablespoon sugar (adjust based on mango sweetness)

• 2½ teaspoons gelatin (one packet of Knox)

Directions

• Dissolve gelatin in boiling water, making sure the water is hot enough to fully melt it. Set aside once dissolved.

• Peel the mangoes and puree them until smooth in a blender. Yellow mangoes are best for their natural sweetness, but very ripe alternatives can be used with sugar adjusted accordingly.

• In a small saucepan, combine the coconut milk (or half-and-half), condensed milk, sugar, and dissolved gelatin mixture. Warm over low-medium heat, stirring gently for 3–5 minutes until steaming but not boiling. Taste and adjust sweetness. Optionally, add small mango chunks for texture.

• Pour the mixture into serving bowls or molds and refrigerate overnight to set. For serving, top with diluted condensed milk (½ teaspoon water mixed with 1 teaspoon condensed milk) and fresh mango pieces if desired.

Nutrients

• Calories: 148 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 21 g

• Protein: 4 g

• Fat: 7 g

• Saturated Fat: 6 g

• Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2 g

• Monounsaturated Fat: 1 g

• Cholesterol: 2 mg

• Sodium: 18 mg

• Potassium: 255 mg

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sugar: 18 g

• Vitamin A: 1,133 IU

• Vitamin C: 38 mg

• Calcium: 33 mg

• Iron: 1 mg

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This mango pudding is special because it captures a balance between simplicity and elegance. Many desserts rely on heavy creams or copious sugar to impress, but this recipe takes a different approach. By highlighting the natural flavor of ripe mangoes, it creates a tropical dessert that is vibrant yet not overly sweet. The gelatin ensures a delicate, silky texture that wobbles just enough to feel luxurious without being dense. The inclusion of coconut milk gives it a slight exotic flair, making the pudding creamy but still refreshing. The ease of preparation also sets it apart, as you can achieve restaurant-quality results at home without complicated steps or specialized equipment. This is the kind of dessert that feels indulgent yet health-conscious, making it perfect for both everyday enjoyment and entertaining.

The Benefits of the Ingredients

Each ingredient contributes to the unique charm of this pudding while also adding nutritional value. Mangoes, often referred to as the “king of fruits,” are loaded with vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber. Their natural sweetness allows you to minimize added sugars, creating a healthier dessert option. Coconut milk, on the other hand, provides a creamy base that contrasts beautifully with the fruity brightness of the mango. It brings healthy fats into the dish, which help create satiety while also adding a distinct tropical note. Gelatin plays a crucial role by binding the pudding into its soft but firm texture; beyond its structural use, gelatin also offers benefits for joint and skin health. Condensed milk and sugar act as balancing agents, allowing you to fine-tune sweetness without masking the mango’s natural flavor. The optional topping of diluted condensed milk not only elevates the presentation but also provides a gentle tang that enhances the richness of the dish.

Cooking Tips

There are a few key tips that can make this pudding truly exceptional. Always dissolve gelatin in boiling water, as lukewarm water often results in undissolved granules that can ruin the smoothness. The choice of mango is also critical—yellow mangoes such as Ataulfo or Manila varieties yield the best results because of their sweetness and low fiber content. If you only have fibrous mangoes available, strain the puree to remove any stringy texture before incorporating it. When heating the coconut milk mixture, keep the flame low and avoid boiling, as excessive heat may alter the flavor of the milk and diminish the vibrant notes of the mango. Taste the mixture before chilling, as sweetness varies widely depending on the ripeness of the fruit. Finally, be patient with chilling time. Allowing the pudding to set overnight ensures a perfect texture that is firm yet silky. For presentation, serving it in glass bowls or molds highlights its bright color, and garnishes like mint leaves or fresh fruit make it look as appealing as it tastes.

Serving Suggestions

This dessert shines when served cold straight from the refrigerator. Its lightness makes it ideal after a hearty dinner, particularly when paired with Chinese, Thai, or other Asian-inspired cuisines. For a minimalist serving, garnish with small cubes of fresh mango or a few mint leaves for a pop of green. If you want to create a contrast in texture, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top, which complement the coconut milk base. A drizzle of diluted condensed milk adds a creamy swirl and elevates the dessert’s visual appeal. To make the pudding part of a more elaborate spread, serve it alongside a pot of jasmine or oolong tea, which balances the tropical sweetness with floral or earthy notes. For a modern twist, consider layering the pudding with crushed biscuits or a fruit compote to create parfait-style desserts, perfect for dinner parties or festive occasions. Clear glasses or transparent molds also allow the vibrant orange-yellow color to shine, making it as beautiful as it is delicious.

Conclusion

Chinese Mango Pudding represents the perfect harmony of tropical flavors and smooth, creamy textures. It embodies the elegance of traditional dim sum desserts while being approachable enough for home cooks of all skill levels. What makes it truly captivating is its balance—it is indulgent without heaviness, sweet without being cloying, and refreshing enough to be enjoyed year-round. The simple combination of mango, coconut milk, gelatin, and a touch of sweetness results in a dessert that feels timeless and universally appealing. It can be prepared ahead of time, making it convenient for busy hosts or family gatherings. Whether you’re serving it as a cooling summer treat or as a refined ending to a festive meal, this pudding never fails to impress. The vibrant mango flavor, the soft wobble of the gelatin, and the creamy richness of the coconut milk all come together to create a dessert that delights both the eyes and the palate. More than just a recipe, it’s an experience of tropical indulgence that brings warmth, freshness, and joy to any table.