Mango Pudding

Mango pudding is a smooth, creamy, and refreshing dessert made with ripe mangoes, milk, cream, and a gelling agent such as gelatin or agar-agar. This tropical treat is especially popular in Asian cuisine and is often served chilled, making it a perfect summer dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mango pudding is a perfect blend of fruity sweetness and creamy texture. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and can be made ahead of time for special occasions. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just looking for a light dessert after a meal, mango pudding delivers both taste and elegance. This recipe is eggless, adaptable, and can be made vegetarian by using agar-agar instead of gelatin.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ripe mangoes (or mango pulp)

• Whole milk

• Heavy cream

• Sugar

• Gelatin or agar-agar powder

• Water

• Vanilla extract (optional)

• Fresh mango cubes or mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Peel and dice ripe mangoes. Blend them into a smooth puree. You will need about 1.5 to 2 cups of mango puree.

2. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin (or agar-agar powder) over a few tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.

3. In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, and sugar. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves completely. Do not let it boil.

4. Add the bloomed gelatin mixture to the warm milk-cream mixture and stir until completely dissolved.

5. Remove from heat and mix in the mango puree. Stir well to combine.

6. Add vanilla extract if using.

7. Pour the mixture into serving cups or molds. Tap gently to remove any air bubbles.

8. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.

9. Serve chilled, optionally garnished with mango cubes or mint leaves.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 to 6 portions
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Dairy-Free Version: Substitute dairy milk and cream with coconut milk or almond milk for a vegan-friendly pudding.

• Sweetener Alternatives: Replace sugar with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute if desired.

• Layered Pudding: Add layers of mango chunks or jelly between layers of pudding for texture and color.

• Spiced Mango Pudding: Add a hint of cardamom or nutmeg for a spiced variation.

Storage/Reheating

Mango pudding should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze as the texture may turn grainy.
Reheating is not recommended, as it is meant to be served chilled.

FAQs

What type of mango is best for mango pudding?

Use ripe, sweet mangoes like Alphonso, Ataulfo, or Kent for the best flavor and texture.

Can I use canned mango pulp?

Yes, canned mango pulp works well and provides consistent flavor, especially when fresh mangoes are out of season.

Is mango pudding gluten-free?

Yes, mango pudding is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten-containing ingredients.

How can I make this vegan?

Replace dairy milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk, and use agar-agar instead of gelatin.

Can I make mango pudding ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare it up to 2 days in advance and keep it refrigerated until serving.

Why did my pudding not set?

Insufficient gelatin or not allowing it enough time to chill can result in a soft set. Ensure proper blooming and full refrigeration time.

Can I freeze mango pudding?

Freezing is not recommended as it can cause the pudding to separate and become grainy once thawed.

Can I add toppings?

Yes, fresh fruits, mint leaves, whipped cream, or a drizzle of condensed milk make excellent toppings.

What can I use instead of gelatin?

Agar-agar is a great vegetarian alternative to gelatin and works well in this recipe.

Can I adjust the sweetness?

Yes, you can reduce or increase the sugar depending on the sweetness of the mangoes used.

Conclusion

Mango pudding is a luxurious, tropical dessert that is simple to prepare yet impressive to serve. Its creamy consistency and vibrant mango flavor make it a family favorite and a crowd-pleaser. With a few fresh ingredients and a little patience, you can enjoy this chilled delicacy any time of year.