Name: Vegan Mango Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 200 ml coconut cream; 150 ml (2/3 cup) water; 1/4 cup sugar (heaped); 1 tsp agar agar powder; 1 pinch salt; 2 Alphonso mangoes; 1/2 cup fresh mango pulp; 1 cup water; 3 tbsp sugar; 1 tsp lemon juice; 1 pinch salt; 1 tsp agar agar powder

Why You’ll Love Vegan Mango Pudding Recipe

Completely plant-based and dairy-free
Made with real mango and coconut cream for authentic tropical flavor
Naturally gluten-free
Elegant layered presentation with minimal effort
Perfect for parties since it can be prepared in advance
Light, refreshing, and not overly sweet

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Mango layer
200 ml coconut cream
150 ml water
1/4 cup sugar, heaped
1 tsp agar agar powder
1 pinch salt
2 Alphonso mangoes
1/2 cup fresh mango pulp
1 cup water
3 tbsp sugar
1 tsp lemon juice
1 pinch salt
1 tsp agar agar powder

Directions

Mango layer
Slice the mangoes on both sides and scoop out the pulp. Collect all the sweet pulp.
Place the pulp in a blender and puree until smooth.
In a saucepan, combine mango puree, water, sugar, and agar agar. Mix well.
Heat over low to medium flame until everything dissolves completely.
When the mixture is just about to boil, switch off the flame.
Squeeze in the lemon juice and add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor and prevent a flat taste.
Place serving glasses in a muffin tray at a slanting angle.
Pour the mango mixture into the glasses up to the rim. Refrigerate for about 1 hour or until set.
Coconut cream layer
In a saucepan, add coconut cream.
Add water, sugar, salt, and agar agar. Heat on low flame, stirring continuously until the sugar and agar agar dissolve completely.
Pour the coconut mixture over the already set mango layer.
Refrigerate again until fully set. As it cools, it will firm up perfectly.
Before serving, top with freshly chopped mango pieces if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use different mango varieties if Alphonso is not available, such as Ataulfo or Kent.

Add a thin third layer made with passion fruit puree for a tangy twist.

Replace sugar with maple syrup or coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free option.

Pour the pudding into silicone molds instead of glasses for a decorative presentation.

Add a few crushed cardamom seeds to the coconut layer for a subtle spiced flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store the pudding covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Do not freeze, as the texture may change once thawed.

This dessert is best served chilled. Reheating is not recommended because agar agar will melt when heated and may not reset with the same texture.

FAQs

Can I use canned mango pulp instead of fresh mango?

Yes, canned mango pulp works well. Choose unsweetened pulp and adjust the sugar accordingly.

What can I use instead of agar agar?

Agar agar is essential for a vegan version. Gelatin is not suitable if you want to keep the recipe vegan.

Why didn’t my pudding set properly?

The mixture must reach a gentle boil to activate agar agar. If it does not heat sufficiently, it may not set.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, it is ideal for making a day in advance and storing in the refrigerator.

How do I avoid lumps when using agar agar?

Always mix agar agar thoroughly with the liquid before heating and stir continuously while cooking.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, you can adjust the sweetness based on the natural sweetness of your mangoes.

Is coconut milk the same as coconut cream?

Coconut cream is thicker and richer. Coconut milk can be used, but the layer will be lighter and less creamy.

How long does it take to set?

Each layer typically takes about 45 to 60 minutes in the refrigerator to firm up.

Can I make this in one single layer instead of two?

Yes, you can combine both mixtures for a single-layer pudding, but you will lose the layered effect.

Can I serve this warm?

No, this dessert is meant to be served chilled since agar agar sets firmly when cooled.

Conclusion

This vegan mango pudding is a simple yet stunning dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of ripe mangoes and the richness of coconut cream. With its smooth texture and refreshing flavor, it is a delightful treat for any occasion. Easy to prepare and beautifully layered, it is sure to impress family and guests alike.