As I rummaged through my pantry on a warm afternoon, I stumbled upon a treasure—canned mango pulp, waiting to be transformed into something special. That’s when the idea for Easy 5-Ingredient Mango Pudding came to life! This delightful Chinese dessert is not only quick to whip up, but its creamy texture and tropical flavor will transport you straight to summertime bliss. With minimal prep time and just five simple ingredients, you’ll discover how effortlessly satisfying it is to create a dish that’s both a crowd-pleaser and a sweet escape from the hustle of fast food. Ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful treat? Let’s dive into the magic of Mango Pudding, where every bite is like a mini vacation!

Why is Mango Pudding a Must-Try?
Easy, This Mango Pudding recipe simplifies dessert-making with just five ingredients, making it perfect for busy days.
Creamy Delight: The use of evaporated milk results in a luxuriously smooth texture that melts in your mouth, giving you the taste of a gourmet dessert without the fuss.
Tropical Flavor: Canned mango pulp provides consistent sweetness and flavor, transporting you to tropical paradises with every bite. For an even fresher taste, consider using fresh mangoes, which can enhance the flavor profile beautifully.
Versatile: Enjoy it plain, or elevate it by adding diced fruits or a splash of coconut milk for a unique twist. This pudding adapts to your tastes and is sure to impress your guests!
Quick and Satisfying: With minimal prep and just a couple hours to set, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready in no time, perfect for any gathering or cozy evening at home.
Whether you’re looking to impress or just want to treat yourself, this Mango Pudding will surely be a favorite!
Mango Pudding Ingredients
For the Pudding
- Gelatin – Vital for achieving that delightful, jelly-like texture; about 2½ packets will do the trick.
- Sugar – This sweetener balances the fruity mango flavor; feel free to adjust based on the sweetness of your mango pulp.
- Boiling Water – Use one cup to properly activate the gelatin, ensuring a smooth and creamy mixture.
- Evaporated Milk – Provides a rich base for the pudding; you can swap it with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Mango Pulp – The star ingredient that infuses the pudding with vibrant flavor; canned Kesar mango pulp is recommended for its smooth texture and convenience.
For the Flavor Boost
- Lemon Juice – Just a splash adds a lovely tang and enhances the flavor, especially if your mango pulp is on the sweeter side; fresh lemon juice is best.
Embrace the joy of making this Mango Pudding, where every ingredient plays a role in crafting a refreshing dessert that everyone will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mango Pudding
Step 1: Prepare Gelatin and Sugar Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2½ packets of gelatin and ½ cup of sugar. This blend will give your Mango Pudding its silky consistency. Pour in 1 cup of boiling water and stir the mixture with a whisk for about 2 minutes. Keep whisking until the gelatin and sugar are completely dissolved and the mixture is clear.
Step 2: Add Creaminess with Evaporated Milk
Once your gelatin and sugar have dissolved, add 1 cup of evaporated milk to the bowl. This ingredient is crucial for creating the creamy base of your Mango Pudding. Stir well to ensure it incorporates smoothly and everything is well-blended, creating a rich consistency that invites the flavor of the mango to shine through.
Step 3: Incorporate Mango Pulp and Lemon Juice
Next, gently fold in 1 cup of canned mango pulp and the juice of half a lemon. This combination infuses your pudding with vibrant tropical flavor. Use a whisk to thoroughly mix the ingredients, ensuring no lumps remain and the lemon juice enhances the sweetness. The mixture should be a beautiful, bright orange hue.
Step 4: Chill for the Perfect Set
Pour the mango mixture into ramekins, a bowl, or a silicone mold, depending on your serving preference. Place it in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours, allowing the Mango Pudding to set. When done, it should be firm yet slightly soft to the touch, perfect for unmolding or serving directly.
Step 5: Prepare for Serving
If using a silicone mold, lightly coat it with oil beforehand to make release easy. For ramekins, you can leave them as-is. After chilling, run a knife along the edges of the pudding to ensure it releases smoothly. The final Mango Pudding should hold its shape beautifully, ready for delightful presentation and enjoyment.

Make Ahead Options
These Mango Pudding preparations are a lifesaver for busy cooks looking to streamline dessert-making! You can prepare the pudding mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the initial steps of combining your gelatin, sugar, and boiling water, then whisk in evaporated milk, mango pulp, and lemon juice. After mixing, pour it into bowls or molds and refrigerate it. It will maintain its delightful texture and flavor, just as delicious when served after a day in the fridge! When it’s time to serve, allow the pudding to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly, then unmold or serve directly from the ramekins for a refreshing treat ready to impress your guests.
What to Serve with Easy 5-Ingredient Mango Pudding
Imagine a delightful dinner gathering where every element invites indulgence, and your Mango Pudding shines as the refreshing finale.
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Coconut Sticky Rice: The creamy, sweet rice balances the pudding, adding a chewy texture that’s both comforting and delightful. It creates a tropical vibe that’s hard to resist.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of tropical fruits like kiwi, pineapple, and berries provides a refreshing crunch, enhancing the vibrant flavors in the pudding.
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Almond Cookies: These crunchy, nutty treats are a fabulous contrast to the smooth pudding. Their light sweetness pairs beautifully, making every bite a pleasing adventure.
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Jasmine Tea: Served hot or iced, this fragrant tea cleanses the palate and adds a gentle floral note that complements the dessert’s tropical sweetness.
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Mini Citrus Tartlets: The zesty tartness of lemon or lime in these bite-sized pastries creates a vibrant contrast, accentuating the creamy mango and keeping your guests asking for more.
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Mango Lassi: This creamy yogurt drink infused with mango and a hint of cardamom is a refreshing companion, echoing the flavors of your luscious dessert while adding a fun, drinkable element to the meal.
Mango Pudding is not just a dessert; it’s a treat that beautifully rounds out an enticing meal!
Storage Tips for Mango Pudding
Fridge: Store leftover Mango Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its creamy texture and flavor.
Freezer: If you wish to enjoy Mango Pudding later, freeze it in a well-sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.
Reheating: Serve chilled; do not heat this dessert as it can lose its delicate consistency.
Serving Tips: Top with fresh fruit or a drizzle of coconut cream just before serving to enhance flavor and presentation!
Expert Tips for Mango Pudding
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Use Quality Pulp: Select high-quality canned mango pulp to ensure a rich flavor; cheaper brands may lack the vibrant taste you desire.
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Mind the Gelatin: Thoroughly dissolve the gelatin in boiling water; undissolved granules can lead to an uneven texture in your Mango Pudding.
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Chill Time Matters: Follow the full chill time of at least 2 hours to achieve the perfect set; rushing this step may result in a soupy pudding.
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Add Freshness: Incorporate fresh lemon juice for a zesty kick; it beautifully enhances the flavor, especially if your mango pulp is overly sweet.
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Experiment with Flavors: Customize your Mango Pudding by blending in a touch of coconut milk or adding fresh diced fruits—this adds both flavor and texture.
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Storage Best Practices: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; this keeps it fresh and preserves its deliciousness.
Mango Pudding Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make this Mango Pudding uniquely yours with these delightful variations!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute evaporated milk with coconut milk for a dairy-free, tropical twist that adds creaminess without any lactose.
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Fresh Mango: Use ripe, fresh mangoes instead of canned pulp. Just blend them well to achieve that smooth texture and bring a fresher taste to your pudding.
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Adding Spice: Incorporate a pinch of cardamom or cinnamon for an aromatic flavor boost. This adds depth and warmth that beautifully complements the mango.
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Fruit Fusion: Mix in diced fresh fruits like kiwi or strawberries before chilling for a vibrant burst of color and flavor in your pudding.
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Extra Creamy: Use heavy cream in place of evaporated milk for a richer, even creamier texture, perfect for indulgent dessert lovers.
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Flavor Infusion: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a hint of sweetness that deepens the overall flavor experience.
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Tropical Heat: For a spicy twist, mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños. A little heat can elevate the creamy sweetness of the pudding.
If you’re looking to enhance and delight your guests even further, consider pairing your Mango Pudding with a drizzle of homemade coconut cream or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for added flavor and a crunchy texture. Enjoy experimenting!

Mango Pudding Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best mango pulp?
Absolutely! When selecting canned mango pulp, look for brands that use Kesar mangoes, as they have a sweeter and richer flavor. Check the ingredient list for any added preservatives or excessive sugar; ideally, it should contain just mango pulp and maybe a splash of lemon juice. For fresh mangoes, ensure they are ripe and fragrant, with a slight give when gently squeezed—this sweetens the pudding beautifully!
How should I store leftover Mango Pudding?
To keep your delicious Mango Pudding fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its silky texture and flavor. Make sure the pudding is completely cooled before sealing it up to avoid condensation that can affect the texture. I often keep it in individual ramekins for easy serving!
Can I freeze Mango Pudding for later use?
Yes, you can freeze Mango Pudding! Pour the pudding into a well-sealed, freezer-safe container and store it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply place the container in the refrigerator overnight to thaw. Avoid microwaving or heating it, as that can alter its delicate consistency; serve chilled for the best experience.
What if my pudding doesn’t set properly?
No worries! If your Mango Pudding doesn’t set, it might be due to the gelatin not dissolving completely or insufficient chilling time. Make sure to whisk the gelatin in boiling water until fully dissolved and allow it to chill for at least 2 hours—this is essential for proper texture. If it still doesn’t set, you can blend a little extra gelatin with boiling water and gently fold it in before refrigerating again.
Is Mango Pudding suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Certainly! This Mango Pudding is vegetarian and can be easily adapted to fit different dietary needs. To make it dairy-free, substitute the evaporated milk with coconut milk. Always check the canned mango pulp for any potential allergens like added preservatives. If you have pets, avoid feeding them this treat, as the sugar levels may not be suitable for them.
What toppings go well with Mango Pudding?
The more the merrier! Consider topping your Mango Pudding with fresh fruits like berries, diced mangoes, or kiwi to add flavor and color. A sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or a drizzle of coconut cream can elevate the dish further. For a hint of spice, try adding a sprinkle of cardamom to complement the tropical flavors. Enjoy!

Creamy Mango Pudding: A Simple 5-Ingredient Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2½ packets of gelatin and ½ cup of sugar. Pour in 1 cup of boiling water and stir until dissolved.
- Add 1 cup of evaporated milk to the mixture and stir well to create a creamy base.
- Gently fold in 1 cup of canned mango pulp and the juice of half a lemon, mixing thoroughly.
- Pour the mango mixture into serving containers and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
- Ensure smooth release from molds before serving, and present with fresh toppings if desired.
