Creamy Mango Pudding

Bianca

Founder of Red Recipe

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It’s funny how some of the simplest recipes can become absolute staples in your household. This Creamy Mango Pudding recipe is a perfect example. I first stumbled upon it while looking for a light and refreshing dessert for a summer family gathering. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting much – just another pudding, I thought. But from the very first spoonful, everyone was hooked! The smooth, velvety texture, the intense burst of mango flavor, and the subtle sweetness – it was pure dessert perfection. My kids, who are usually picky eaters, devoured it in minutes, and my husband declared it his new favorite dessert. Since then, this mango pudding has become a regular treat in our home, perfect for hot days, special occasions, or simply when we crave a little tropical indulgence. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers maximum flavor. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both impressive and effortless, look no further – this Creamy Mango Pudding is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients for the Perfect Creamy Mango Pudding

Here’s what you’ll need to create this luscious mango dessert. We’ve kept the ingredient list concise and focused on quality to ensure the best flavor and texture.

Ripe Mangoes (Pulp): The star of the show! You’ll need about 2 cups of ripe mango pulp. Use Alphonso, Kent, or Ataulfo mangoes for their sweetness and smooth texture. Frozen mango pulp, thawed, can also be used in a pinch.
Heavy Cream: For that signature creamy richness. 1 cup of heavy cream, also known as whipping cream, with at least 35% milk fat, is essential for the velvety texture.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and a creamy consistency. You’ll need ½ cup of sweetened condensed milk. Adjust the amount slightly to your sweetness preference, especially depending on the sweetness of your mangoes.
Gelatin Powder: The secret to the pudding’s perfect set. 1 tablespoon of unflavored gelatin powder is needed to give the pudding its firm yet melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Water (for Gelatin): To bloom the gelatin. ¼ cup of cold water is used to hydrate and activate the gelatin powder.
Vanilla Extract (Optional): Enhances the flavor profile. A teaspoon of pure vanilla extract adds a subtle warmth and depth to the mango flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Creamy Mango Pudding

Making this Creamy Mango Pudding is surprisingly simple. Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof dessert every time!

Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin

In a small, heatproof bowl, sprinkle the gelatin powder evenly over ¼ cup of cold water.
Let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This process, called blooming, allows the gelatin granules to absorb the water and soften, ensuring it dissolves smoothly and evenly later. You’ll notice the mixture becoming thick and jelly-like. Blooming is crucial for preventing lumps in your pudding.

Step 2: Prepare the Mango Pulp

If you’re using fresh mangoes, peel and chop them into chunks.
Transfer the mango chunks to a blender or food processor.
Blend until you achieve a smooth and lump-free pulp. Ensure there are no stringy bits left from the mango.
Measure out 2 cups of mango pulp and set aside. If using frozen mango pulp, thaw it completely and then measure 2 cups.

Step 3: Heat the Gelatin Mixture

Once the gelatin has bloomed, you need to dissolve it completely.
You can do this in two ways:
- Microwave: Place the bowl with the bloomed gelatin in the microwave and heat it in short 10-15 second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the gelatin is completely dissolved and liquid. Be careful not to overheat it, as this can weaken its setting power.
- Double Boiler or Stovetop: Alternatively, place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler method) or gently heat it in a saucepan over very low heat on the stovetop. Stir continuously until the gelatin is fully dissolved and clear. Again, avoid boiling.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, pour in the heavy cream.
Add the sweetened condensed milk to the bowl.
Pour in the prepared mango pulp.
If using vanilla extract, add it now.

Step 5: Incorporate the Dissolved Gelatin

Gently whisk the heavy cream, condensed milk, mango pulp, and vanilla extract (if using) together until they are well combined and smooth.
Now, slowly pour the dissolved gelatin mixture into the bowl while continuously whisking the mango mixture. This step is important to ensure the gelatin is evenly distributed and doesn’t clump. Whisk until everything is thoroughly incorporated and you have a homogenous mixture.

Step 6: Pour into Serving Dishes

Prepare your serving dishes. You can use individual ramekins, small bowls, glasses, or a larger serving dish depending on your preference and presentation style.
Pour the mango pudding mixture evenly into the prepared serving dishes.

Step 7: Chill and Set

Cover the serving dishes with plastic wrap or lids to prevent a skin from forming on the surface and to avoid absorbing refrigerator odors.
Refrigerate the pudding for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set completely. The chilling time is crucial for the gelatin to work its magic and create the desired firm and creamy texture.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the pudding is fully set, it’s ready to serve.
Garnish as desired (see “How to Serve” section for ideas) and enjoy this delightful and refreshing Creamy Mango Pudding!

Nutrition Facts of Creamy Mango Pudding

Here’s a general overview of the nutritional information for a serving of Creamy Mango Pudding. Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and mango variety.

Servings: Approximately 6 servings (depending on serving size)
Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories (estimated)
Fat: 15-20g (primarily from heavy cream)

Please note: This pudding is a dessert and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The nutritional values are estimates and may vary.

Preparation Time for Creamy Mango Pudding

This recipe is loved for its minimal active preparation time! Here’s a breakdown:

Prep Time: 15-20 minutes (This includes blooming gelatin, preparing mango pulp, and mixing ingredients).
Cook Time: 5-10 minutes (for dissolving gelatin – minimal heat is involved).
Chill Time: Minimum 4-6 hours (ideally overnight) for setting.
Total Time: Approximately 4 hours 20 minutes to overnight (mostly inactive chilling time).

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Most of the time is spent waiting for the pudding to chill and set, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time. You can easily whip this up in the evening and have a delightful dessert ready for the next day!

How to Serve Creamy Mango Pudding

The versatility of Creamy Mango Pudding extends to serving options. Here are some delightful ways to present and enjoy this dessert:

Chilled and Simple: The most classic way! Serve the pudding straight from the refrigerator, chilled and refreshing. Its smooth texture and vibrant mango flavor are perfect on their own.
With Fresh Mango Slices: Enhance the mango experience by topping each serving with thin slices of fresh, ripe mango. This adds a burst of fresh fruitiness and visual appeal.
Whipped Cream Swirl: A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a swirl of store-bought whipped cream adds an extra layer of creaminess and indulgence. You can also lightly sweeten the whipped cream with a touch of vanilla or powdered sugar.
Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the pudding for a textural contrast and a subtle nutty flavor that complements mango beautifully. Toasting the coconut enhances its flavor and crunch.
Chopped Pistachios or Almonds: For a nutty crunch and visual elegance, garnish with finely chopped pistachios or almonds. Their vibrant green and brown hues contrast beautifully with the yellow pudding.
Mango Coulis Drizzle: Create a simple mango coulis by blending a small amount of mango pulp with a touch of sugar and lemon juice. Drizzle this vibrant sauce over the pudding for an intensified mango flavor and a beautiful presentation.
Mint Sprig Garnish: A fresh mint sprig adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal. The bright green color contrasts nicely with the yellow pudding and offers a subtle aromatic hint.
Layered Dessert in Glasses: For a more elegant presentation, layer the mango pudding with crushed cookies (like graham crackers or digestive biscuits), or sponge cake pieces in tall glasses or dessert cups. This creates a parfait-like dessert with varying textures and flavors.
Accompanied by Shortbread Cookies: Serve the pudding alongside crisp shortbread cookies or biscotti for dipping or enjoying as a side. The buttery cookies provide a nice textural contrast to the smooth pudding.
In Individual Ramekins: Baking the pudding is not required, but serving in individual ramekins provides a sophisticated and portion-controlled dessert. They are perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.

Additional Tips for the Best Creamy Mango Pudding

Elevate your Creamy Mango Pudding from good to absolutely spectacular with these helpful tips:

Choose the Right Mangoes: The quality of your mangoes is paramount. Opt for ripe, sweet, and fragrant mangoes. Alphonso, Kent, and Ataulfo varieties are excellent choices due to their smooth, non-fibrous pulp and intense flavor. Avoid mangoes that are overly fibrous or tart.
Taste and Adjust Sweetness: Mangoes vary in sweetness. After blending your mango pulp, taste it. If your mangoes are very sweet, you may want to slightly reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk. Conversely, if they are less sweet, you might need to add a touch more. Adjust the sweetness to your personal preference.
Ensure Gelatin is Fully Dissolved: Undissolved gelatin can result in a grainy or lumpy pudding. Be patient and ensure the gelatin is completely dissolved and clear when you heat it. Microwave in short intervals or use a double boiler for best results. Avoid overheating or boiling the gelatin, as this can weaken its setting properties.
Cool the Gelatin Slightly Before Adding: While the gelatin needs to be dissolved and liquid, let it cool slightly before adding it to the mango mixture. Adding very hot gelatin to cold cream and mango pulp can sometimes cause it to clump or set unevenly. A slightly cooled, but still liquid, gelatin is ideal.
Whisk Thoroughly and Evenly: When combining the gelatin with the mango mixture, whisk thoroughly and evenly. This ensures the gelatin is distributed throughout the pudding, resulting in a smooth and consistent texture. Gentle but thorough whisking is key.
Don’t Over Chill: While chilling is essential for setting, excessively long chilling times (beyond overnight) can sometimes make the pudding slightly firmer than desired. 4-6 hours or overnight is usually sufficient. If you find it too firm after prolonged chilling, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Control Texture with Gelatin: For a firmer pudding, you can slightly increase the gelatin quantity by a teaspoon. For a softer, more delicate set, you can slightly reduce it by half a teaspoon. Experiment to find your preferred texture. However, avoid drastically altering the gelatin quantity as it can affect the pudding’s overall structure.
Make it Vegan (Slightly Modified): While this recipe is traditionally dairy-based, you can explore vegan alternatives with slight modifications. Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream (refrigerated overnight and only using the thick cream part) and sweetened condensed milk with vegan condensed milk alternatives (available in some stores or online). Use agar-agar powder instead of gelatin (follow package instructions for agar-agar as the usage is different from gelatin). The texture and flavor will be slightly different, but it can be a good vegan-friendly adaptation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Creamy Mango Pudding

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making and enjoying Creamy Mango Pudding:

Q1: Can I use frozen mango pulp instead of fresh mangoes?
A: Yes, you can definitely use frozen mango pulp. Ensure it’s fully thawed before using. Using frozen pulp is a convenient option, especially when fresh mangoes are not in season or readily available. The flavor might be slightly less intense compared to the freshest, ripest mangoes, but it still makes a delicious pudding.

Q2: Can I reduce the amount of sugar in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can adjust the sweetness. Sweetened condensed milk provides both sweetness and creaminess. You can reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk, especially if your mangoes are very sweet. Taste the mango pulp before adding the condensed milk and adjust accordingly. You can also use a less sweet variety of condensed milk if available.

Q3: How long does Creamy Mango Pudding last in the refrigerator?
A: Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Creamy Mango Pudding will typically last for 3-4 days. It’s best consumed within this timeframe for optimal flavor and texture. Ensure it’s covered to prevent it from drying out or absorbing refrigerator odors.

Q4: Can I make this pudding ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This is one of the great advantages of this recipe. Creamy Mango Pudding is perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, it’s best made a day in advance to allow ample chilling and setting time. Prepare it 1-2 days ahead of when you plan to serve it.

Q5: What if my pudding doesn’t set properly?
A: If your pudding doesn’t set, it could be due to a few reasons:
* Insufficient Gelatin: Ensure you used the correct amount of gelatin and measured it accurately.
* Gelatin Not Fully Dissolved: Make sure the gelatin was completely dissolved and liquid before adding it to the mango mixture. Undissolved gelatin won’t set properly.
* Weak Gelatin: Expired or old gelatin might lose its setting power. Use fresh gelatin for best results.
* Insufficient Chilling Time: Ensure you chilled the pudding for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight. If it’s still too soft after this time, you might need to chill it for longer.
In mild cases of under-setting, you can sometimes try chilling it for a few more hours. However, if it’s significantly under-set, it might be difficult to salvage it.

Q6: Can I use agar-agar instead of gelatin?
A: Yes, you can use agar-agar powder as a vegetarian alternative to gelatin. However, agar-agar behaves differently than gelatin. You’ll need to use a smaller quantity of agar-agar and follow specific instructions for activation (usually boiling it in liquid). Refer to agar-agar packaging instructions and online resources for proper conversion and usage. The texture of agar-agar set pudding might be slightly firmer than gelatin-based pudding.

Q7: Can I make this pudding without condensed milk?
A: While condensed milk contributes significantly to the creamy texture and sweetness, you could try alternatives. You could potentially substitute it with a combination of heavy cream and sugar, or use evaporated milk along with sugar. However, the texture and flavor profile will be different. Using condensed milk is the easiest way to achieve the classic creamy mango pudding texture.

Q8: Is it possible to double or triple this recipe?
A: Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe to serve a larger crowd. Simply multiply all ingredient quantities by the desired factor. Ensure you use a large enough bowl for mixing and adjust chilling time if necessary for larger quantities. When making larger batches, ensure the gelatin is still evenly distributed throughout the mixture.