Creamy Coconut Pudding: Your Ultimate Tropical Dessert Fix Recipe
Introduction
Creamy Coconut Pudding is a luscious tropical dessert that’s both comforting and refreshing. Made with rich coconut milk and a smooth custard base, it offers a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess. Whether served on its own or garnished with fresh fruit, it’s sure to satisfy your dessert cravings.

Ingredients
- 1 can full-fat Coconut Milk
- 2 large Egg Yolks
- 1/2 cup White Sugar (or coconut sugar for deeper flavor)
- 1/4 cup Cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons Butter (or coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
- 1 teaspoon Coconut Extract (optional)
- 1/4 cup Toasted Coconut Flakes (optional, for garnish)
- 1 cup Fresh Fruit (optional, for garnish)
- 1 cup Whipped Cream (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the coconut milk, sugar, cornstarch, butter, egg yolks, and coconut extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Step 2: Cook the mixture, whisking constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This should take about 4 to 7 minutes.
- Step 3: Once thickened, divide the pudding into individual serving dishes.
- Step 4: Refrigerate the pudding for at least 15 to 20 minutes to allow the texture to set properly before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra tropical flavor, add lime zest or mango puree to the mixture before thickening.
- Toast coconut flakes in a dry pan until golden to enhance their aroma and crunch when garnishing.
- Substitute butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Use coconut sugar instead of white sugar for a richer, more complex sweetness.
Storage
Store leftover coconut pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat while stirring, or enjoy it chilled. Garnishes like fresh fruit and whipped cream should be added just before serving for best texture and flavor.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this pudding vegan?
Yes, substitute the egg yolks with a plant-based thickener like cornstarch or agar-agar, and use coconut oil instead of butter to make it dairy-free and vegan-friendly.
How do I know when the pudding is done cooking?
The pudding is ready when it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon and leaves a clear line when you run your finger through it. This usually takes around 4 to 7 minutes of constant whisking over medium heat.
PrintCreamy Coconut Pudding: Your Ultimate Tropical Dessert Fix Recipe
Creamy Coconut Pudding is a luscious tropical dessert made with full-fat coconut milk, rich egg yolks, and a hint of coconut extract. This smooth pudding is thickened with cornstarch and gently cooked on the stovetop to perfect creaminess. Served chilled and optionally garnished with toasted coconut flakes, fresh tropical fruit, and whipped cream, it’s the ultimate indulgence for coconut lovers and a refreshing treat perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tropical
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Pudding
- 1 can (13.5 oz) Full-fat Coconut Milk
- 2 large Egg Yolks
- 1/2 cup White Sugar (or substitute with coconut sugar)
- 1/4 cup Cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons Butter (or substitute with coconut oil for dairy-free)
- 1 teaspoon Coconut Extract (optional but recommended)
For Garnishing (Optional)
- 1/4 cup Toasted Coconut Flakes
- 1 cup Fresh Tropical Fruit (such as mango, pineapple, or papaya)
- 1 cup Whipped Cream
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the coconut milk, sugar, cornstarch, butter, egg yolks, and coconut extract until smooth and fully combined, ensuring there are no lumps from the cornstarch.
- Cook the Pudding: Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly to prevent lumps and sticking. Cook until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, which typically takes about 4 to 7 minutes.
- Portion and Chill: Once thickened, remove from heat and immediately divide the pudding into individual serving dishes for portioning.
- Refrigerate: Place the pudding in the refrigerator and chill for at least 15 to 20 minutes to allow it to fully set and develop its creamy texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, optionally garnish with toasted coconut flakes, fresh tropical fruit, and a dollop of whipped cream for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- For added flavor, incorporate lime zest or mango puree into the pudding mixture before thickening.
- Ensure to toast the coconut flakes before garnishing to enhance their aroma and crunch.
- Use coconut oil as a dairy-free alternative to butter to make this pudding suitable for those avoiding dairy.
- If using coconut sugar, the pudding will have a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
- Constant whisking is essential to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth pudding consistency.
Keywords: coconut pudding, tropical dessert, creamy pudding, coconut milk dessert, stovetop pudding, dairy-free option

