Inspired by the minimalist elegance of Yezi-style coconut dessert cafes, this Coconut Pandan Jelly Dessert is a light, plant-based treat that delivers tropical flavor and silky texture in every bite. Made with coconut water, coconut milk, and a gentle touch of pandan essence, these jelly cups are a refreshing way to end a meal. Vegan, gluten-free, and easy to prepare, this coconut dessert is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate — perfect for warm days or as a calming, palate-cleansing finish to a special dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Naturally vegan and gluten-free: Suitable for a variety of diets without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Easy to make: Requires minimal ingredients and simple cooking techniques.
Delicately sweet and fragrant: The combination of coconut and pandan offers a lightly sweet, floral experience.
Chilled and refreshing: Best served cold, making it ideal for hot weather or as a light dessert.
Customizable: Can be topped with fruit, coconut cream, or served simply on its own.

ingredients

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

Young coconut water (unsweetened)
Coconut milk (canned, well stirred)
Granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
Pandan extract or fresh pandan leaves (optional)
Agar-agar powder (vegetarian gelatin substitute)

Suggested toppings:

Diced mango
Coconut flesh strips
Kiwi or other tropical fruits
Coconut cream

directions

Mix liquids: In a saucepan (off heat), combine the coconut water and coconut milk. If using pandan leaves, tie them in a knot and add to the liquid.
Hydrate agar-agar: Sprinkle agar-agar powder evenly over the liquid and let it sit for 5 minutes to hydrate, which helps prevent clumps.
Dissolve and sweeten: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Add the sugar and stir constantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and simmer for 1–2 minutes to fully activate the agar-agar.
Add pandan extract (if using): If using pandan extract instead of leaves, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir it in now to preserve its delicate aroma.
Strain and pour: Remove the pandan leaves if used. Pour the hot mixture through a fine sieve into a measuring cup or bowl to remove any undissolved bits. Immediately pour into small serving cups or ramekins.
Set the jelly: Let the mixture cool at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set.
Serve chilled: Once firm and opaque, serve the jelly cups cold. Top with diced mango, coconut strips, or kiwi, and optionally finish with a spoonful of coconut cream.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 small dessert cups.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Total time: approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes.

Variations

Layered jelly: Pour half the coconut mixture, let it partially set, then top with another flavor layer such as mango or lychee jelly.
No pandan version: Simply omit pandan for a pure coconut flavor.
Sweeter jelly: Add an extra tablespoon of sugar if you prefer a sweeter dessert.
Creamy topping: Mix a bit of coconut milk with condensed coconut milk for a rich drizzle on top.
Mini molds: Pour into silicone molds for fun shapes that can be unmolded for presentation.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Do not freeze, as freezing will alter the texture of the agar-based jelly.
No reheating required: This dessert is best served chilled.

FAQs

Can I use gelatin instead of agar-agar?

Agar-agar is preferred for a firmer, plant-based jelly. Gelatin may work, but it requires different ratios and isn’t vegan.

What does pandan taste like?

Pandan has a floral, grassy, and slightly nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with coconut.

Is this dessert overly sweet?

No, this recipe is lightly sweetened in the style of modern Asian desserts. You can adjust sugar to your taste.

Can I use boxed coconut milk?

Canned coconut milk is best for a richer, creamier result. Boxed versions may be too thin.

Do I need to oil the molds before pouring the jelly?

No, agar jelly does not stick and can be easily unmolded once set.

Can I make this without pandan?

Yes, the recipe works well without pandan if you prefer a pure coconut flavor.

How long does it take to set?

Agar sets at room temperature but is best chilled for at least 2 hours for full firmness and flavor.

What can I serve with these jelly cups?

They pair well with fresh tropical fruits, a drizzle of coconut cream, or a small shortbread cookie.

Can I add fruit inside the jelly?

Yes, add small diced fruit after pouring the mixture into cups, before it sets.

Is agar-agar easy to find?

It is widely available in Asian grocery stores and online, often sold in powder or bar form.

Conclusion

This Coconut Pandan Jelly Dessert offers a light, elegant, and soothing finish to any meal. Inspired by the refined coconut confections of modern dessert cafes, it delivers tropical comfort with every bite. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, this vegan jelly is a delightful addition to your dessert repertoire — a true taste of Southeast Asian sweetness, chilled to perfection.