Description
This coconut jelly recipe is a refreshing and plant-based take on a yezi coconut dessert copycat. Inspired by Asian coconut cafes, this vegan coconut dessert blends coconut water, coconut milk, and fragrant pandan to create a silky-smooth treat. These coconut milk puddings are naturally gluten-free and made with agar-agar for a light, bouncy texture. Chill, top with tropical fruit, and enjoy this Asian coconut agar dessert on a sunny day.
Ingredients
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2 cups young coconut water (unsweetened)
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1 cup canned coconut milk (stirred well)
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1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
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1 tsp pandan extract or 2 pandan leaves, tied (optional)
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2 1/2 tsp agar-agar powder (vegan gelatin alternative)
Toppings (optional):
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Diced mango
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Kiwi
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Young coconut flesh strips
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Coconut cream (for drizzling)
Instructions
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Mix Liquids: In a saucepan (off the heat), combine coconut water and coconut milk. Add pandan leaves if using. Sprinkle agar-agar powder over the mixture and let it sit for 5 minutes to hydrate.
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Dissolve and Sweeten: Place saucepan over medium heat. Add sugar. Stir continuously and bring the mixture to a gentle boil for 1–2 minutes to fully activate the agar. Stir constantly.
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Add Pandan Extract (if using): If using pandan extract instead of leaves, stir it in after removing the pot from the heat.
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Strain and Pour: Remove pandan leaves if used. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve. Pour into 4 small ramekins or dessert cups.
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Set the Jelly: Let sit at room temp for 15–20 minutes. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set and opaque white.
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Serve Cold: Serve in cups or unmolded onto plates. Garnish with diced fruit or a swirl of coconut cream.
Notes
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Agar sets firm and doesn’t melt at room temperature, making this dessert great for outdoor events.
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Adjust sweetness to your preference — Yezi-style desserts are subtly sweet.
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This recipe is vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop / Chilled
- Cuisine: Asian / Southeast Asian