If you are a fan of creamy, tropical desserts that melt in your mouth with every bite, you are going to adore this Brazilian Coconut Pudding Recipe. Known as Pudim de Coco in Brazil, this luscious pudding combines the richness of sweetened condensed milk with the fresh tropical flavor of coconut milk and shredded coconut. It delivers a perfectly balanced sweetness with a smooth, custard-like texture that feels like a gentle hug from the tropics. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or indulge in a comforting dessert, this recipe brings a simple yet elegant Brazilian classic right into your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Brazilian Coconut Pudding Recipe comes together with a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing an essential role in creating its creamy texture, tropical flavor, and beautiful appearance. With pantry staples and fresh coconut elements, you’ll be surprised how easy it is to gather everything and whip up this delightful dessert.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness and a rich, velvety base for the pudding.
- Full-fat coconut milk: Contributes the signature coconut flavor and luxurious creaminess.
- Whole milk: Balances the richness and lightens the custard slightly.
- Unsweetened shredded coconut: Provides texture and an authentic coconut bite inside the pudding.
- Large eggs: Essential for setting the pudding to the perfect custard-like consistency.
- Cornstarch: Acts as a gentle thickening agent, ensuring a smooth and firm pudding.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and a subtle aromatic depth.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors beautifully.
- Toasted coconut flakes (optional): A crunchy, decorative topping that intensifies the coconut experience.
How to Make Brazilian Coconut Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Blend the Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Pour the sweetened condensed milk, full-fat coconut milk, and whole milk into a blender. Add the shredded coconut, eggs, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend everything on high speed until the mixture is wonderfully smooth and uniform. This step ensures your pudding base is silky and well combined, setting you up for the perfect texture.
Step 2: Set Up for Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease an 8-inch round baking dish or individual ramekins to prevent sticking. Pour the blended pudding mixture into your prepared dish. To achieve the classic custard consistency, place the baking dish inside a larger roasting pan and carefully pour hot water in the pan until it comes halfway up the sides of the baking dish. This water bath method allows for gentle, even cooking that prevents cracking or curdling.
Step 3: Bake Until Set
Pop your water-bath setup into the oven and bake for about 45 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye on the pudding as it should be just set with a delicate golden hue on top. You can check by gently shaking the dish; it should have a slight jiggle but not be liquid. The baking process coagulates the eggs and thickens the pudding to that irresistible custard texture Brazil is famous for.
Step 4: Cool and Chill
Once baked, carefully remove your pudding from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least two hours, ideally longer, to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up perfectly. This chilling step enhances the richness and makes the dessert a luscious treat when served cold.
How to Serve Brazilian Coconut Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
Adding toasted coconut flakes on top not only amplifies the coconut flavor but introduces a crunchy contrast to the creamy pudding. For a pop of color and extra indulgence, fresh mango slices or a drizzle of passion fruit syrup pair beautifully as well. These simple touches lift the visual appeal and complexity of flavors.
Side Dishes
This pudding is delightful on its own, but if you want to create a fuller dessert experience, serve it alongside tropical fresh fruits like pineapple, papaya, or banana. A light, crisp mint leaf also refreshes the palate and complements the dense creaminess of the pudding wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve the pudding in individual ramekins or clear glass cups layered with fruit compote. You can also invert the pudding onto a plate for a smooth, flan-like presentation. Sprinkling finely chopped nuts or edible flowers adds elegance for special occasions. The versatility of this Brazilian Coconut Pudding Recipe means you can tailor the presentation to suit any mood or guest list.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Brazilian Coconut Pudding keeps well in the refrigerator covered tightly for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day or two, so feel free to make it ahead for convenience. Just make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it is not highly recommended because the custard texture might become grainy upon thawing. If you do decide to freeze, place the pudding in a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently stir to restore creaminess before serving.
Reheating
This pudding is best enjoyed cold, but if you prefer it warm, reheat gently in a microwave or double boiler just until cozy warm. Avoid overheating as it can cause the pudding to separate and lose its delicate texture.
FAQs
Can I use light coconut milk instead of full-fat?
While light coconut milk will reduce the fat content, it may also make the pudding less creamy and slightly affect the texture and richness. For the best authentic flavor and consistency, full-fat coconut milk is recommended.
Is this Brazilian Coconut Pudding Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this dessert uses cornstarch instead of wheat-based thickeners and contains no gluten ingredients, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Can I make this pudding vegan?
Unfortunately, no. This recipe relies on eggs and dairy for its custard texture and richness. However, you could explore vegan coconut puddings made with plant-based eggs and milk alternatives, but the flavor and texture will differ.
How do I know when the pudding is done baking?
The pudding is ready when it is set but still slightly jiggly in the center and has a light golden color on top. A gentle shake test or a toothpick inserted near the center should come out mostly clean without wet batter.
Can I add other flavors to this Brazilian Coconut Pudding Recipe?
Absolutely! While the classic coconut flavor shines here, adding a splash of rum, orange zest, or even a handful of chopped pineapple can add exciting tropical variations. Just be mindful not to alter the liquid ratios too much.
Final Thoughts
This Brazilian Coconut Pudding Recipe is a treasure that brings a slice of tropical Brazil right to your table. Its creamy texture, the harmony of milks, and delightful coconut notes make it a crowd-pleaser anytime you want to impress or simply treat yourself. Give this recipe a try—you might find it quickly becoming your new favorite dessert to revisit again and again!
Print
Brazilian Coconut Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Brazilian
- Diet: Gluten Free,Vegetarian
Description
Brazilian Coconut Pudding, or Pudim de Coco, is a creamy and lightly sweet tropical dessert made with a blend of sweetened condensed milk, coconut milk, shredded coconut, and eggs, baked to perfection in a water bath for a smooth, custard-like texture. It’s garnished with toasted coconut flakes to add a delightful crunch, making it a perfect treat for warm weather or any occasion.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (13.5 ounces) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Garnish
- Toasted coconut flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the pudding.
- Blend Ingredients: In a blender, combine the sweetened condensed milk, full-fat coconut milk, whole milk, shredded coconut, eggs, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease an 8-inch round baking dish or individual ramekins to prevent sticking, then pour the blended mixture into the prepared dish or ramekins.
- Set Up Water Bath: Place the baking dish inside a larger roasting pan. Carefully add hot water to the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the baking dish. This water bath will ensure even baking and a creamy texture.
- Bake Pudding: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is slightly golden. It should have a custard-like firmness when done.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the baking dish from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate the pudding for at least 2 hours to fully set and chill.
- Serve and Garnish: Before serving, optionally garnish the pudding with toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor. Slice and enjoy chilled.
Notes
- This pudding is known as “Pudim de Coco” in Brazil and offers a creamy, tropical coconut flavor.
- For a firmer texture, increase the cornstarch to 1 1/2 tablespoons.
- Serving chilled enhances the flavor and texture, making it more refreshing.
- Use full-fat coconut milk for the richest taste.
- Water bath baking prevents the pudding from cracking and ensures a smooth consistency.
