Coconut Cream Pudding: 5 Heavenly Reasons to Love This Silky Dessert

Coconut Cream Pudding is the kind of dessert that never goes out of style. Creamy, smooth, lightly sweetened, and filled with the tropical essence of coconut, this pudding is an instant hit whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it quietly after a long day. With its elegant texture and toasted coconut topping, it brings a restaurant-style finish right to your kitchen — no complicated steps required.

This recipe is ideal for coconut lovers, fans of old-fashioned puddings, and those looking for a light, satisfying dessert that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make. Plus, it’s perfect for make-ahead entertaining and can easily be adapted to suit a variety of diets.

If you’ve been searching for a coconut dessert that’s as simple as it is delicious, this Coconut Cream Pudding is your answer.

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Why Coconut Cream Pudding Is the Perfect Everyday Dessert

Coconut desserts are known for their comforting texture and tropical flavor. What makes Coconut Cream Pudding stand out is its versatility — it can be dressed up with fruit or served simply on its own. It’s a naturally gluten-free option, and with just a few smart swaps, it can also be made lighter for those following Weight Watcher-style or calorie-conscious plans.

This dessert also keeps well in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead option. Whether you’re prepping for guests or simply want something sweet ready after dinner, you’ll find this pudding is always welcome at the table.

Want more simple dessert ideas? Check out our banana chia pudding for a naturally sweet treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Coconut Cream Pudding

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this rich and creamy pudding:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
• 1/4 cup cornstarch (30g)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups whole milk (480ml)
• 1 cup canned coconut milk (240ml)
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for extra richness)
• 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut, toasted (for garnish)
• Whipped cream (optional for topping)

Tip: Use full-fat coconut milk for the best creamy texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Coconut Cream Pudding

Making Coconut Cream Pudding is simple when you follow these steps:

1. Combine dry ingredients
   In a medium saucepan (off the heat), whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt until evenly blended.
2. Add milk and egg yolks
   Gradually whisk in the milk and coconut milk until smooth. Then whisk in the egg yolks.
3. Cook the pudding
   Place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and bubbles — about 8–10 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.
4. Finish the pudding
   Remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla and butter (if using). Continue stirring until butter is fully melted and pudding is silky.
5. Chill the pudding
   Pour the pudding into individual serving glasses or a large bowl. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing directly onto the surface to prevent skin. Refrigerate at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled.
6. Top and serve
   Just before serving, top with toasted coconut and whipped cream if desired.

For another classic option, try our vanilla bean pudding — it’s equally rich and comforting.

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Kitchen Tools You’ll Need to Prepare This Pudding Recipe

You don’t need fancy tools to make this:

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Heat-safe bowl (for tempering eggs if needed)
• Plastic wrap
• Serving cups or dessert jars
• Spatula (optional for stirring)

These are all common tools that make preparation smooth and cleanup easy.

Pro Tips for Achieving the Creamiest Coconut Pudding

• Whisk constantly: This prevents lumps and keeps the texture smooth.
• Don’t boil too long: Once thickened and bubbling, it’s done — overcooking can curdle the mixture.
• Strain if needed: For ultra-smooth pudding, strain through a fine sieve before chilling.
• Toast the coconut: This adds depth and texture to your final dish.
• Use both milk and coconut milk: It balances the richness without overwhelming with coconut flavor.

Looking for another creamy dessert? Check out our light cheesecake parfaits.

Serving Suggestions for Coconut Cream Pudding

There are plenty of ways to serve Coconut Cream Pudding, from elegant to cozy:

• Layer with fruit like mango, banana, or pineapple
• Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of honey
• Serve in mini jars for portion-controlled desserts
• Sprinkle chocolate shavings for a tropical chocolate twist
• Use as filling for trifles, parfaits, or tart shells

This pudding pairs beautifully with this vanilla almond granola for a crunchy topping.

How to Store and Chill Leftover Coconut Pudding

Storing your pudding properly keeps it fresh and creamy:

• Refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 4 days
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap directly on the surface to avoid a skin
• Do not freeze — the texture will break and become grainy

Tip: Chill in single-serve containers to make grab-and-go dessert cups throughout the week.

Delicious Variations: From Banana Cake to Cheesecake Swirls

Make this recipe your own with these creative twists:

• Swirl in cream cheese or mascarpone for a cheesecake vibe
• Layer with crushed graham crackers for a pudding pie feel
• Mix in mashed banana for a banana cream version
• Add a touch of cinnamon or cardamom for warmth
• Use coconut extract for an extra boost of flavor

Like coconut in baked goods? Try our moist coconut loaf cake — it’s a tropical must-bake.

Healthier Options: Light Coconut Cream Pudding Ideas

If you’re watching your macros or calories, this recipe can be adjusted easily:

• Use light coconut milk and low-fat dairy
• Reduce sugar or substitute with stevia or monk fruit
• Skip the butter without sacrificing much richness
• Top with plain yogurt instead of whipped cream
• Portion into small ramekins for controlled servings

This is perfect for those following Weight Watcher-friendly dessert plans.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Homemade Pudding

Avoid these common errors for perfect results every time:

• Skipping the whisk: Leads to clumpy pudding
• Boiling too long: Can cause curdling or separation
• Not chilling enough: It needs a full 2 hours to set
• Using only coconut milk: It can be too rich without balance
• Forgetting the plastic wrap: Creates an unappetizing skin

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Frequently Asked Questions About Coconut Cream Pudding

Can I use coconut cream instead of coconut milk?
Yes, but it will be richer and thicker. You may want to thin it slightly with milk.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely — use all coconut milk and a plant-based butter substitute or skip the butter entirely.

Can I use egg substitutes?
Yes, cornstarch alone can thicken the pudding if eggs are omitted, though texture may vary slightly.

Is this pudding gluten-free?
Yes, as written, it’s naturally gluten-free. Always double-check labels for cross-contamination.

Can I make this ahead?
Yes! It’s best when chilled for a few hours or overnight, making it ideal for make-ahead desserts.

Final Thoughts: A Crowd-Pleasing Coconut Dessert You’ll Keep Coming Back To

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s creamy, tropical, and easy to prepare, Coconut Cream Pudding is it. Whether served in elegant glass jars or scooped into bowls for a casual treat, it delivers big on flavor and texture with minimal effort. It’s a family-friendly favorite that’s just as welcome at a summer gathering as it is on a quiet weekday night.

For more crowd-pleasing desserts, check out our full Coconut Dessert Collection and Pudding Recipes. Don’t forget to share this recipe and subscribe to the blog for weekly sweets that wow.

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