If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a tropical vacation in every spoonful, this Brazilian Coconut Pudding Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Creamy, rich, and bursting with luscious coconut flavor, it’s a simple yet indulgent treat that brings warmth and sweetness together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this pudding captures the heart of Brazilian comfort food with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Brazilian Coconut Pudding Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, creamy texture, and that signature coconut charm. These staples work beautifully together to create a dessert that’s both comforting and elegant.
- Butter (or coconut oil): Adds richness and helps meld the coconut flavors together smoothly.
- Sweetened condensed milk (14 oz can): Provides natural sweetness and a silky, thick texture that’s key to the pudding’s creamy base.
- Unsweetened shredded or flaked coconut (3 cups): Gives the pudding its wonderful texture and authentic coconut taste without overwhelming sweetness.
- Coconut milk (1 cup): Intensifies the coconut flavor while keeping the pudding moist and luscious.
- Heavy cream (or coconut cream, 1/2 cup): Adds extra creaminess and smoothness, rounding out the dessert with a velvety finish.
How to Make Brazilian Coconut Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Combine and Cook the Base
Start by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, and coconut milk, stirring constantly. This slow cooking process, about 10 to 15 minutes, is where the pudding thickens and the flavors meld beautifully. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture starts pulling away from the sides of the pan.
Step 2: Add Cream for Smoothness
Next, stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream. This step is essential for adding that irresistible silky texture and extra richness. Mix until perfectly smooth, then remove your saucepan from the heat to let the pudding cool down slightly.
Step 3: Let It Thicken
Allow the pudding to rest at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes, giving it time to thicken even more. This pause lets all the gorgeous flavors and textures settle into that perfect pudding consistency.
Step 4: Portion Into Serving Dishes
Now, spoon the pudding into individual glasses or dessert cups. This presentation invites everyone to enjoy their own luscious serving and makes it feel extra special at the table.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Brazilian Coconut Pudding Recipe at room temperature or chilled—both are wonderful options. It’s ready to be devoured as is or dressed up with your favorite garnishes to add flair and contrasting flavors.
How to Serve Brazilian Coconut Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
To take the pudding’s tropical vibe even further, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for a delightful crunch. A dusting of fresh lime zest can add an invigorating citrusy punch, while fresh berries bring a pop of color and natural tartness that cuts through the richness.
Side Dishes
This pudding pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or a refreshing herbal tea. For a more festive occasion, serve alongside tropical fruit salad or even a light, tangy sorbet to balance the creamy sweetness of the pudding.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the pudding with crushed cookies or caramelized nuts for added texture and flavor. Serving it in clear glasses lets the beautiful layers shine, while mini mason jars give a charming rustic touch perfect for gatherings. You can also experiment with drizzling passion fruit syrup on top for an exciting tropical twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Brazilian Coconut Pudding Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pudding may firm up as it cools, so give it a gentle stir before serving to bring back that luscious texture.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s not ideal for this pudding because its creamy texture may change once thawed. If you do freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and consume within one month for the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
If you prefer to enjoy the pudding warm, gently reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid scorching. For a chilled treat, simply take it out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Can I use unsweetened condensed milk instead of sweetened?
For this Brazilian Coconut Pudding Recipe, sweetened condensed milk is important because it adds both sweetness and thickness. Using unsweetened condensed milk would require additional sugar and may affect the pudding’s texture.
Is there a dairy-free version?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with coconut oil and swap heavy cream for coconut cream to keep the pudding fully dairy-free while preserving its rich coconut flavor and creamy texture.
How long does the pudding last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, the pudding stays fresh for up to 3 days. After that, its texture and flavor may begin to decline.
Can I make this pudding in larger batches?
You can easily double or triple the ingredients if you’re serving a crowd. Just be sure to use a larger saucepan and extend the cooking time slightly to achieve the right thickness.
What’s the best way to get toasted coconut for garnish?
Simply spread shredded coconut on a baking sheet and toast it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden and fragrant. Keep a close eye as it can burn quickly!
Final Thoughts
I really hope you give this Brazilian Coconut Pudding Recipe a try—it’s one of those desserts that feels like a hug from the inside out. The combination of creamy coconut, subtle sweetness, and that cozy texture is something you’ll want to make again and again. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo, this pudding is a delicious invitation to experience a little slice of Brazil’s sweet treasures right in your own kitchen.
Print
Brazilian Coconut Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Brazilian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Brazilian Coconut Pudding is a creamy, rich dessert made with shredded coconut, coconut milk, and sweetened condensed milk. Cooked gently on the stovetop until thick and luscious, it’s a perfect treat that can be served chilled or at room temperature. The pudding’s texture is creamy with a subtle coconut flavor, making it a delightful and unique dessert.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter (or coconut oil)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 3 cups unsweetened shredded or flaked coconut
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream)
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, and coconut milk. This mixture forms the base of the pudding and will be cooked to develop the creamy texture.
- Cook mixture: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly for 10–15 minutes. Continue until the pudding thickens significantly and starts pulling away from the sides of the pan, indicating it is ready.
- Add cream: Stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow it to cool slightly to thicken further.
- Cool pudding: Let the pudding stand at room temperature for 10–15 minutes. This rest period helps it set and develop a creamier consistency.
- Serve: Pour the pudding into individual serving glasses or dessert cups. You can serve it at room temperature or chill before serving. Optionally, garnish with toasted coconut, lime zest, or fresh berries for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use coconut oil as a dairy-free alternative to butter for a vegan version.
- For a dairy-free pudding, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream.
- To add texture and flavor, garnish with toasted shredded coconut or fresh berries.
- The pudding thickens as it cools; do not overcook or it may become too firm.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days.
