
Easy Pandan Coconut Jelly (Vegan & Dairy-Free)
Dolce Flav
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Pandan
Author:
Dolce Flav
Servings
6
Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
This Easy Pandan Coconut Jelly is a refreshing, vegan-friendly dessert that combines the aromatic flavor of pandan with the creamy richness of coconut. Made with just five simple ingredients—pandan extract, agar-agar powder, sugar, water, and coconut milk—it's a visually appealing treat that's both dairy-free and gluten-free. The jelly layers are naturally sweetened and set to a firm yet delicate texture, making it a perfect end to any meal.
Ingredients
For the Pandan Layer:
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1 tablespoon pandan extract (store-bought or homemade)
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1 cup cold water
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1½ teaspoons agar-agar powder
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¼ cup white granulated sugar (or coconut palm sugar for a deeper flavor)
For the Coconut Layer:
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1 cup coconut milk
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½ cup cold water
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1½ teaspoons agar-agar powder
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¼ cup white granulated sugar
Directions
Prepare the Pandan Layer:
In a saucepan, combine 1 cup cold water and 1½ teaspoons agar-agar powder. Stir well and bring to a boil over medium heat.
Once boiling, add ¼ cup sugar and stir until dissolved.
Remove from heat and mix in 1 tablespoon pandan extract.
Pour the mixture into a mold or individual serving cups, filling them halfway.
Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Prepare the Coconut Layer:
In a separate saucepan, combine ½ cup cold water and 1½ teaspoons agar-agar powder. Stir well and bring to a boil over medium heat.
Once boiling, add ¼ cup sugar and stir until dissolved.
Remove from heat and mix in 1 cup coconut milk.
Carefully pour the coconut mixture over the set pandan layer in the molds.
Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set completely.
Serve:
Once fully set, gently unmold the jelly and serve chilled.
Recipe Note
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use agar-agar flakes instead of powder?
Yes, but you'll need to adjust the quantity. Typically, 1 teaspoon of agar-agar powder is equivalent to about 2 teaspoons of agar-agar flakes.
Is pandan extract available in the Philippines?
Yes, pandan extract is widely available in Filipino supermarkets and online stores.
Can I substitute coconut milk with another type of milk?
For a vegan option, coconut milk is ideal. However, if you're not vegan, you can substitute with regular milk or a milk alternative of your choice.
How long can I store the jelly?
The jelly can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I add other fruits to the jelly?
Yes, small diced fruits like mango or lychee can be added to the jelly mixture before setting for added flavor and texture.
Is this dessert suitable for children?
Absolutely! It's a fun and colorful treat that's safe for children to enjoy.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, this dessert is perfect for preparing in advance. Just ensure it's stored properly in the refrigerator.
What other desserts can I make with pandan extract?
Pandan extract can be used in various desserts like pandan chiffon cake, pandan ice cream, and pandan-flavored rice.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.
What Does Pandan Taste Like? How to Cook with It
Pandan has a unique, sweet, and slightly nutty flavor with floral and grassy notes, often described as a blend of vanilla, coconut, and jasmine. To cook with pandan, you can use fresh pandan leaves to infuse liquids like coconut milk or rice, or use pandan extract to flavor cakes, desserts, and beverages for a fragrant and tropical taste.