If you’re searching for a delicious, healthy, and completely vegan dessert, look no further than this agar agar vegan pudding recipe. Agar agar, a natural gelling agent derived from seaweed, is an excellent plant-based alternative to gelatin.
It sets quickly, has no flavor of its own, and is packed with fiber, making it perfect for anyone following a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle. This pudding is creamy, smooth, and versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite plant milks and sweeteners.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply want to try a new dessert that feels indulgent yet guilt-free, this pudding will quickly become one of your favorites.
Unlike traditional puddings that rely on dairy and eggs, this recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients to create a luscious texture and subtle sweetness. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and requires minimal equipment, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a fuss-free treat.
Keep reading to discover why this agar agar pudding is a must-try and how you can make it your own with simple tips and variations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This agar agar vegan pudding recipe stands out because of its ease, versatility, and health benefits. First off, agar agar sets faster than gelatin, meaning you can enjoy your pudding in a shorter time without waiting hours in the fridge.
It’s also completely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans, vegetarians, and those with dietary restrictions like lactose intolerance.
The pudding’s texture is silky and satisfying, with a firm yet creamy consistency that feels luxurious on the palate. You can easily customize the flavor by choosing different plant milks such as almond, oat, or coconut, and adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Plus, agar agar is rich in fiber and minerals, adding a nutritional boost to your dessert.
Lastly, this pudding is perfect for meal prepping or serving at gatherings since it holds up well in the fridge for several days. Once you try it, you’ll find it hard to go back to traditional gelatin puddings!
Ingredients
- 2 cups plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat, or coconut)
- 1 teaspoon agar agar powder
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup or agave nectar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup cocoa powder for chocolate flavor or 1 tablespoon lemon juice for a citrus twist
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Pudding molds or small serving bowls
- Refrigerator
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Measure out the plant-based milk, agar agar powder, sweetener, and vanilla extract. If using cocoa powder or lemon juice, have them ready as well.
- Combine agar agar and milk: Pour the plant milk into a medium saucepan. Sprinkle the agar agar powder evenly over the milk surface to avoid clumps. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes to start softening.
- Heat the mixture: Place the saucepan on medium heat and whisk continuously. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial as agar agar needs to be fully dissolved to set properly.
- Add sweetener and flavor: Stir in the maple syrup (or agave) and vanilla extract. If you’re making chocolate pudding, add cocoa powder now and whisk thoroughly to avoid lumps.
- Remove from heat: Take the saucepan off the heat once everything is well combined and smooth.
- Pour into molds: Carefully pour the pudding mixture into pudding molds or small serving bowls. Let them cool slightly at room temperature before transferring to the refrigerator.
- Chill and set: Refrigerate the pudding for at least 1 hour or until fully set. The pudding will firm up with a smooth, jelly-like but creamy texture.
- Serve and enjoy: Once set, enjoy your pudding as is or add your favorite toppings.
Tips & Variations
Pro tip: Always bring the agar agar mixture to a full boil and simmer for a couple of minutes. Agar agar won’t set properly if it isn’t fully dissolved.
Feel free to experiment with different plant milks. Coconut milk creates a richer pudding, while almond or oat milk offers a lighter texture.
You can also mix in natural flavorings such as cinnamon, cardamom, or matcha powder for a unique twist.
For a fruitier pudding, swirl in pureed berries or mango before chilling. Alternatively, layer the pudding with fresh fruit or crushed nuts for added texture.
If you prefer a softer pudding, reduce the agar agar to 3/4 teaspoon, but note that it may take longer to set.
Looking for other vegan dessert ideas? Check out our Blackberry Juicing Recipes or try a refreshing Blue Spirulina Smoothie Recipe for a healthy treat.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving (1/2 cup) |
---|---|
Calories | 120 |
Fat | 3g (varies by plant milk) |
Carbohydrates | 22g |
Fiber | 1.5g |
Sugar | 15g (from sweetener) |
Protein | 1g |
Sodium | 40mg |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan pudding is delightful served chilled on its own or garnished with fresh fruit such as berries, kiwi slices, or mango chunks. A drizzle of coconut cream or vegan whipped topping adds an extra layer of indulgence.
For a crunchy contrast, sprinkle toasted nuts, granola, or cacao nibs on top. You can also pair the pudding with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a comforting dessert experience.
If you want to get creative, layer the pudding with fruit compote or jam in a parfait glass for a visually stunning treat. This dish also makes an excellent option for potlucks or vegan dinner parties.
Conclusion
This agar agar vegan pudding recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a creamy, satisfying dessert without any animal products. Its simplicity, health benefits, and versatile flavor options make it a recipe worth keeping in your culinary repertoire.
Whether you’re new to agar agar or a seasoned vegan cook, this pudding delivers on taste and texture every time.
Not only does it come together quickly with minimal fuss, but it also provides a nutritious alternative to traditional gelatin-based desserts. Plus, you can personalize it endlessly to suit your preferences or seasonal ingredients.
Be sure to bookmark this recipe for your next sweet craving and explore other delicious plant-based recipes like our Breakfast Wellington Recipe or the comforting Bread And Gravy Recipe. Happy cooking and enjoy your delightful vegan pudding!
📖 Recipe Card: Agar Agar Vegan Pudding
Description: A light and refreshing vegan pudding made with agar agar for a perfect jelly-like texture. Naturally plant-based and easy to prepare.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT20M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond milk
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon agar agar powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh fruit or berries for topping (optional)
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine almond milk, coconut milk, and agar agar powder.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes until agar agar is fully dissolved.
- Remove from heat and stir in maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Pour mixture into serving dishes and let cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until set.
- Top with fresh fruit before serving if desired.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 20 g
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