This Mango Caramel Pudding is an indulgent, tropical dessert that combines the vibrant, fruity flavour of mango with the classic depth of caramel. Originating from the tradition of mango-based sweets across Asia, this dessert brings together creamy, custard-like textures with the rich notes of caramelised sugar, making it ideal for summer celebrations. Whether you choose to steam, bake, or set it through refrigeration, the result is a luscious, silky pudding that highlights mangoes at their best.
The recipe’s addition of ginger juice is a unique twist, providing a gentle warmth that subtly balances the sweetness. Each component plays a specific role in making this dessert complex yet well-balanced. The sugar is caramelised for a glossy, golden base, which contrasts beautifully against the smooth mango custard once unmoulded, creating both a textural and flavourful interplay.

Baking or Steaming:
Baking: The pudding can be baked in an oven by placing the mould in a water bath to create a moist, gentle cooking environment.
- Water Bath Technique: Place the filled pudding moulds in a deep baking dish and add boiling water until it reaches halfway up the sides. This keeps the custard smooth and creamy by preventing the egg mixture from overcooking.
- Temperature Control: Bake at a low temperature (about 150°C or 300°F) for 30–40 minutes, until the pudding sets without curdling.
Steaming: A traditional and simple method, steaming helps achieve a delicate, melt-in-the-mouth consistency.
- Using a Double Boiler or Steamer: Place the pudding mould in a steamer or on a rack in a large pot with simmering water. Cover the moulds loosely with foil to prevent condensation from dripping onto the surface.
- Timing: Steam for approximately 20–25 minutes on low heat. Be cautious with the timing, as over-steaming can lead to a denser texture.
Steamed Mango Caramel Pudding
Ingredients
For the Pudding
- 1 cup Milk room temperature
- 1/2 cup Corn flour
- 1 cup Cream
- 3/4 cup Fresh mango puree sweetened
- 3/4 cup Condensed milk
- 1/4 tsp Ginger juice
- Pinch Salt
For the Caramel
- 1/3 cup Caster sugar
- 2 1/2 tbsp Water
Instructions
Prepare the Caramel:
- In a small pan, combine caster sugar and water.
- Heat on a very low flame, stirring occasionally, until the sugar melts and turns a golden brown.
- Pour the caramel into a greased cake tin and spread it evenly.
- Place the tin in the fridge to chill and set while you make your pudding.
Prepare the Pudding Mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix cornflour with 1/4 cup of milk to create a smooth slurry.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the remaining milk, cream, mango puree, condensed milk, ginger juice, salt, and cornflour slurry.
- Whisk the mixture until smooth and free of lumps.
- Strain the mixture through a sieve for a silky texture.
Assemble and Cook the Pudding:
- Pour the strained pudding mixture into the caramel-coated cake tin.
- Cover the tin with foil.
- To bake: Place the tin in a water bath and bake at 160°C for 30-40 minutes or until the pudding is firm.
- To steam: Place the tin in a double boiler and steam on low flame for 40-50 minutes until set.
Chill and Serve:
- Once cooked, allow the pudding to cool slightly before placing it in the fridge for at least 3-4 hours to set.
- Carefully run a knife around the edges, then invert the pudding onto a serving platter to release the caramel layer on top.