There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about Almond Jelly that brings back memories of summer feasts and family gatherings. As the sun blazes and temperatures rise, this creamy, softly set Asian dessert becomes a staple in my kitchen. This delightful treat is not just easy to whip up—requiring only a handful of ingredients—but it also offers vibrant versatility.
Imagine a refreshing end to your meal, perfectly chilled and adorned with sweet fruit cocktail or aromatic lychees. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a summer party or simply indulge in a sweet yet light dessert after dinner, Almond Jelly has you covered. Plus, it’s dairy-free and easily customizable, allowing you to explore flavors that suit your palate. Join me as we dive into the art of making Creamy Coconut Almond Jelly, a dish that brings a taste of Asia to your home and keeps your cravings for fast food at bay!
Why is Almond Jelly a Must-Try Dessert?
Simplicity at your fingertips: This recipe is incredibly easy, needing just a few basic ingredients and minimal cooking time!
Versatile delight: Customize your Almond Jelly with various fruits or unique toppings like azuki beans for an exciting twist.
Refreshing finish: Perfectly chilled, it’s the ideal light dessert for hot summer days, providing a satisfying end to any meal.
Dairy-Free options: Accommodate dietary preferences seamlessly by swapping in oat or almond milk for a deliciously creamy texture.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating your family, this dessert is sure to impress both adults and kids alike.
Ready to impress your friends with this delightful recipe? Don’t forget to explore the various variation ideas for an even more exciting dessert experience!
Almond Jelly Ingredients
For the Base
• Almond Agar Mix – Essential for setting the jelly, giving it that perfect wobbly texture.
• Coconut Milk – Adds a creamy richness; substitute with oat milk for a delightful dairy-free option.
• Milk – Enhances overall flavor; can be swapped with almond or soy milk for a completely dairy-free dessert.
• Almond Milk – Boosts the almond flavor profile; if you’re out, just use more coconut milk.
• Water – Needed to dissolve the agar; crucial for achieving the right consistency in your almond jelly.
For the Toppings
• Fruit Cocktail – Introduces sweetness and varied textures; fresh fruits like lychees and strawberries work wonderfully.
• Azuki Beans – An optional mix-in that adds unique texture and nutritional benefits, enhancing your almond jelly.
• Lychees – These sweet and aromatic fruits make an exquisite garnish; you can use them fresh or canned, as per your preference.
This Almond Jelly recipe is not only easy to make but also allows you to experiment with delightful combinations, creating a dish everyone will love!
How to Make Almond Jelly
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Prepare the Base: In a saucepan, mix the almond agar mix with 4 1/4 cups of liquid, including water, coconut milk, milk, and almond milk. This combination sets the stage for your creamy dessert.
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Heat: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat while stirring continuously. You want the agar dissolved completely—watch for that bubbly texture, which takes about 5-8 minutes.
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Cool Down: Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool at room temperature for around 10 minutes. This step allows flavors to meld beautifully before chilling.
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Set: Pour the mixture into a container and refrigerate until set, which usually takes about 2-3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when it feels firm yet wobbly, just like traditional jellies!
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Serve: Once the jelly has set, cut it into delightful cubes. Serve it plain or dress it up with fruit cocktail, lychees, or even azuki beans for a touch of flair and sweetness.
Optional: Drizzle with condensed milk for a nutty sweetness or sprinkle toasted coconut for extra crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Almond Jelly Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delightful twists!
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Dairy-Free: Swap coconut milk, almond milk, and regular milk with oat milk to maintain creamy goodness without any dairy.
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Choco-Delight: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the base mixture for a rich chocolate twist that kids and adults alike will adore.
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Fruit Fusion: Mix in pureed fruits, like mango or strawberries, to the base, giving your almond jelly a colorful and fruity flavor profile.
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Herbal Infusion: Infuse the boiling mixture with a few sprigs of fresh mint or basil, adding an aromatic freshness that elevates the traditional taste.
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Layered Surprise: Before the jelly fully sets, pour in a thin layer of flavored jelly (like lychee or passion fruit) for a delightful surprise when served.
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Nutty Boost: Toss in a handful of chopped nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, just before pouring into the mold for an exciting texture contrast and added crunch.
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Sweet Heat: For the adventurous palate, add a touch of chili powder or a few slices of jalapeño to the mixture for a surprising kick that complements the sweetness.
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Savory Sensation: Try adding a dash of soy sauce and sesame oil for a unique savory take on your almond jelly, making it an interesting appetizer!
How to Store and Freeze Almond Jelly
Fridge: Keep the almond jelly in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain its fresh and creamy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the jelly in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: Almond jelly doesn’t require reheating, but if you prefer it softer, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes after thawing.
Serving: Garnish with fresh fruits or your favorite toppings right before serving to enhance the presentation and flavor of your almond jelly.
Tips for the Best Almond Jelly
- Dissolve Completely: Ensure the agar mix is fully dissolved by stirring continuously while heating. This prevents lumps from forming in your almond jelly.
- Cool Before Refrigerating: Let the mixture cool for about 10 minutes to help it set evenly in the fridge and maintain that delightful texture.
- Mix-ins Timing: If you’re adding azuki beans or other mix-ins, do so right before pouring the mixture into the container to incorporate them smoothly.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try layering flavors by adding a second layer of different jelly (like black sesame) before the first layer sets, enhancing your almond jelly.
- Fresh Fruits: For toppings, opt for fresh fruits like lychees, mango, or strawberries for a vibrant touch that complements the almond flavor nicely.
Enjoy! Your homemade Almond Jelly will be the star of all your gatherings!
What to Serve with Almond Jelly?
End your meal on a refreshing note with this delightful treat, perfect for summer gatherings or cozy family dinners.
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Fresh Mango Slices: Sweet and juicy mango adds a burst of color and flavor, enhancing the almond jelly’s subtle taste.
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Toasted Coconut Flakes: A sprinkle of these crunchy flakes gives texture and a tropical flair, making each bite a delightful adventure.
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Lychee Drink: This fruity beverage complements the jelly beautifully, echoing the soft floral notes while keeping you refreshed.
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Sweetened Condensed Milk: A drizzle of this rich, creamy milk adds a lovely sweetness, balancing the almond flavor perfectly.
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Chilled Green Tea: Light and refreshing, a cup of green tea cleanses the palate while introducing a soothing depth to your dessert experience.
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Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits brightens the dish, providing contrasting textures and a variety of sweet notes that harmonize with almond jelly.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For an unexpected twist, a light drizzle of chocolate sauce adds a rich flavor contrast, making your dessert a decadent treat.
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Azuki Bean Paste: Pairing the jelly with a spoonful of this sweet bean paste adds a unique texture and flavor, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
Make Ahead Options
Almond Jelly is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this refreshing dessert without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the base mixture and refrigerate it up to 24 hours ahead of time, letting the flavors infuse beautifully. Simply follow the recipe instructions until the mixture is ready to set, then cover it with plastic wrap to avoid any unwanted odors in the fridge. After it has set, the jelly can be enjoyed for up to 5 days, maintaining its creamy texture if stored in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, just cut it into cubes and top it with your favorite fruit cocktail or garnishes for a delightful treat that feels effortlessly gourmet!
Almond Jelly Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right almond agar mix?
Choosing a high-quality almond agar mix is essential for achieving the perfect texture in your almond jelly. Look for products that specify a clear set of instructions and use agar flakes or powder that have a good reputation. You want it to dissolve easily without clumping, so stick to trusted brands if you’re unsure.
What is the best way to store leftover almond jelly?
Absolutely! Store your almond jelly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To keep it fresh and preserve its texture, make sure it’s well-sealed. If you find yourself with leftovers, you can also layer it with fresh fruits in the container for added flavor as it sits!
Can I freeze almond jelly?
Yes, you can! To freeze almond jelly, cut it into cubes and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about 1-2 hours until firm, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. It will last up to 1 month in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, and it’s good to go!
What should I do if my almond jelly doesn’t set properly?
No worries, it happens sometimes! If your almond jelly doesn’t set, it could be due to inadequate heating or if the agar was not fully dissolved. Here’s what to do: reheat the jelly mixture gently on the stove, stirring continuously, until it comes to a boil. Make sure to allow it to cool slightly, then re-pour it into your container and refrigerate again. This should help it set properly.
Is almond jelly safe for everyone to eat?
Very much so! Almond jelly is generally safe for most people, but if you have nut allergies, you should avoid almond milk and the almond agar mix. For those with lactose intolerance, stick to plant-based milk options like coconut or almond milk. Always check ingredient labels if you’re catering to specific dietary needs—better safe than sorry!
What other toppings can I use with almond jelly?
The more, the merrier! You can get creative with toppings by trying fresh fruits like mango, kiwi, or berries for a fruity explosion. A sprinkle of toasted coconut adds crunch, while a drizzle of condensed milk enhances sweetness. Feel free to explore flavors like matcha or black sesame jelly for a delightful twist on this classic almond jelly!
Delicious Almond Jelly: Easy Asian Dessert You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, mix the almond agar mix with 4 1/4 cups of liquid, including water, coconut milk, milk, and almond milk.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat while stirring continuously for about 5-8 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool at room temperature for around 10 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a container and refrigerate until set, about 2-3 hours.
- Once set, cut the jelly into cubes and serve with fruit cocktail, lychees, or azuki beans.