Easy Buko Pandan Recipe
I. Introduction
A refreshing Filipino dessert combining young coconut (buko), pandan-flavored jelly, and sweetened cream. This Easy Buko Pandan Recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and refreshing flavors that’s ideal for hot weather.
II. Ingredients
- 1 young coconut (buko), meat scraped out and cut into strips
- 2 cups coconut water from the buko
- 1 (3 oz) package pandan-flavored jelly powder (or plain agar jelly with pandan extract)
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 pandan leaves (screwpine), knotted (optional)
- Ice cubes (for serving)
III. Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Large serving glasses or bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cleaver for opening coconut
- Spoon for scraping coconut meat
IV. Instructions
- Open the young coconut and reserve the coconut water.
- Scrape out the soft coconut meat and cut into strips or bite-sized pieces.
- In a saucepan, combine pandan jelly powder with 2 cups of coconut water and pandan leaves if using.
- Bring to a boil while stirring constantly to dissolve the powder.
- Pour the mixture into individual serving glasses or molds and let set for at least 2 hours.
- In a separate bowl, mix condensed milk, evaporated milk, and sugar to create the cream mixture.
- Once the pandan jelly is set, add strips of coconut meat on top.
- Pour the sweetened cream mixture over the jelly and coconut.
- Serve with ice cubes or chill before serving.
V. Tips
Use fresh young coconut when possible; real pandan leaves enhance the flavor. If you can’t find pandan-flavored jelly, you can use plain agar flakes mixed with pandan extract. Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less condensed milk. The dessert tastes best when well-chilled. You can also add small pieces of nata de coco for additional texture.
VI. Serving
Serve chilled as a refreshing dessert on hot days. This colorful dessert is visually appealing with its green pandan jelly contrasting with the white coconut meat. It’s especially popular during summer months and is a favorite among both children and adults.
VII. Storage
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The jelly may release some liquid over time, which is normal. Stir gently before serving if the cream mixture separates. The coconut meat will keep its texture well during storage, making this dessert perfect for preparing ahead of time.
