Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, dreamy, and utterly delightful desserts! Pandan, the fragrant and versatile herb native to Southeast Asia, has been a staple ingredient in many traditional desserts for centuries. With its unique nutty flavor and aromatic properties, pandan adds an extra layer of complexity and depth to any sweet treat.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 19 mouthwatering pandan dessert recipes that will satisfy your cravings and transport you to the heart of Asia’s rich food culture. From classic treats like pandan coconut milk jelly and pandan chiffon cake to modern twists like pandan mochi with shredded coconut and pandan ice cream with sticky rice, each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the magic of pandan in all its glory.
Pandan Coconut Milk Jelly
This refreshing dessert combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the subtle sweetness of pandan, perfect for hot summer days or as a unique addition to your dinner party menu.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons pandan extract
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, coconut milk, pandan extract, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the softened gelatin to the saucepan and stir until fully dissolved.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish or individual cups. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: None
Pandan Chiffon Cake
This moist and aromatic cake combines the unique flavor of pandan leaves with a light and airy texture, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons pandan extract
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) tube pan or Bundt pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form.
4. Add oil, pandan extract, and salt to the egg mixture. Whisk until combined.
5. Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pandan Kaya Jam Toast
A classic Malaysian breakfast treat that combines sweet and savory flavors. This simple recipe yields a deliciously aromatic toast with a velvety pandan kaya jam spread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread
– 1/2 cup pandan kaya jam (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread a layer of softened butter on each slice.
3. Spoon the pandan kaya jam over the butter, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pandan Mochi with Shredded Coconut
Experience the delightful combination of pandan’s nutty flavor and shredded coconut’s tropical taste in this simple yet impressive dessert. This recipe yields soft, chewy mochi wrapped in a fragrant pandan leaf and topped with toasted coconut flakes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups glutinous rice flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup pandan extract
– Vegetable oil for greasing
– Shredded coconut for topping
Instructions:
1. Combine glutinous rice flour, cornstarch, and sugar in a bowl.
2. Gradually add in water while kneading the mixture until it forms a sticky dough.
3. Add pandan extract and mix well.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each into a ball.
5. Flatten each ball into a disk shape and wrap with a piece of pandan leaf, securing with a toothpick if needed.
6. Toast shredded coconut in a dry pan until lightly browned.
7. Serve the mochi warm or at room temperature, topped with toasted coconut flakes.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Pandan Tapioca Pearl Pudding
This creamy pudding combines the subtle flavor of pandan with the comforting texture of tapioca pearls, making it a unique and delicious dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pandan extract
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup tapioca pearls
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine pandan extract, sugar, and salt. Heat over low heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Add tapioca pearls to the saucepan and stir to coat with pandan mixture.
3. Gradually add whole milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the pudding thickens.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let it cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pandan Custard-filled Cream Puffs
Elevate your pastry game with these creamy, dreamy cream puffs filled with the unique flavor of pandan custard. Perfect for a special occasion or just because.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon pandan extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
4. Place puffs on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool completely.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg yolks, and pandan extract. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 10 minutes).
7. Fill cooled puffs with the warm pandan custard. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pandan Leaf-infused Coconut Rice Pudding
This creamy dessert combines the subtle flavor of pandan leaves with the richness of coconut milk, creating a unique and exotic treat. Perfect for warm weather or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup pandan leaf extract (or 2-3 fresh pandan leaves)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Combine cooked rice, coconut milk, pandan leaf extract, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan.
2. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the flavors meld together (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to mature.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with toasted coconut flakes or a sprinkle of sugar if desired.
Pandan Ice Cream with Sticky Rice
This creamy and aromatic ice cream combines the distinct flavor of pandan leaves with the comforting warmth of sticky rice. Perfect for adventurous eaters, this unique dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup pandan extract (or 1-2 drops of pandan essential oil)
– 1 cup cooked sticky rice (glutinous or sweet rice)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in pandan extract (or essential oil). Let cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once churned, fold in cooked sticky rice.
6. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooling time)
Pandan Swiss Roll with Coconut Filling
Elevate your pastry game with this unique fusion of Asian and European flavors. This Pandan Swiss Roll with Coconut Filling is a sweet and aromatic treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pandan extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a Swiss roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add pandan extract and mix until combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold into the dry ingredients until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Allow cake to cool completely before spreading with sweetened condensed milk and topping with shredded coconut.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pandan Butter Cookies with Sesame Seeds
Pandan Butter Cookies with Sesame Seeds Recipe
These fragrant cookies combine the richness of pandan butter with the nutty flavor of sesame seeds, perfect for a unique snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup pandan butter (or substitute with vanilla extract)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter, pandan butter (or vanilla extract), sugar, and salt until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and then gradually add the flour mixture to form a dough.
5. Stir in sesame seeds.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pandan Pancakes with Palm Sugar Syrup
Inspired by the flavors of Southeast Asia, these pandan pancakes are infused with the sweet aroma and flavor of pandan leaves. Serve them warm with a drizzle of palm sugar syrup for a delightful breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
For the pancakes:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup pandan extract-infused milk (or regular milk with 1-2 teaspoons pandan extract)
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the palm sugar syrup:
– 1 cup palm sugar, dissolved in 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
1. Whisk together flour, cornstarch, sugar, and salt.
2. Add milk, egg, and vegetable oil; whisk until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface. Flip and cook for another minute.
5. Serve warm pancakes with palm sugar syrup drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including pancake cooking time)
Pandan Steamed Layer Cake (Kuih Serimuka)
This traditional Malaysian dessert is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, with the fragrance of pandan leaves. With its soft and fluffy texture, this steamed layer cake is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup pandan extract
– 1/2 cup whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer to high heat.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and pandan extract.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
5. Gradually pour in milk, mixing until smooth batter forms.
6. Divide batter into 8-10 portions and shape each portion into a small square.
7. Place squares in steamer lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each cake.
8. Steam for 12-15 minutes or until cakes are cooked through.
9. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pandan-flavored Sticky Rice Balls in Ginger Syrup
Experience the sweet and savory fusion of Southeast Asian flavors with these crispy rice balls infused with pandan essence, served in a fragrant ginger syrup. Perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked glutinous rice
– 1/4 cup palm sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon pandan extract
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Ginger Syrup (see below)
Ginger Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
Instructions:
1. Combine cooked glutinous rice, palm sugar, and pandan extract in a bowl.
2. Knead the mixture until a dough forms. Divide into small portions and shape into balls.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the rice balls until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
4. To make Ginger Syrup, combine water and sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes with sliced ginger.
5. Serve fried rice balls warm or at room temperature with the warm Ginger Syrup.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Pandan Egg Tart with Flaky Crust
Combine the richness of pandan and eggs with a buttery, flaky crust to create a unique and delicious dessert. This recipe is perfect for those looking to add an exotic twist to their baking repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup pandan extract or paste
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
2. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until coarse crumbs form.
3. Press dough into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Trim edges and prick base with a fork.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together pandan extract, eggs, and granulated sugar. Pour into prepared crust.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until filling is set and crust golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pandan Panna Cotta with Mango Compote
This Southeast Asian-inspired dessert combines the creamy richness of panna cotta with the sweet and tangy flavors of mango, all wrapped up in a fragrant pandan leaf package.
Ingredients:
For the Pandan Panna Cotta:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 1/4 cup pandan extract (or 2-3 leaves of pandan leaves)
– 1/2 tsp unflavored gelatin
For the Mango Compote:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 lime, juiced
Instructions:
1. Combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in pandan extract (or leaves) and gelatin. Let steep for 10-15 minutes.
3. Strain mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Prepare Mango Compote by combining mango, sugar, honey, and lime juice in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and fruit is tender.
5. Serve chilled pandan panna cotta with warm mango compote spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus refrigeration time)
Pandan Coconut Milk Agar-Agar
This recipe combines the rich flavors of pandan and coconut milk with the unique texture of agar-agar, creating a unique dessert that’s perfect for warm weather. This sweet treat is light, refreshing, and sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup pandan extract or 1/4 cup pandan leaves
– 1 tablespoon agar-agar powder
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine coconut milk and pandan extract (or pandan leaves). Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is warm and fragrant.
2. In a separate bowl, mix agar-agar powder with 1/4 cup water to create a paste.
3. Add the agar-agar paste to the coconut milk mixture and whisk until dissolved.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large mold. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe doesn’t require cooking.
Pandan Donuts with Grated Coconut Coating
Experience the exotic flavors of Southeast Asia with these tender Pandan Donuts coated in a crunchy layer of grated coconut. A perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pandan extract
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Grated coconut (about 1 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, milk, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Add pandan extract and mix well.
4. Using a piping bag or spoon, drop small balls of dough into the hot oil, about 1/4 cup each.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove donuts from oil and let cool slightly.
7. Roll donuts in grated coconut to coat.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes (depending on the size of your donuts)
Pandan Crème Brûlée with Caramelized Top
Pandan Crème Brûlée with Caramelized Top Recipe
Discover the unique fusion of Southeast Asian flavors in this creamy and caramelized dessert, featuring pandan leaves and a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon pandan extract
– 4 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and pandan extracts. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, discarding solids.
5. Whisk in egg yolks until well combined. Pour into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
8. Just before serving, caramelize the tops by sprinkling a small amount of granulated sugar over each ramekin and using a kitchen torch to burn the sugar.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (baking) + chilling time
Pandan Cheesecake with Gula Melaka Drizzle
Experience the unique fusion of Southeast Asian flavors with this pandan cheesecake, infused with the aromatic essence of pandan leaves and topped with a rich gula melaka drizzle.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
For the cheesecake:
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup pandan extract
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the gula melaka drizzle:
– 1 cup gula melaka (palm sugar syrup)
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, eggs, pandan extract, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared crust.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until set.
6. Let cool completely. Drizzle with gula melaka mixture (mix palm sugar syrup with heavy cream). Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious world of pandan desserts! This article features 19 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the unique flavor and aroma of pandan. From classic treats like pandan coconut milk jelly and pandan chiffon cake, to creative twists like pandan mochi with shredded coconut and pandan ice cream with sticky rice, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Get inspired by these flavorful desserts and try them out at home. With a range of textures and flavors, you’re sure to find a new favorite dessert in this collection!
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