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Layered Pandan & Coconut Jelly (Kuih Style)

Layered Pandan & Coconut Jelly (Kuih Style) is a beautiful Southeast Asian dessert made with alternating layers of fragrant pandan jelly and creamy coconut milk jelly. It’s light, slightly chewy, and perfect for festive occasions or a refreshing sweet treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 tbsp agar-agar powder (plain, not flavored)
  • 1/2 cup sugar (for pandan layer)
  • 1/2 cup sugar (for coconut layer)
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 tsp pandan extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: a few drops of green food coloring for deeper color

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup water with 1 tbsp agar-agar powder and 1/2 cup sugar. Stir and bring to a boil over medium heat, ensuring agar dissolves completely.
  2. Once boiling, remove from heat. Stir in pandan extract and optional food coloring.
  3. Pour a thin layer into a square or rectangular mold. Let it set slightly at room temperature for 5–7 minutes until surface firms.
  4. In another saucepan, repeat with 1 cup water, 1 tbsp agar-agar powder, and 1/2 cup sugar. Bring to a boil, then add 1 cup coconut milk and a pinch of salt. Stir well and simmer for another minute.
  5. Gently pour a thin layer of the coconut mixture over the pandan layer using a spoon to avoid breaking the surface. Let it set slightly before adding the next pandan layer.
  6. Continue alternating layers until all mixtures are used, letting each layer partially set before pouring the next.
  7. Allow the full jelly to cool and set completely at room temperature or in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
  8. Once firm, slice into small squares or diamond shapes and serve chilled.

Notes

  • Stir mixtures occasionally to prevent agar from setting in the pot between pours.
  • Use a ladle or spoon to gently pour layers to avoid disturbing the one below.
  • Texture should be firm and slightly bouncy — don’t overcook the agar.
  • Can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, covered.

Nutrition

Keywords: pandan coconut jelly, kuih lapis, agar dessert, layered jelly, vegan Southeast Asian dessert