Sweet Corn Coconut Pudding — Light & Fresh (Chè Bắp)
A lighter, modern take on the classic: fresh corn kernels simmered gently in coconut milk with just enough sugar to bring out the corn’s natural sweetness. Thickened with a touch of tapioca pearls for texture. Clean, bright, and naturally sweet.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine Vietnamese
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 3-4 tbsp tablespoons sugar adjust to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons tapioca pearls optional, for texture
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water slurry
- Optional topping: coconut cream drizzle toasted sesame seeds, crushed roasted peanuts
If using tapioca pearls, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes and drain.
Combine the corn and water in a pot and bring to a boil, then simmer until the corn is tender.
Add coconut milk, sugar, salt, and the soaked tapioca pearls if using, then simmer to blend the flavors.
Stir the cornstarch slurry and pour it in while stirring to lightly thicken the pudding.
Taste and adjust sweetness or salt.
Serve warm or chilled with coconut cream and sesame seeds or peanuts if desired.
- Add a splash of water before serving for a lighter consistency.
- Increase coconut milk for a creamier texture.
- Fresh summer corn gives the brightest flavor but frozen works well.
- Tapioca pearls add chew but can be omitted for a cleaner bowl.
- Keeps in the fridge for three to four days.
Keyword che bap, coconut corn pudding, corn coconut dessert, light Vietnamese desserts, modern che, Vietnamese pudding, Vietnamese sweet corn pudding