
This sunny treat with mango, coconut, and bouncy tapioca pearls is my ultimate pick-me-up when it’s blazing outside or I need a boost. Creamy coconut milk, sweet golden mango and silky pearls come together for a dessert that’s both cool and rich.
Every time I spot mangoes at the store my family starts asking for this. Guests always want seconds when we bring it out after a BBQ.
Luscious Ingredients
- Sago tapioca pearls, small size: Brings that classic bite to the dessert Go for ones that all look the same size so they cook evenly
- Juicy fresh mango: Sweet and fragrant Make sure yours are nice and ripe but not mushy—the smell is a giveaway
- Extra mango cubes: Every scoop pops with more fruity bits
- Coconut jelly: For a gentle coconut flavor and chewy pieces Pick ones that feel firm but easy to bite through
- Mango jelly: Deepens the fruity flavor and adds another layer of texture Grab some from the store or make a batch
- Chilled evaporated milk: Makes everything cold and thick Use straight from the fridge so everything's ice-cold from the get go
- Sweetened condensed milk: Turns it extra creamy and sweet Taste as you go—mangoes can be a little tart or super sweet
- Rich full-fat coconut milk: The creamy base—don’t forget to shake your can so it all mixes together
Easy How-To Steps
- Chill and Dish Up
- Pop the whole thing in the fridge covered for at least an hour till totally chilled Want it even colder right away? Toss in some ice Serve it up in glasses with spoons add more mango chunks or a drizzle of coconut milk if you like
- Mix Everything Together
- Let the sago drain and put it in a big bowl Fold in your mango cubes coconut jelly and mango jelly Pour in coconut milk and condensed milk Toss in the mango puree then mix it all well Taste and see if you want it sweeter with more condensed milk
- Blend Mango and Milk
- As you wait on the sago blend up diced mango and really cold evaporated milk until it’s smooth like a thick sauce This will make the whole thing taste like mango sunshine
- Let Sago Rest & Rinse
- Once the pearls finish cooking take them off the heat and cover Let them soak for fifteen minutes until see-through Rinse in a fine strainer under cold water then let them cool off in a bowl of cold water so they don’t stick
- Cook the Sago Pearls
- Start with a pot of boiling water then pour in your sago Give it a gentle stir and simmer for about fifteen minutes until the outside is clear and there’s just a teeny white center This makes sure you get that chewy bite

I love the way coconut milk pulls everything together. It keeps the whole thing creamy but never too heavy. My first time making it, my mom said it reminded her of festival days. Now we always make this for a happy gathering.
Storing Leftovers
Move leftovers to a container with a good lid, then stash in the fridge for up to two days. The pearls might soak up more liquid and get a bit thick—just stir in a splash of extra coconut milk if you want to loosen it up before eating.
Swaps for Ingredients
No fresh mango? Don’t worry—frozen (thawed) mango works fine for both the sauce and the toppings. Try lychee jelly instead, or if you’re keeping it simple, skip the jellies. Light coconut milk is okay, but it’s not as rich and creamy.

How to Serve
Tastes best icy from the fridge. Show it off in see-through cups for parties. Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes or a mint sprig on top to make it fancy and extra tasty.
Fun Facts & Background
This cool comfort dessert first came out of Hong Kong but folks all around Southeast Asia now love it. Different places add things like pomelo or extra toppings but mango, coconut, and tapioca always make it what it is.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of mango works best?
Go for mangos that are super sweet and juicy, like Ataulfo or Tommy Atkins, to get the best flavor and that awesome yellow color.
- → How do I prevent sago pearls from clumping?
Once cooked, rinse the sago under cold water. Let them chill in a bowl of icy water and they’ll stay separate when you mix everything together.
- → Can I replace coconut jelly or mango jelly?
Feel free to swap in any fruity jelly you like, or just skip the jelly if that’s your style or you can’t find it.
- → How do I achieve the best creamy texture?
Use coconut milk that’s not light, and blend your mango with cold evaporated milk before mixing. This makes it extra smooth and rich.
- → How should this dessert be served?
Get it good and cold before serving. Top with more mango or a splash of coconut milk for a fresh finish.