Dairy-Free Creamy Strawberry Lime Pudding

Prep: 10 minCook: 5 min6 servingsmediumAmerican
Creamy Strawberry Lime Pudding with Natural Gelatin

A refreshing dairy-free pudding that combines sweet strawberries with bright lime zest for a perfect balance of flavors. Made with plant-based milk and natural gelatin, this smooth dessert sets beautifully and offers a light, creamy texture. Perfect for warm weather entertaining or as a healthy dessert option that feels indulgent without dairy or eggs. The fresh lime zest adds aromatic citrus notes that complement the berry sweetness beautifully.

Ingredients

6 servings
  • 2 cups dairy-free milk of choice
  • 2 tablespoons dairy-free milk of choice
  • 2 teaspoons sustainably-sourced gelatin, certified glyphosate-free
    agar powder1:2 ratiovegan

    use half the amount

    Full guide →
  • 1 lime, just the zest
  • 8 organic strawberries, large
    raspberries1:1 ratioberry swap

    similar texture and tartness

    Full guide →
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice, fresh
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 pinches sea salt
  • teaspoon liquid stevia extract, or to taste
    maple syrup1:8 rationatural sweetener

    will change flavor profile

    Full guide →

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine dairy-free milk and gelatin in a small bowl, stir until gelatin dissolves

  2. 2

    Heat dairy-free milk and lime zest in a saucepan over medium heat until hot and steaming but not boiling

  3. 3

    Puree strawberries until smooth to make about 1 cup of puree

  4. 4

    Combine strawberry puree, lime juice, vanilla extract, and salt in a medium bowl

  5. 5

    Strain lime zest from hot milk

  6. 6

    Whisk gelatin mixture into hot milk until completely dissolved

  7. 7

    Stir in strawberry mixture until thoroughly combined

  8. 8

    Add stevia gradually, tasting for desired sweetness

  9. 9

    Cover and chill for several hours or overnight until set

  10. 10

    Whisk until smooth before serving

Tips

Tip 1

Use a high-powered blender for the smoothest strawberry puree, though a regular blender or stick blender will work fine

Tip 2

Strain the lime zest thoroughly to prevent any bitter pieces in the final pudding

Tip 3

Add stevia gradually and taste frequently as the sweetness can vary between brands

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate covered for up to 4 days

Make Ahead

Best made 4-24 hours ahead to allow proper setting

Serve With

Serve chilled, whisked smooth if needed

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't boil the milk to avoid curdling

Watch

Strain lime zest completely to avoid bitter pieces

Watch

Dissolve gelatin fully to prevent lumps

Substitutions

Vegan Options

gelatin
agar powder1:2 ratiovegan

use half the amount

Full guide →

General Alternatives

stevia
maple syrup1:8 rationatural sweetener

will change flavor profile

Full guide →
strawberries
raspberries1:1 ratioberry swap

similar texture and tartness

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I use agar instead of gelatin?

Yes, use 1 teaspoon agar powder instead of 2 teaspoons gelatin. Dissolve in hot milk and follow same process for vegan option.

How long does this pudding keep?

Store covered in refrigerator for up to 4 days. Whisk smooth before serving if it separates slightly.

Can I freeze this pudding?

Freezing isn't recommended as gelatin-based puddings can become grainy and separate when thawed.