Mango and Banana Sago Dessert
Creamy, fruity, and wonderfully refreshing, Mango and Banana Sago Dessert is a classic crowd-pleaser that works just as well for everyday treats as it does for special gatherings. Soft, chewy tapioca pearls are folded into ripe mangoes and sweet bananas, then coated in a silky milk-and-cream mixture that chills into pure comfort. This dessert is especially popular in warm weather, but honestly, it disappears fast any time of year. It is simple to prepare, easy to customize, and guaranteed to bring bright tropical flavor to your table.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 1–2 hours
Total time: About 2 hours
Ingredients
Small sago (tapioca pearls): 2 cups
Water (for boiling sago): 2 liters
Sweet mangoes, cubed: 1 kg (about 6 large mangoes)
Bananas (lakatan or similar), cubed: 6 large
Heavy cream or all-purpose cream: 250 ml
Fresh milk or evaporated milk: 370 ml
Condensed milk: 1 can (300 ml), adjust to taste
Instructions
Bring 2 liters of water to a rolling boil in a large pot.
Add the sago pearls and stir gently to prevent sticking.
Cook the sago over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until mostly translucent with a tiny white center.
Turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let the sago sit for 5 minutes to finish cooking.
Drain the sago in a fine sieve and rinse thoroughly under cold running water to remove excess starch.
Set the drained sago aside and allow it to cool completely.
Peel and cube the mangoes and bananas into bite-sized pieces.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, milk, and condensed milk. Stir until smooth and well blended.
Add the cooled sago, mangoes, and bananas to the milk mixture and gently fold until evenly combined.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Serve well chilled.
Tips
Rinse sago thoroughly after cooking to keep the dessert from turning gummy.
Use very ripe mangoes for the best natural sweetness and aroma.
Choose firm bananas so they hold their shape after mixing.
Cool the sago completely before adding fruit to avoid wilting.
Taste before chilling and adjust sweetness if needed.
Chill in a glass or stainless steel bowl to keep flavors clean.
Stir gently to avoid breaking the fruit.
Cover tightly while chilling to prevent absorbing fridge odors.
For extra creaminess, slightly reduce the milk and add more cream.
Serve cold for the best texture and flavor balance.
Variations
Add coconut milk for a richer, tropical flavor.
Mix in nata de coco or kaong for extra texture.
Use almond or oat milk for a lighter version.
Replace bananas with ripe papaya or peaches.
Add a splash of vanilla extract for depth.
Include a small pinch of salt to enhance sweetness.
Top with crushed ice for an ultra-refreshing summer dessert.
Blend half the mangoes and mix in for a thicker base.
Add chia seeds for a nutritional boost.
Serve in individual cups layered with fruit for presentation.
Q & A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Why is my sago still white in the center?
It needs a bit more resting time after boiling.
Can I reduce the sweetness?
Absolutely. Start with half the condensed milk and adjust.
Is this dessert freezer-friendly?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture changes.
What type of mango works best?
Carabao or any sweet, non-fibrous mango.
Can I skip the cream?
Yes, but the dessert will be less rich.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Best consumed within 1–2 days.
Can I use large tapioca pearls?
Small sago is better for even texture.
Is this kid-friendly?
Very much so. Kids love the sweetness and creaminess.
Can I serve it warm?
It is best served chilled for flavor and texture.
Nutrition
(approx. per serving)
Calories: 320–350 kcal
Carbohydrates: 55 g
Protein: 6 g
Fat: 10 g
Fiber: 3 g
Calcium: Moderate
Values may vary depending on portion size and ingredient brands.
Conclusion
Mango and Banana Sago Dessert is one of those recipes that proves simple ingredients can create something truly special. With its creamy base, chewy sago, and naturally sweet fruit, it delivers comfort and freshness in every spoonful. Whether you serve it after a family meal or as a highlight at a celebration, it is guaranteed to impress without stress. Make it once, and it will quickly earn a permanent spot in your dessert rotation.