In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in 0.5 cups of sugar until fully dissolved.

Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of gelatin over the hot sugar-water mixture. Stir gently and let sit for about 2 minutes to dissolve.

Add 1 cup of milk to the mixture, stirring continuously, then pour in 1 cup of coconut milk and blend until homogenous.

If using, add 1 teaspoon of almond extract and mix well for maximum flavor.

Prepare molds by lightly greasing, pour in the pudding mixture, and let cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours to set.

Once set, remove from the refrigerator, unmold, and slice the pudding into squares or wedges.

Serve chilled, optionally garnished with fresh fruit or honey.