Creamy Hawaiian Haupia Coconut Pudding Squares
A silky, smooth, and creamy coconut pudding dessert that sets firm enough to cut into squares. This easy recipe uses simple ingredients and offers a taste of Hawaiian flavors, perfect for gatherings or a quick sweet treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups (960 ml) full-fat canned coconut milk
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)
- Optional garnishes: toasted coconut flakes, fresh pineapple chunks or mango slices, edible flowers
Instructions
- Prepare the cornstarch slurry by whisking together 1/2 cup (120 ml) of the coconut milk with 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch until smooth and lump-free. Set aside.
- Pour the remaining 3 1/2 cups (840 ml) of coconut milk into a medium saucepan. Add sugar and salt, warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves and mixture is hot but not boiling.
- Slowly whisk the cornstarch slurry into the hot coconut milk. Stir constantly and cook for 5–7 minutes until mixture thickens to pudding-like consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract if using.
- Pour pudding into a prepared 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking dish. Smooth the surface with a spatula. Cover with plastic wrap pressed onto the surface to prevent skin formation.
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours until firm enough to cut into squares. Alternatively, chill in freezer for about 1 hour but do not freeze solid.
- Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water to slice pudding into squares. Garnish with toasted coconut or fresh fruit if desired.
Notes
Use full-fat coconut milk for best texture. Whisk cornstarch with cold coconut milk before adding to hot mixture to avoid lumps. Use a warm knife for clean cuts. Chill pudding fully for best firmness. Can substitute arrowroot or tapioca starch for cornstarch but texture may vary.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (approximat
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 15
- Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Protein: 1
Keywords: haupia, coconut pudding, Hawaiian dessert, creamy pudding, coconut milk dessert, vegan dessert, gluten-free dessert