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dessert_biteEasyHawaiian

Haupia Coconut Squares

Traditional Hawaiian coconut pudding cut into creamy, jiggly squares

⏱️ Prep: 15min🍳 Cook: 10min⏰ Total: 25min👥 Serves: 36🌡️ cold
✓ vegan✓ vegetarian✓ gluten-free✓ dairy-free

Ingredients

  • 2 canscoconut milk(13.5 oz each, full fat)
  • 0.75 cupsugar
  • 0.5 cupcornstarch
  • 0.5 cupwater
  • 0.25 tspsalt
  • 0.25 cuptoasted coconut flakes(for garnish)

📝 Make Ahead

Must be made at least 4 hours ahead. Can be made up to 3 days ahead; keep refrigerated and cut just before serving.

Instructions

  1. Line 8x8 inch pan with plastic wrap, leaving overhang
  2. Whisk cornstarch with water until smooth
  3. Combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt in saucepan over medium heat
  4. Bring to simmer, stirring to dissolve sugar
  5. Slowly whisk in cornstarch mixture
  6. Cook, stirring constantly, until very thick (about 5-7 minutes)
  7. Pour into prepared pan and smooth top
  8. Cover surface with plastic wrap
  9. Refrigerate at least 4 hours until firm
  10. Cut into 1-inch squares
  11. Garnish with toasted coconut
  12. Serve chilled

💡 Pro Tips

Use full-fat coconut milk for best flavor and texture. Stir constantly while thickening to prevent lumps. The pudding should be very thick before pouring - it won't set properly if too thin. Wet your knife for cleaner cuts.

📜 History

Haupia is a traditional Hawaiian coconut dessert that has been served at luaus for generations. Made from coconut milk thickened with starch, it was originally set with arrowroot. The simple, pure coconut flavor represents the essence of Hawaiian cuisine.

🍸 Pairs Well With

Also pairs well with:

mai-taipina-coladarumchampagne