Coconut Cream Delight (Maja Blanca)
Indulge in the creamy goodness of Coconut Cream Delight, a beloved Filipino dessert known as Maja Blanca. This delightful pudding is a perfect balance of rich coconut flavor and sweetness, making it a popular choice for celebrations and gatherings. Made with silky coconut milk, this treat has a smooth texture that gently melts in your mouth. The addition of toasted shredded coconut on top adds a delightful crunch, creating a perfect contrast to the creamy base. Ideal for potlucks and family gatherings, this dessert will transport you to the islands with each bite. Serve it chilled, and watch it disappear in no time!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
cornstarch
1/2 cup (Mix with water until smooth.)
water
1/2 cup (Use to dissolve cornstarch.)
sugar
1/2 cup (Sweeten the coconut milk mixture.)
diluted coconut milk
2 cups (Dilute with water (1/2-3/4 cup of water per cup of coconut milk) and shake well.)
toasted sweetened flaked coconut
1 cup (Use as a topping for garnish.)
Instructions
1
Begin by lightly greasing an 8-inch square or round pan with vegetable oil. Set it aside.
2
In a non-stick saucepan over medium heat, combine the diluted coconut milk and sugar. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
3
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, thoroughly mix the cornstarch with water until smooth and free of lumps.
4
As the coconut milk mixture begins to boil, slowly pour in the cornstarch mixture while stirring vigorously.
5
Continue to stir constantly for about 2-4 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and becomes fully cooked. Be careful to prevent it from scorching on the bottom.
6
Once thickened, pour the mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Allow it to cool at room temperature until firmly set, which may take about 1-2 hours.
7
After it has set, slice the pudding diagonally into serving pieces.
8
Just before serving, sprinkle the toasted sweetened flaked coconut over the top to retain its crunch and enjoy this delightful dessert!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Coconut Cream Delight (Maja Blanca)?
Coconut Cream Delight, or Maja Blanca, is a beloved Filipino coconut pudding dessert known for its creamy texture and rich flavor.
What are the main ingredients for this recipe?
The main ingredients are cornstarch, water, sugar, diluted coconut milk, and toasted sweetened flaked coconut.
How do I prepare the cornstarch?
Thoroughly mix 1/2 cup of cornstarch with 1/2 cup of water in a small bowl until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
How should I dilute the coconut milk?
Dilute the coconut milk by adding 1/2 to 3/4 cup of water per cup of coconut milk and shake it well before use.
What size pan should I use?
This recipe is designed for an 8-inch square or round pan.
How do I prevent the pudding from sticking to the pan?
Lightly grease the pan with vegetable oil before pouring in the coconut mixture.
At what heat should I cook the coconut milk mixture?
Combine the diluted coconut milk and sugar in a non-stick saucepan over medium heat.
When do I add the cornstarch mixture?
Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the saucepan once the coconut milk and sugar mixture begins to boil.
How long does it take for the mixture to thicken?
It typically takes about 2 to 4 minutes of constant stirring for the mixture to thicken and become fully cooked.
How can I prevent the mixture from scorching?
Stir the mixture vigorously and constantly while it is cooking on the stove.
How do I ensure the top of the pudding is smooth?
Once you pour the mixture into the pan, use a spatula to smooth out the top surface while it is still warm.
How long does Maja Blanca take to set?
Allow the pudding to cool at room temperature for approximately 1 to 2 hours until it is firmly set.
How should I slice the Maja Blanca?
After the pudding has set, slice it diagonally into serving pieces.
When should I add the toasted coconut topping?
Sprinkle the toasted sweetened flaked coconut over the top just before serving to ensure it stays crunchy.
Is this dessert suitable for potlucks?
Yes, Maja Blanca is an ideal dessert for potlucks, family gatherings, and celebrations.
Should I serve Maja Blanca warm or cold?
It is recommended to serve this dessert chilled for the best taste and texture.
What type of saucepan is best for this recipe?
A non-stick saucepan is recommended to prevent the thick pudding from sticking or burning.
What is the texture of Coconut Cream Delight?
It has a smooth, silky texture that melts in your mouth, contrasted by a crunchy coconut topping.
How many ingredients are used in this recipe?
There are 5 primary ingredients used: cornstarch, water, sugar, coconut milk, and flaked coconut.
Can I use regular shredded coconut instead of flaked?
The recipe calls for toasted sweetened flaked coconut, which provides a specific crunch and sweetness for the garnish.
How much sugar is required for this pudding?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of sugar to sweeten the coconut milk base.
What kind of oil should I use to grease the pan?
Vegetable oil is recommended for lightly greasing the 8-inch pan.
Is Maja Blanca a traditional Filipino dish?
Yes, it is a very popular and traditional dessert in Filipino cuisine.
Why is constant stirring necessary?
Constant stirring ensures a smooth consistency and prevents the cornstarch from forming lumps or burning at the bottom.
Can I prepare this dessert in advance?
Yes, because it needs at least 1-2 hours to set, it is a great make-ahead dessert for parties.
What should the cornstarch and water mixture look like?
The mixture should be thoroughly combined until it is completely smooth and free of any dry lumps.
How much diluted coconut milk is needed?
You will need 2 cups of diluted coconut milk for this specific recipe.
How much toasted coconut is used for the topping?
The recipe suggests using 1 cup of toasted sweetened flaked coconut for the garnish.
Does the pudding set at room temperature?
Yes, it can be left at room temperature for 1-2 hours to set firmly.
Is the coconut milk brought to a boil?
Yes, you should bring the coconut milk and sugar mixture to a gentle boil before adding the cornstarch slurry.