Tropical Coconut Pudding Squares
Delight in the flavors of tropical paradise with these Coconut Pudding Squares, inspired by traditional Hawaiian Haupia. This luscious dessert features a velvety coconut base infused with creamy coconut milk and enhanced by the toasty essence of baked coconut flakes. Perfect for any gathering or simply for satisfying your sweet tooth, these squares are not only delicious but visually stunning. Serve them at luaus, potlucks, or dinner parties for a refreshing finish that transports you straight to the beaches of Hawaii.
N/A
Servings
183
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
sweetened flaked coconut
1/2 cup (toasted)
vegetable oil
as needed (for greasing)
coconut milk
14 ounces (canned)
cornstarch
6 tablespoons (mixed with coconut milk)
sugar
1/3 cup (granulated)
vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon (pure)
salt
1/8 teaspoon (fine)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Spread the sweetened flaked coconut evenly across a baking sheet and toast in the oven until golden brown, about 6 to 8 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, and stir occasionally for even toasting.
2
While the coconut is toasting, lightly oil an 8-inch square baking dish to prevent sticking.
3
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of coconut milk and 6 tablespoons of cornstarch until smooth and free of lumps. Set aside.
4
In a medium nonstick saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups of coconut milk and 1/3 cup of sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved.
5
Once the sugar is dissolved, slowly drizzle the cornstarch mixture into the saucepan, whisking continuously to combine. Add the vanilla extract and salt, whisking well.
6
Keep cooking the mixture over medium heat, whisking vigorously and continuously, until the pudding thickens significantly, about 4 to 6 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil. The consistency should be thick enough to pull away from the sides of the pan.
7
Pour the thick coconut mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Allow it to cool at room temperature for a few minutes before covering with plastic wrap.
8
Refrigerate the pudding for at least 1 hour, or until fully set.
9
Once set, cut the haupia into 22 to 24 triangles. Before serving, sprinkle each triangle with a pinch of the toasted coconut for added flavor and texture.
Nutrition Information
0.67g
Fat
3.67g
Carbs
0.17g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Tropical Coconut Pudding Squares?
Tropical Coconut Pudding Squares are a luscious dessert inspired by traditional Hawaiian Haupia, featuring a velvety coconut base topped with toasted coconut flakes.
What is the main flavor of these squares?
The squares are characterized by a rich coconut flavor derived from canned coconut milk and enhanced by toasted sweetened flaked coconut.
How do I toast the coconut for this recipe?
Spread the sweetened flaked coconut on a baking sheet and toast in a 325°F oven for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown.
What type of baking dish is required?
You should use an 8-inch square baking dish that has been lightly oiled to prevent the pudding from sticking.
What acts as the thickening agent in this pudding?
Cornstarch is used as the thickening agent, mixed with a portion of the coconut milk to create a smooth slurry.
How much coconut milk is needed?
The recipe requires one 14-ounce can of coconut milk, divided for different parts of the preparation.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, based on the ingredients provided, including coconut milk and cornstarch, these pudding squares are vegan.
How long does the stovetop cooking process take?
The mixture typically takes about 4 to 6 minutes of vigorous whisking over medium heat to thicken significantly.
Should the coconut mixture be boiled?
No, you should be careful not to let the pudding boil while it is thickening on the stove.
How long does the pudding need to refrigerate?
The pudding must be refrigerated for at least 1 hour or until it is fully set before cutting.
How many pieces does this recipe make?
Once set, the haupia can be cut into 22 to 24 individual triangles.
What is the best way to serve these squares?
Serve them chilled, with a pinch of toasted coconut sprinkled on top of each triangle for added texture and flavor.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 183 calories.
What is the fat content of this dessert?
Each serving contains approximately 0.67 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are approximately 3.67 grams of carbohydrates per square.
What is the protein content?
Each square provides about 0.17 grams of protein.
Can I use any type of oil for the pan?
The recipe suggests vegetable oil as needed for lightly greasing the baking dish.
How much sugar is in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of granulated sugar to sweeten the coconut milk base.
Is vanilla extract used in this recipe?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract is added to enhance the flavor of the pudding.
How much salt is required?
A small amount, specifically 1/8 teaspoon of fine salt, is used to balance the sweetness.
What texture should the cooked pudding have?
The consistency should be thick enough to pull away from the sides of the saucepan during the cooking process.
Do I need to cover the dish in the fridge?
Yes, allow the pudding to cool at room temperature for a few minutes before covering with plastic wrap and refrigerating.
What is the ideal oven temperature for the coconut topping?
The oven should be preheated to 325°F (160°C) for toasting the coconut flakes.
Is this a no-bake dessert?
While it requires stovetop cooking and oven-toasting for the topping, it is categorized as a no-bake style chilled pudding dessert.
What occasions are these squares suitable for?
They are perfect for luaus, potlucks, dinner parties, or as a refreshing tropical treat.
How do I ensure the cornstarch doesn't lump?
Whisk 6 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/2 cup of coconut milk in a separate small bowl until smooth before adding it to the heat.
Can I substitute the coconut milk?
For the authentic Hawaiian Haupia flavor and texture, canned coconut milk is the essential primary ingredient.
What shape are the servings typically cut into?
The recipe recommends cutting the set pudding into triangles for a visually stunning presentation.
Should the pudding cool before going into the fridge?
Yes, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before placing it in the refrigerator.
What is the role of the toasted coconut?
The toasted coconut provides a toasty essence and a crunchy texture that contrasts with the velvety pudding.