Helen Seaton'S Haupia(Hawaiian Coconut Pudding)

Prep: 45 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: Hawaiian

A luscious Hawaiian coconut pudding with pineapple, combining creamy coconut with fruity sweetness, perfect for tropical-inspired desserts and warm gatherings.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 14 oz. unsweetened grated coconut
  • 2 1/2 cups milk
  • 8 oz. can crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1/2 cup drained pineapple juice
  • 6 Tbsp. cornstarch
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp. vanilla
  • dash of salt

Instructions

  1. Put coconut into a small saucepan and add milk.
  2. Bring to a boil. Remove from heat and let stand for 30 minutes to 1 hour or overnight. Whirl in a blender for 2 minutes.
  3. Pour the mixture into a medium saucepan.
  4. Add sugar, vanilla, salt, and drained pineapple.
  5. Bring to a simmer. Mix pineapple juice and cornstarch, then add to the milk mixture and cook slowly for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent lumps.
  6. Pour into a 13 x 9-inch rectangular pan to cool.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using full-fat coconut milk instead of regular milk. You can also adjust the sweetness by using less sugar or substituting with honey or maple syrup. If you're short on time, skip soaking the coconut overnight but allow at least 30 minutes for optimal flavor. Ensure to stir the mixture continuously while cooking to avoid lumps.

Serving Suggestions

Serve haupia chilled, cut into squares, and garnish with a sprinkle of toasted coconut or fresh fruit for added texture. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or can be enjoyed as a refreshing dessert after a meal. For a fun twist, serve it alongside a Dip For Fresh Fruits for a delightful combination.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the pudding if it thickens. Stir gently until warmed through, being careful not to let it boil.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Helen Seaton'S Haupia(Hawaiian Coconut Pudding) contains roughly 416 calories, with 2g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

416 kcal 21% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.2g 4% DV
Total Fat 5.1g 7% DV
Carbs 47.4g 17% DV
Fiber 3.4g 12% DV
Sugar 17.6g 35% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 289.8mg 13% DV
Potassium 337.6mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 0.6mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 18.8mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 28.8mg 32% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 67.2mg 5% DV
Iron 1.4mg 8% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sweetened grated coconut instead of unsweetened?

Yes, you can use sweetened grated coconut, but it will alter the overall sweetness of the dessert. Reduce the sugar accordingly to balance the flavors. Keep in mind that sweetened coconut may also affect the texture slightly.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the milk with almond milk or any other plant-based milk to make a dairy-free version. Coconut milk can also be used for an extra coconut flavor. Adjust the consistency with cornstarch if necessary.

What can I serve haupia with?

Haupia is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with tropical fruits like mango or pineapple. You can also serve it alongside other desserts like Viennese Jam Cookies for a delightful treat. It makes a great addition to a Hawaiian-themed dessert platter.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

Vegetarian recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →