Easy Haupia Recipes: A Taste of Hawaiian Paradise at Home

Haupia, the creamy and subtly sweet coconut dessert from Hawaii, is surprisingly easy to make at home. Forget complicated techniques and hard-to-find ingredients. This guide will walk you through several easy Haupia recipes, from the classic to some fun variations, ensuring you can enjoy a taste of Hawaiian paradise no matter where you are.

What is Haupia?

Haupia is a traditional Hawaiian dessert made from coconut milk, sugar, and cornstarch (or traditionally, pia starch). The mixture is cooked until thickened and then chilled until firm, resulting in a smooth, pudding-like texture. It’s often served in squares, as part of a dessert plate, or even used as a filling for pies and cakes. Its mild flavor makes it incredibly versatile and a perfect complement to other tropical fruits.

Why Make Haupia at Home?

• Simplicity: Haupia requires only a handful of ingredients and a straightforward cooking process.
• Affordability: Compared to buying pre-made Haupia, making it yourself is much more budget-friendly.
• Customization: You can easily adjust the sweetness and experiment with different flavors.
• Authenticity: Recreate a beloved Hawaiian treat in your own kitchen.
• It’s Delicious!: Need we say more?

Recipe 1: Classic Haupia (The Easiest Version)

This recipe uses readily available cornstarch and canned coconut milk, making it incredibly accessible for beginners.

Ingredients:

• 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to your preference)
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup cold water
• Pinch of salt (optional, but enhances the flavor)

Equipment:

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• 8×8 inch square baking dish (or similar size), lightly greased or lined with parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps. This is crucial to prevent clumping in the final product.
2. Combine Ingredients: In the medium saucepan, pour in the coconut milk and sugar. Add the optional pinch of salt.
3. Cook Over Medium Heat: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly with the whisk until the sugar is dissolved and the coconut milk begins to simmer gently. Avoid boiling.
4. Add the Cornstarch Slurry: Reduce the heat to low. Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the coconut milk mixture while whisking constantly. This prevents the cornstarch from clumping.
5. Continue Cooking and Stirring: Continue whisking constantly until the mixture thickens significantly. This will take about 5-10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture coats the back of a spoon and leaves a clear line when you run your finger through it. Be patient and keep stirring! The mixture will go from liquidy to thick fairly quickly.
6. Pour into Baking Dish: Pour the thickened Haupia mixture into the prepared baking dish.
7. Cool and Refrigerate: Let the Haupia cool to room temperature on the counter. Then, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap (pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming) and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until firm.
8. Cut and Serve: Once the Haupia is firm, cut it into squares and serve chilled. You can dust the squares with a little shredded coconut for a nice presentation.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Overcook: Overcooking can make the Haupia rubbery. Cook just until it thickens sufficiently.
• Whisk Constantly: Constant whisking is essential to prevent lumps from forming, especially when adding the cornstarch slurry.
• Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk: For the creamiest and most flavorful Haupia, use full-fat coconut milk. Light coconut milk will work, but the texture won’t be as rich.
• Chill Thoroughly: Allow the Haupia to chill completely before cutting and serving. This ensures it sets properly and has the best texture.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the mixture before pouring it into the baking dish and adjust the sugar to your preference.

Recipe 2: Haupia with Coconut Cream (Extra Creamy)

This recipe adds coconut cream for an even richer and more decadent Haupia experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
• 1 (13.5 oz) can coconut cream (refrigerated overnight)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to your preference)
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup cold water
• Pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Coconut Cream: Carefully scoop out the thick, solidified coconut cream from the top of the refrigerated can, leaving the watery liquid behind (you can save the liquid for smoothies!).
2. Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the coconut milk, coconut cream, and sugar. Add the optional pinch of salt.
4. Cook Over Medium Heat: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is simmering gently.
5. Add the Cornstarch Slurry: Reduce the heat to low. Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the coconut milk mixture while whisking constantly.
6. Continue Cooking and Stirring: Continue whisking constantly until the mixture thickens significantly, about 5-10 minutes.
7. Pour into Baking Dish: Pour the thickened Haupia mixture into the prepared baking dish.
8. Cool and Refrigerate: Let the Haupia cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
9. Cut and Serve: Cut into squares and serve chilled.

Why this recipe works:

The addition of coconut cream intensifies the coconut flavor and creates a luxurious, velvety texture that melts in your mouth.

Recipe 3: Chocolate Haupia Pie (Haupia Goes Pie!)

This recipe transforms Haupia into a delicious pie filling, paired with a rich chocolate crust.

Ingredients:

• For the Chocolate Crust:
  • 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreos, with filling removed)
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• For the Haupia Filling:
  • 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • Pinch of salt (optional)
• Optional Toppings:
  • Whipped cream
  • Shaved chocolate
  • Toasted coconut flakes

Equipment:

• 9-inch pie plate
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chocolate Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
2. Press into Pie Plate: Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the pie plate.
3. Bake the Crust (Optional): For a crispier crust, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. Let cool completely. You can also skip baking for a no-bake version.
4. Prepare the Haupia Filling: Follow the instructions for the Classic Haupia recipe (Recipe 1).
5. Pour Filling into Crust: Pour the warm Haupia filling into the prepared chocolate crust.
6. Chill the Pie: Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until the filling is firm.
7. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, shaved chocolate, and toasted coconut flakes, if desired.
8. Slice and Enjoy: Slice the pie and serve chilled.

Variations:

• Add a Chocolate Layer: Before pouring the Haupia filling into the crust, spread a layer of melted chocolate on the bottom of the crust for an extra decadent treat.
• Coconut Extract: Add 1/2 teaspoon of coconut extract to the Haupia filling for a more intense coconut flavor.
• Top with Fruit: Arrange fresh fruit slices, such as mango, pineapple, or papaya, on top of the Haupia filling before chilling.

Recipe 4: Haupia Pudding Cups (Individual Servings)

Perfect for parties or individual desserts, these Haupia pudding cups are easy to make and beautiful to serve.

Ingredients:

• 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup cold water
• Pinch of salt (optional)
• Optional: Toasted coconut flakes, fresh fruit, or chocolate shavings for garnish

Equipment:

• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Small bowls or ramekins
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Haupia: Follow the instructions for the Classic Haupia recipe (Recipe 1).
2. Pour into Cups: While the Haupia is still warm, carefully pour it into individual serving cups or ramekins.
3. Cool and Chill: Let the pudding cups cool to room temperature, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
4. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with toasted coconut flakes, fresh fruit, or chocolate shavings, if desired.

Tips for serving:

Layer the bottom of the cup with crushed cookies for extra texture. For a fancier presentation, swirl in some melted chocolate before chilling.

Recipe 5: Vegan Haupia (Dairy-Free Delight)

This recipe ensures everyone can enjoy Haupia, using only plant-based ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 2 (13.5 oz) cans full-fat coconut milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or maple syrup for a refined sugar-free version)
• 1/4 cup cornstarch (or tapioca starch)
• 1/2 cup cold water
• Pinch of salt (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for added flavor)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch (or tapioca starch) and cold water until smooth.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sugar (or maple syrup), and optional salt.
3. Cook Over Medium Heat: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is simmering gently.
4. Add the Cornstarch Slurry: Reduce the heat to low. Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the coconut milk mixture while whisking constantly.
5. Continue Cooking and Stirring: Continue whisking constantly until the mixture thickens significantly, about 5-10 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract, if using.
6. Pour into Baking Dish: Pour the thickened Haupia mixture into the prepared baking dish.
7. Cool and Refrigerate: Let the Haupia cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until firm.
8. Cut and Serve: Cut into squares and serve chilled.

Vegan Haupia Notes:

Using maple syrup will impart a slightly different flavor and color to the Haupia, but it’s a great option for those avoiding refined sugar. Tapioca starch can be used as a substitute for cornstarch, providing a similar thickening effect.

Recipe 6: Haupia with Pineapple (Tropical Fusion)

Add a tangy twist to your Haupia with the addition of pineapple. This recipe combines the creamy sweetness of Haupia with the bright, tropical flavor of pineapple.

Ingredients:

• 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup cold water
• Pinch of salt (optional)
• 1 cup crushed pineapple, well-drained

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sugar, and optional salt.
3. Cook Over Medium Heat: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is simmering gently.
4. Add the Cornstarch Slurry: Reduce the heat to low. Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the coconut milk mixture while whisking constantly.
5. Continue Cooking and Stirring: Continue whisking constantly until the mixture thickens significantly, about 5-10 minutes.
6. Stir in Pineapple: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the well-drained crushed pineapple.
7. Pour into Baking Dish: Pour the Haupia mixture into the prepared baking dish.
8. Cool and Refrigerate: Let the Haupia cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until firm.
9. Cut and Serve: Cut into squares and serve chilled.

Pineapple Tips:

Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple very well to prevent the Haupia from becoming too watery. You can also use fresh pineapple, finely diced. If using fresh pineapple, you may want to lightly sauté it before adding it to the Haupia to soften it slightly and enhance its flavor.

Troubleshooting Your Haupia

• Lumps in Haupia: The most common cause of lumps is improper mixing of the cornstarch slurry. Always whisk the cornstarch and water together until completely smooth before adding it to the coconut milk. If lumps do form, you can try using an immersion blender to smooth out the mixture after cooking.
• Haupia is Too Runny: If your Haupia doesn’t thicken enough, it could be due to insufficient cornstarch or undercooking. Next time, increase the amount of cornstarch slightly or cook the mixture for a longer period, stirring constantly. Make sure you are using full-fat coconut milk, as light coconut milk may not provide enough richness for proper thickening.
• Haupia is Too Thick: Overcooking the Haupia can result in a rubbery or overly thick texture. Cook the mixture just until it coats the back of a spoon and leaves a clear line when you run your finger through it. If your Haupia is too thick, you can try adding a little extra coconut milk to thin it out.
• Haupia is Gritty: A gritty texture can sometimes occur if the sugar isn’t fully dissolved. Ensure that you stir the sugar constantly while cooking the mixture until it is completely dissolved.

Serving Suggestions for Haupia

• As part of a Hawaiian plate lunch: Serve alongside kalua pig, lomi salmon, and poi.
• As a dessert on its own: Garnish with toasted coconut flakes, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
• As a filling for pies and cakes: Use Haupia as a creamy and flavorful filling for your favorite baked goods.
• In parfaits: Layer Haupia with granola, fruit, and yogurt for a delicious and healthy parfait.
• As a topping for pancakes or waffles: Add a dollop of Haupia to your pancakes or waffles for a tropical twist.

Storing Haupia

Haupia should be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3-4 days. Because of its high moisture content, it’s not recommended to freeze Haupia, as the texture may change upon thawing.

Final Thoughts

With these easy Haupia recipes, you can bring a taste of Hawaii into your own kitchen. Whether you’re craving the classic flavor or want to experiment with variations like chocolate or pineapple, there’s a Haupia recipe here for everyone. So gather your ingredients, put on some Hawaiian music, and get ready to enjoy this delicious and creamy dessert!