Coconut Haupia Pies: An Easy Hawaiian Dessert For Any Occasion

Coconut Haupia Pie is a Hawaiian classic that is easy to make and brings the tropics to your table. Whether it is a potluck, family dinner or party, this creamy and smooth dessert never disappoints. Haupia, the coconut milk-based pudding, is the star of the show, with it is silky texture and flavor. Add a buttery pie crust and sometimes chocolate and it is a dessert that is both fancy and comforting.

You do not have to be a pro baker to make this pie, it is all about simplicity and letting the coconut shine. The light sweetness and smooth texture make it a dessert you can enjoy any time of the year. It is versatile too, serving it chilled in the summer or as a cozy treat in the cooler months. With only a few ingredients and some time to set, you’ll have a fancy dessert that’s low maintenance.

Tropical flavors and easy recipes? Coconut Haupia Pie is the winner. Slice of heaven in every bite.

How To Bake A Coconut Haupia Pie

Coconut Haupia Pie is a Hawaiian classic, silky coconut pudding (haupia) in a buttery crust. Layers of creamy texture and subtle sweetness. Perfect for any occasion, formal or casual, it is simple and exotic.

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into pieces
• 1-2 tablespoons sugar
• 3-4 tablespoons ice water

For the haupia filling:

• 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
• 1 cup (240ml) water
• ½ cup (100g) sugar
• ½ cup (60g) cornstarch

Method

1. Mix flour, sugar and butter in a bowl. Use your fingers to mix until crumbly.
2. Add water gradually and form a dough.
3. Roll out, place in a pie pan and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15-18 minutes or until golden. Cool.
4. Mix coconut milk, water, sugar and cornstarch in a saucepan.
5. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened (about 8-10 minutes).
6. Pour into the cooled crust. Smooth top and let set at room temperature.
7. Chill for 2-3 hours or until firm.
8. Then top it with whipped cream or toasted coconut flakes before serving.

7 Tips And Tricks For Coconut Haupia Pie

1. Use Good Coconut Milk

The secret to a creamy and delicious haupia filling is in the coconut milk. Use full-fat canned coconut milk, not light versions. Do not use diluted coconut milk or it will be runny and compromise the flavor. Always shake the can well before opening to distribute the coconut cream and liquid evenly.

2. Get The Crust Right For A Crisp Bottom

A buttery flaky crust is the perfect contrast to the haupia filling. Use cold butter and ice-cold water when making the dough to get the flakiness right. Once the dough is ready, blind-bake the crust with weights (or dried beans) to prevent it from puffing up. Let it cool completely before pouring in the filling so the crust stays crisp and does not absorb excess moisture.

3. Stir Constantly For A Smooth Haupia Filling

Consistency is key to haupia and constant stirring during cooking ensures a smooth lump free texture. Use a whisk to mix the cornstarch and sugar into the coconut milk before heating. Stir constantly over medium heat while cooking so it does not lump and burn.

4. Let It Set

Patience is key to haupia perfection, once you pour the filling into the crust, let it set at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before refrigerating. Chill for at least 2-3 hours or overnight for best results.

5. Add A Tropical Topping For Extra Oomph

Haupia pie is good on its own but a little topping makes it even better. Sprinkle lightly toasted coconut flakes on top for crunch and flavor. For a fancy finish, dollop whipped cream on each slice and sprinkle with powdered sugar.

6. No Soggy Bottom Crust

When making pies, one of the biggest mistakes is ending up with a soggy crust. To prevent this, brush the baked pie crust with a thin layer of melted chocolate or egg wash before adding the haupia filling. This layer acts as a barrier to the moisture from the pudding and helps keep the crust crisp for longer.

7. Adjust Sweetness To Taste

Haupia pie has a subtle coconut flavor and is sweet enough. If you like it sweeter, add a little more sugar to the filling. If you prefer less sweet, stick to the recipe and balance it with unsweetened toppings like coconut flakes or nuts. You can customize the sweetness to your liking.