Haupia: Indulge in Delicious Hawaiian Coconut Pudding (2024)

Experience the taste of Hawaii with this easy haupia recipe! The tropical flavor of creamy coconut milk makes this traditional Hawaiian pudding a favorite at luaus and potlucks. With its smooth, velvety texture and rich coconut flavor, this traditional coconut milk dessert is perfect for anyone who wants to experience a taste of island life.

Made with 4 simple ingredients, coconut milk, sugar, cornstarch and water, the haupia recipe is a gluten-free and dairy-free dessert making it perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions.

A while ago, I posted a recipe for Hawaiian style haupia chocolate pie. I figured it’s about time that I post a basic Hawaiian haupia recipe.

The Haupia recipe is easy

Haupia really is simple. It’s just a few ingredients, and it comes together quickly. No special equipment, no special ingredients. It’s one of the easiest Hawaiian inspired coconut milk recipes you can find.

I personally like mine in pie form, because… well, there’s chocolate in it. But I will say, sometimes it’s better to just eat it plain, because it’s so refreshing! It really is one of the best Hawaiian coconut milk desserts.

Haupia pudding or jelly like squares?

My husband loves haupia. When I asked him for a bit more info on what traditional haupia should be like, he said, well… it should be firm enough that you can pick it up and eat it.

I then asked my sister in law how she eats hers. Well, she said, I think the authentic way is to have it closer to a custard, and you eat it with a spoon!

So, my husband is born and raised in Hawaii, as is my sister in law. But, I trust her more, heh heh.

She looked into it a little more for me and told meauthentic Hawaiian coconut haupia should probably be somewhere in between custard and jelly like squares.

Well, my husband likes his in Jelly like squares, so that’s what I’ve decided to share with you today. It’s also easier to eat, because you can just pick it up and eat it.

If you want it to be softer, the solution is easy. Just add a little less cornstarch! You can play with the amount, maybe starting at 4 tablespoons instead of 5. Totally customizable to your tastes!

Haupia with Hawaiian pineapple

Pineapple and coconut flavors go well together so it naturally some people like to add pineapple to this recipe. I don’t normally add pineapple but adding crushed pineapple before serving can add a little more tropical flavor.

Next time you’re feeling like you need a little tropical kick in your life, give this haupia a try!

Coconut Milk Desserts

Try some of my other Hawaiian dessert recipes. My Butter Mochi and my Chocolate Ganache Tart are two of my favorite Hawaiian desserts with coconut milk. Give them a try!