Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a truly unique and delicious dessert? This Chocolate Haupia Cream Pie combines the rich, decadent indulgence of chocolate with the creamy, coconutty goodness of haupia, a traditional Hawaiian dessert. It’s the perfect blend of familiar flavors with a surprising tropical twist, making it ideal for a special occasion or a simple weeknight treat. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking and delivers a delightful, healthy alternative to heavier pies. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this quick dinner dessert!
Ingredients:
For the Haupia Layer:
- 1 (13.5 ounce) can full-fat coconut milk, refrigerated overnight
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
Making the Haupia Layer:
- Scoop the cream: Carefully scoop out the thick, solidified coconut cream from the top of the refrigerated can of coconut milk, leaving the watery liquid behind.
- Whisk ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the coconut cream, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
- Cook the mixture: Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Cool and set: Pour the haupia mixture into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming, and refrigerate until completely chilled and set (at least 4 hours, preferably overnight).
Making the Chocolate Ganache:
- Heat the cream: Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until it just begins to simmer.
- Combine with chocolate: Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then gently whisk until smooth and glossy.
- Cool slightly: Let the ganache cool slightly before using.
Assembling the Pie:
- Prepare the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate.
- Layer the haupia: Spread the chilled haupia evenly over the graham cracker crust.
- Pour the ganache: Pour the cooled chocolate ganache over the haupia layer and spread it smoothly.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours to allow the ganache to set. Serve chilled and enjoy this delicious and easy recipe!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use full-fat coconut milk for both the haupia and ganache.
- Add a pinch of sea salt to the ganache for a sophisticated touch.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate or milk chocolate.
- Garnish with toasted coconut flakes, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries before serving.
- If you don't have graham cracker crumbs, you can use digestive biscuits or even crushed Oreo cookies for the crust.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Protein: 4-5g
This Chocolate Haupia Cream Pie is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will impress even the most discerning dessert lovers. The creamy haupia layer perfectly complements the rich chocolate ganache, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Enjoy!