Description
Creamy Maja Blanca is a classic Filipino dessert made with coconut milk and corn, resulting in a rich, silky pudding that’s both sweet and satisfying. This recipe incorporates full-fat coconut milk, evaporated milk, and condensed milk for a luscious texture, thickened with cornstarch, and studded with sweet corn kernels. Served chilled and topped with traditional garnishes like toasted coconut, cheese shreds, latik, and roasted peanuts, it’s a delightful sweet treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 cans Full-fat coconut milk
- 1 can Evaporated milk
- ¾ cup Sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup Cornstarch
- 1 cup Water
- 1 to 1.5 cups Whole kernel corn (canned, frozen, or fresh)
- a pinch Salt
Additional Flavorings and Garnishes
- to taste tablespoons Sugar (optional)
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- Toasted coconut (for garnish)
- Cheese shreds (for garnish)
- Latik (coconut caramel, for garnish)
- Crushed roasted peanuts (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry. In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of cornstarch with 1 cup of cold water until completely smooth and free of lumps to create the thickening slurry.
- Combine Milks and Salt. Place a pot over medium-low heat and add 2 cans of full-fat coconut milk, 1 can of evaporated milk, ¾ cup of sweetened condensed milk, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine and begin heating gently.
- Add the Corn Kernels. Stir in 1 to 1.5 cups of whole kernel corn into the milk mixture and continue heating to warm through, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Incorporate the Cornstarch Slurry. Gradually pour the cornstarch slurry into the pot while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a smooth, pudding-like consistency.
- Add Butter for Gloss. Remove the pot from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of butter until fully melted and incorporated, which will add shine and richness to the dessert.
- Set the Maja Blanca. Pour the hot mixture into a lightly greased pan. Let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes to start setting.
- Chill to Fully Set. Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for 1 to 2 hours until firm and set properly.
- Serve with Garnishes. Once set, cut the Maja Blanca into squares and top with traditional garnishes like toasted coconut, cheese shreds, latik, and crushed roasted peanuts before serving.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk or add sugar to taste if you prefer a sweeter dessert.
- For best texture, ensure continuous stirring when adding the cornstarch slurry to avoid lumps.
- Latik can be homemade by reducing coconut cream until golden brown or bought pre-made from Filipino stores.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 3 days for best freshness.
- You can substitute fresh corn when in season for the best flavor, or use frozen or canned corn for convenience.