Hawaiian Grilled Haupia Coconut Cakes

Introduction

These Hawaiian Grilled Haupia Coconut Cakes have a crispy coconut exterior and a creamy, delicate center. Made entirely on the Arteflame grill, you get an even sear without burning the cakes. The flavors of natural coconut shine through, giving you a dessert that perfectly complements any grilled meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups coconut milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them inside the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the napkins and allow the fire to establish. Your grill will be ready in about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Haupia Coconut Mixture

1. In a bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth.
2. In a saucepan on the flat top of the Arteflame grill, heat the coconut milk and sugar until the sugar dissolves.
3. Slowly whisk in the cornstarch mixture, stirring continuously until it thickens into a pudding-like consistency.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
5. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and refrigerate for at least two hours until firm.

Step 3: Cut and Coat the Haupia

1. Once set, cut the haupia into small squares or rectangles.
2. Coat each piece with shredded coconut to form a textured, crispy crust.

Step 4: Grill the Haupia Cakes

1. Spread butter on the flat-top griddle section of the Arteflame grill.
2. Place the haupia cakes on the hot griddle, grilling them until they develop a crispy, golden exterior, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Carefully flip the cakes using a spatula to avoid breaking them.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the cakes from the grill and let them cool slightly.
2. Serve warm with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey.

Tips

• Use cold haupia to keep the cakes firm while grilling.
• Coat well with shredded coconut to enhance the crispy exterior.
• Grill over medium heat on the flat-top griddle to prevent burning.

Variations

1. Chocolate Haupia: Mix in 1/4 cup of melted dark chocolate into the haupia mixture before setting.
2. Dried Mango Haupia: Add finely chopped dried mango pieces to the mixture for a fruity twist.
3. Macadamia Nut Haupia: Sprinkle crushed macadamia nuts on top before grilling for extra crunch.
4. Caramelized Pineapple Haupia: Top with grilled pineapple slices for a tropical upgrade.
5. Coconut Rum Haupia: Add a splash of coconut rum to the mixture for an adult version of this dessert.

Best Pairings

• Fresh tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, or passion fruit.
• Vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast.
• A drizzle of warm chocolate or caramel sauce.
• Paired with grilled seafood or pork for a sweet-salty balance.
• Served with a coconut or pineapple rum cocktail.

Conclusion

This grilled haupia coconut cake recipe delivers crispy, creamy goodness with every bite. The Arteflame’s flat-top griddle sears the cakes perfectly while preserving their delicate interior. Try these variations and bring the spirit of Hawaii to your backyard!