Description
Creamy Maja Blanca is a traditional Filipino dessert made with coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and corn kernels, thickened with cornstarch to create a smooth, pudding-like treat. It is lightly sweetened and topped with toasted grated coconut or extra corn kernels for added texture, making it a delicious and comforting dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
- 1 can (400g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup sugar (optional, depending on sweetness preference)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Topping
- 1/4 cup toasted grated coconut or corn kernels (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the cornstarch mixture: In a bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in 1/2 cup of water to make a smooth slurry. Set aside to ensure no lumps remain before cooking.
- Combine liquids: In a medium saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and sugar (if using). Stir over low heat until the mixture is well combined and gently heated through without boiling.
- Add the cornstarch mixture: Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the milk mixture while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring over low heat until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add corn kernels: Stir in the corn kernels evenly into the thickened mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to become fully combined.
- Set the mixture: Pour the creamy mixture into a greased 9×9-inch square pan or individual molds, spreading it evenly. Allow it to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate it for at least 2 hours to set completely and firm up.
- Top and serve: Before serving, sprinkle the topping of toasted grated coconut or additional corn kernels over the dessert for extra texture and flavor. Cut into squares or serve in individual portions and enjoy.
Notes
- You can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn kernels based on availability.
- Sugar is optional since sweetened condensed milk adds plenty of sweetness; adjust according to taste.
- Be sure to stir constantly when adding the cornstarch slurry to avoid lumps.
- Cooling and refrigerating the dessert is essential for it to firm up into the classic pudding texture.
- For a nuttier flavor, toast the grated coconut before using as a topping.
