Jump to Recipe Print Recipe“Did you get the leche flan?” My friend exclaimed, eyes sparkling with delight as we gathered at a table overflowing with mouthwatering dishes. The mere mention of Filipino desserts had everyone buzzing, but I was swept away by another favorite—Maja Blanca. This traditional coconut pudding carries with it the essence of home, comfort, and cherished family moments. With its creamy texture and delightful sweetness from fresh corn, my Maja Blanca recipe promises to elevate any gathering and impress your loved ones, all while being gluten-free. Not only is it straightforward to whip up, but it’s also a versatile base for variations like Ube or Mango, making it a perfect canvas for your creativity. Curious to discover how to bring this flavorful slice of the Philippines to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this silky coconut pudding delight! Why is Maja Blanca a must-try? Irresistible Creaminess: The rich blend of coconut and milk creates a luxurious texture that melts in your mouth. Endless Variations: Customize it with flavors like Ube or Mango for a twist on a classic, ensuring every bite is unique! Crowd Favorite: Perfect for family gatherings, this dessert brings people together and delivers smiles all around. Quick and Easy: You can whip up this treat in no time, making it ideal for those who crave homemade goodness without the hassle! Gluten-Free Goodness: Enjoy this delightful pudding worry-free, knowing everyone can indulge in its creamy sweetness. Dive into the world of Filipino desserts and explore the delightful contrasts of flavors in our Classic Maja Blanca. Maja Blanca Ingredients • Explore the essentials for making this creamy coconut dessert! For the Pudding Coconut Milk – Aim for high-quality, thick coconut milk for that luscious creamy base. Whole Milk – Balances the flavors and creaminess; swap with more coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Sweetened Condensed Milk – Brings out the sweetness and richness—feel free to adjust based on your taste preference. Cornstarch – Essential for thickening the pudding to achieve that desired silky texture. Fresh Corn Kernels – Gives a delightful sweetness and texture; frozen corn works too, just thaw and drain first. For the Toppings (Optional) Cheese – A sprinkle of cheese enhances the traditional salty-sweet experience associate with Filipino desserts. Toasted Coconut Flakes – Adds a crunchy texture and an extra coconutty flavor layer. Additional Corn – For those who want to amplify the corniness in each blissful bite! Get ready to indulge in the magic of Maja Blanca, a traditional Filipino treasure that celebrates the spirit of home! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maja Blanca Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients In a heavy-bottomed pot, combine 1 cup of coconut milk, 1 cup of whole milk, and 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously to prevent scorching. You’ll want to see small bubbles forming around the edges, which indicates it’s warming up nicely—this should take about 5 minutes. Step 2: Prepare the Cornstarch Mixture While the base heats, take a separate bowl and whisk together 1/2 cup of cornstarch with 1/2 cup of the milk mixture until smooth. Ensure there are no lumps; this step is crucial for achieving the silky texture of your Maja Blanca. Once combined well, you’re ready to move to the next step. Step 3: Thicken the Mixture Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture back into the pot while whisking constantly. Continue stirring for about 5 to 7 minutes until the pudding thickens and is able to coat the back of a spoon. You’ll notice it becoming smoother and more substantial—this is an important part of making a delicious Maja Blanca. Step 4: Incorporate the Corn Kernels Once thickened, gently fold in 1 cup of fresh corn kernels. Keep stirring the mixture for another 2-3 minutes until everything is nicely combined, and you can see the corn nestled in the pudding. The bright yellow of the corn will pop against the creamy backdrop, making your Maja Blanca not only tasty but visually appealing. Step 5: Adjust Sweetness Taste the Maja Blanca mixture and adjust the sweetness if needed. You can add a bit more condensed milk for a sweeter treat or a small pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. This quick adjustment ensures your pudding meets your preferred level of sweetness, so really take a moment to enjoy this step! Step 6: Mold and Chill Pour the thickened mixture into your desired mold or dish, spreading it evenly. Allow it to cool to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, until the Maja Blanca is fully set. You’ll know it’s ready when it holds its shape yet is still creamy. Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Once set, carefully unmold the Maja Blanca onto a serving plate if desired. Cut into squares or serve it in individual bowls. For an extra touch, consider topping it with grated cheese, toasted coconut flakes, or even some extra corn for a delightful serving twist. Dig in and savor the creamy goodness of this beloved Maja Blanca! What to Serve with Silky Filipino Maja Blanca? Imagine the aromas and flavors of the Philippines coming together for a delightful gathering, with every dish complementing the creamy sweetness of your pudding. Fresh Tropical Fruit Salad: The vibrant, juicy textures of mangoes, pineapples, and bananas create a refreshing contrast against the rich Maja Blanca, adding a burst of flavor. Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle these on top for extra crunch and a deep coconut flavor that ties beautifully with the pudding’s creamy base. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses like sharp cheddar or queso blanco to serve alongside, enhancing the salty-sweet dynamic that’s cherished in Filipino desserts. Crispy Pancit: This savory noodle dish brings a delicious contrast in texture and flavor, making it a perfect foil to the velvety pudding. Beverage Pairing – Calamansi Juice: A cool glass of this tangy citrus drink balances the sweetness of Maja Blanca, refreshing your palate with each sip. Mocha or Espresso: The rich, bitter notes of coffee beautifully counter the dessert’s sweetness, making each bite a balanced experience. Chocolate Cake: For those who love indulgence, a slice of moist chocolate cake brings a sweet depth that pairs deliciously with the creamy pudding. Sago’t Gulaman: A traditional Filipino drink made from tapioca pearls and jelly provides a fun, chewy element that can enhance your dessert table. Puto (Steamed Rice Cake): These light, fluffy cakes introduce a delightful texture and mild sweetness that complements the richness of Maja Blanca. Maja Blanca Variations & Substitutions Unleash your creativity and make this Maja Blanca truly yours with some delightful twists that will impress your family and friends! Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute whole milk with additional coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Ube Glow: Add a couple of tablespoons of ube extract for a striking purple hue and a subtle earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with coconut. Mango Magic: Incorporate chopped fresh mango into the pudding mixture for bursts of juicy sweetness, perfect for a tropical twist! Chezy Finish: Top your Maja Blanca with crumbled cheese for that iconic salty-sweet combination that so many find irresistible. It’s a Filipino classic! Sweet Corn Variety: Use grilled corn kernels instead of fresh for a delightful smoky flavor that adds an exciting dimension to the pudding. The charred bits really elevate the taste! Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent touch, drizzle some melted dark chocolate on top just before serving. It creates a rich contrast that will wow your guests. Nutty Crunch: Add toasted nuts—like cashews or almonds—on top for an extra crunch and flavor boost. Each bite will have that perfect balance of textures. Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes if you want to explore a spicy-sweet flavor profile. It’s a surprising and delightful addition! Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own signature Maja Blanca! If you’re interested in more delightful twists, check out our Classic Maja Blanca and learn how to create your own delicious variations. Happy cooking! Expert Tips for Maja Blanca Stir Constantly: To achieve that signature silky texture, make sure to stir continuously while heating the mixture to prevent lumps. Cornstarch Caution: Whisk the cornstarch with a small amount of the milk mixture first to avoid clumping when added to the pot. Taste Testing: Always taste your Maja Blanca before it sets. Adjust sweetness with more condensed milk if needed, as some brands vary. Chill Time: Allow the pudding to chill for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to enhance flavors and achieve the perfect texture. Choose the Right Milk: High-quality coconut milk is key for a rich flavor. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different brands to find your favorite! Make Ahead Options These Maja Blanca treats are a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to streamline meal prep! You can prepare the pudding mixture up to 24 hours in advance; just follow all the steps until the chilling phase. After pouring the mixture into your mold, cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent any skin from forming. When you’re ready to serve, simply refrigerate it overnight or for at least 4 hours to allow it to set properly. Garnish with your favorite toppings, like grated cheese or toasted coconut, just before serving, ensuring your Maja Blanca is just as delicious as it would be if freshly made. Enjoy the time-saving benefits and share a delightful taste of the Philippines with your loved ones! How to Store and Freeze Maja Blanca Fridge: Keep your Maja Blanca in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Placing plastic wrap directly on the pudding surface helps prevent a skin from forming. Freezer: You can freeze Maja Blanca for up to 3 months. Cut into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thawing: To enjoy, transfer the frozen Maja Blanca to the fridge and let it thaw overnight for the best texture. Reheating: Serve chilled or at room temperature; avoid reheating in the microwave as it may alter the smoothness. Enjoy this delicious dessert fresh! Maja Blanca Recipe FAQs How can I tell if my coconut milk is ripe for making Maja Blanca? Absolutely! When selecting coconut milk, look for brands that have a thick consistency and a creamy texture. The coconut milk should be free from any dark spots or separation. If it has a fresh, sweet aroma and a rich, white color, you’re on the right track! How should I store my Maja Blanca once it’s made? To keep your Maja Blanca fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last up to 5 days. For best results, cover the pudding surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming on top. Can I freeze Maja Blanca, and if so, how? Very much! You can freeze Maja Blanca for up to 3 months. For freezing, cut the pudding into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer-safe container to ensure they stay fresh. This makes for an easy pull-out dessert whenever the craving strikes! What should I do if my Maja Blanca turns out lumpy? Don’t fret! If your pudding has lumps, try using an immersion blender to blend it until smooth. If you haven’t fully cooked it, you can continue stirring over low heat until it thickens properly. Adding cornstarch too quickly is a common mistake, so whisk it with a small amount of the liquid first to avoid lumps next time! Are there any dietary considerations for Maja Blanca? Absolutely! Maja Blanca is naturally gluten-free, making it a wonderful treat for those with gluten sensitivities. If you’re serving this dessert to friends with allergies, make sure to check the ingredients in the sweetened condensed milk and coconut milk, as some brands may include allergens. For dairy-free modifications, you can substitute the whole milk with more coconut milk. Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh for my Maja Blanca? Yes, you can! Just ensure the frozen corn is thawed and drained before adding it to the pudding. While fresh corn gives a great texture, thawed frozen corn works perfectly fine for a deliciously sweet addition! Maja Blanca Recipe FAQs Creamy Maja Blanca: A Sweet Slice of Filipino Tradition Maja Blanca is a traditional Filipino coconut pudding that offers creamy texture and delightful sweetness, perfect for gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsChilling Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 35 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: FilipinoCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pudding1 cup coconut milk Aim for high-quality, thick coconut milk for that luscious creamy base.1 cup whole milk Balances the flavors and creaminess; swap with more coconut milk for a dairy-free option.1 cup sweetened condensed milk Brings out the sweetness and richness—adjust based on your taste preference.1/2 cup cornstarch Essential for thickening the pudding to achieve that desired silky texture.1 cup fresh corn kernels Gives delightful sweetness and texture; frozen corn works too, just thaw and drain first.For the Toppings (Optional)to taste cheese A sprinkle of cheese enhances the traditional salty-sweet experience associated with Filipino desserts.to taste toasted coconut flakes Adds a crunchy texture and an extra coconutty flavor layer.to taste additional corn For those who want to amplify the corniness in each blissful bite! Equipment heavy-bottomed potWhiskMixing bowlmeasuring cupsmold or dish Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Maja BlancaIn a heavy-bottomed pot, combine 1 cup of coconut milk, 1 cup of whole milk, and 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously to prevent scorching. You’ll want to see small bubbles forming around the edges, which indicates it’s warming up nicely—this should take about 5 minutes.While the base heats, take a separate bowl and whisk together 1/2 cup of cornstarch with 1/2 cup of the milk mixture until smooth. Ensure there are no lumps.Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture back into the pot while whisking constantly. Continue stirring for about 5 to 7 minutes until the pudding thickens and is able to coat the back of a spoon.Once thickened, gently fold in 1 cup of fresh corn kernels. Keep stirring the mixture for another 2-3 minutes until everything is nicely combined.Taste the Maja Blanca mixture and adjust the sweetness if needed with more condensed milk or a small pinch of salt.Pour the thickened mixture into your desired mold or dish, spreading it evenly. Allow it to cool to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours.Once set, carefully unmold the Maja Blanca onto a serving plate if desired. Cut into squares or serve it in individual bowls. Top with grated cheese, toasted coconut flakes, or extra corn. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 4gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesStir constantly while heating the mixture to prevent lumps. Always taste your Maja Blanca before it sets. Allow it to chill for at least 4 hours to enhance flavors. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
