Creamy Coconut Delight is a luscious, tropical dessert that combines the richness of coconut milk with the silkiness of eggs and the sweetness of condensed milk. Baked gently in a water bath, it forms a soft, pudding-like texture with a golden top and a creamy interior. This dessert is perfect for warm evenings, festive gatherings, or anytime you crave a taste of the tropics. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a show-stopping treat that’s both elegant and comforting.
Ingredients:
Only 6 simple ingredients are needed:
- 1 can (400 ml) coconut milk
- 1 can (395 g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup desiccated coconut
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional: A pinch of salt or a dash of lime zest for added brightness.
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).
- Grease a 9-inch round or square baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Prepare a larger roasting pan for a water bath (bain-marie) by filling it halfway with hot water.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition to fully incorporate.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and desiccated coconut. If using lime zest or salt, add it now.
3. Strain for Smoothness (Optional)
- For an ultra-smooth texture, strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any egg solids or coconut clumps. This step is optional but recommended for a silky finish.
4. Bake in a Water Bath
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Place the dish inside the larger roasting pan filled with hot water.
- Carefully transfer to the oven and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the center is just set and a knife inserted comes out mostly clean.
5. Cool and Chill
- Remove the dish from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the dessert to firm up and develop its creamy texture.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Slice into squares or scoop into bowls.
- Garnish with toasted coconut flakes, fresh mango slices, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flair.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled for a refreshing treat.
- Pair with tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, or passionfruit.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Tips & Variations:
- Make it dairy-free: Use almond milk or oat milk in place of whole milk.
- Add texture: Mix in chopped nuts like macadamias or almonds for crunch.
- Infuse flavor: Steep a pandan leaf or a cinnamon stick in the milk mixture before baking for a unique twist.
Final Thoughts:
This Creamy Coconut Delight is a celebration of tropical simplicity. It’s rich, smooth, and subtly sweet, with the unmistakable flavor of coconut shining through. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself, this dessert is sure to impress with its elegance and ease. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable—add fruit, spices, or even chocolate to make it your own.
Would you like a no-bake coconut dessert next? Or maybe a coconut tart with a crunchy crust?