Maja Blanca is a creamy and delicious Filipino dessert made with coconut milk, cornstarch, and sweet corn kernels. It is a favorite treat during special occasions and celebrations.
If you want to learn how to prepare this delightful dessert, follow the step-by-step guide below.
Ingredients:
For the Maja Blanca:.
- 4 cups coconut milk
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup condensed milk
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- ¾ cup white sugar
- 1 cup sweet corn kernels
- ½ cup toasted grated coconut (for topping)
For the Latik:.
- 1 can coconut cream
Step 1: Prepare the Latik (Coconut Caramel)
Before starting with the Maja Blanca, you need to make the Latik first. Latik is made by simmering coconut cream until the oil separates and the solids turn into golden brown caramel. Follow these steps to make the Latik:.
- Open the can of coconut cream and transfer its contents into a saucepan.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and let it simmer.
- Stir the coconut cream occasionally to prevent it from burning.
- Continue cooking until the oil separates and the coconut cream solids turn into golden brown caramel. This process usually takes around 15-20 minutes.
- Once done, remove the saucepan from heat and strain the caramelized coconut cream solids. Set them aside to cool. These caramelized solids are called Latik, and they serve as a delicious topping for your Maja Blanca.
Step 2: Prepare the Maja Blanca
Now that you have your Latik ready, it’s time to make the Maja Blanca. Follow these steps:.
- In a large saucepan, combine the coconut milk and cornstarch. Mix them well until the cornstarch is dissolved.
- Turn on the heat to medium and continuously stir the mixture to avoid lumps.
- Add the condensed milk, evaporated milk, and sugar to the saucepan. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
- Continue cooking and stirring the mixture until it thickens. This process usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
- Once the mixture has thickened, add the sweet corn kernels. Stir them into the mixture and let it cook for another 5 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to cool down for a few minutes.
- Prepare a rectangular or square baking dish by greasing it lightly with oil or lining it with banana leaves for an authentic touch.
- Pour the Maja Blanca mixture into the prepared baking dish, and use a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Let the Maja Blanca cool completely at room temperature. Alternatively, you can refrigerate it for a few hours until it sets.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
Once the Maja Blanca has completely set, it’s time to serve and enjoy this delectable Filipino dessert.
- Sprinkle the prepared Latik (coconut caramel) evenly on top of the Maja Blanca.
- For additional texture and flavor, you can also sprinkle some toasted grated coconut on top.
- Cut the Maja Blanca into squares or diamond shapes, and carefully remove them from the baking dish.
- Serve the Maja Blanca pieces on a platter or plate.
Maja Blanca is best enjoyed chilled, making it a perfect dessert for hot summer days. Its creamy and coconutty flavors, combined with the sweetness of corn kernels, create a delightful treat that will surely satisfy your cravings.