What to Make with Coconut Cream Dessert?

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Coconut cream is a versatile ingredient that adds richness, creaminess, and a delightful tropical flavor to a variety of desserts. Whether you are vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply a fan of coconut, incorporating coconut cream into your dessert repertoire opens up a world of culinary possibilities. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what you can make with coconut cream, covering a range of recipes, tips, and tricks to ensure your desserts are both delicious and visually appealing.

What is Coconut Cream?

Understanding Coconut Cream

Coconut cream is a thick, creamy product made from the flesh of mature coconuts. It is higher in fat content than coconut milk, which makes it an excellent substitute for heavy cream in many recipes. The process of making coconut cream involves grating fresh coconut meat and simmering it with water, then straining the mixture to separate the liquid from the solids.

Nutritional Benefits of Coconut Cream

Coconut cream is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Some of its benefits include:

Healthy Fats: Coconut cream is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easily digestible and can provide a quick source of energy.

Vitamins and Minerals: It contains essential vitamins such as E, C, and several B vitamins, along with minerals like magnesium, potassium, and iron.

Dairy Alternative: Coconut cream is a great alternative for those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet, allowing them to enjoy creamy desserts without dairy.

Creative Desserts with Coconut Cream

Coconut cream can be used in a variety of dessert recipes, ranging from cakes and pies to puddings and mousses. Below are some delightful dessert ideas that showcase the versatility of coconut cream.

1. Coconut Cream Pie

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ⅓ cup sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut cream
• 1 cup coconut milk
• ¾ cup sugar
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup shredded coconut, toasted

For the Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden. Let cool.

Make the Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together coconut cream, coconut milk, sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and toasted coconut.

Assemble the Pie: Pour the filling into the cooled crust. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Prepare the Topping: In a mixing bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Spread over the chilled pie and garnish with additional toasted coconut. Serve chilled.

2. Coconut Cream Pudding

Ingredients

• 2 cups coconut milk
• 1 cup coconut cream
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1/3 cup cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup shredded coconut (optional)

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together coconut milk, coconut cream, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and begins to boil. This should take about 5-10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and shredded coconut if using.
4. Pour into individual serving dishes and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

3. Vegan Coconut Cream Mousse

Ingredients

• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut cream, chilled
• ¼ cup maple syrup or agave nectar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt
• Fresh berries for topping

Instructions

1. Open the chilled coconut cream can and scoop out the solid cream into a mixing bowl (leave the liquid behind).
2. Using a hand mixer, beat the coconut cream until fluffy.
3. Add maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Continue to beat until well combined and fluffy.
4. Spoon the mousse into serving glasses and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
5. Serve topped with fresh berries.

4. Coconut Cream Flan

Ingredients

For the Caramel:

• 1 cup sugar
• ¼ cup water

For the Flan:

• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut cream
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Caramel: In a saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then let it boil without stirring until it turns a golden color. Quickly pour the caramel into a round flan mold, tilting to coat the bottom. Set aside.

Make the Flan: In a blender, combine coconut cream, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.

Pour the Mixture: Carefully pour the flan mixture over the caramel in the mold.

Bake the Flan: Place the mold in a larger baking dish filled with water (water bath). Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes or until set.

Cool and Serve: Let cool before refrigerating for at least 4 hours. To serve, invert the flan onto a plate.

5. Coconut Cream Popsicles

Ingredients

• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut cream
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
• 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup
• A pinch of salt

Instructions

1. In a blender, combine coconut cream, coconut milk, pineapple chunks, honey, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds and insert sticks.
3. Freeze for at least 4-6 hours or until completely solid.
4. To release the popsicles, run warm water over the outside of the molds for a few seconds. Enjoy!

6. Coconut Cream Rice Pudding

Ingredients

• 1 cup arborio rice
• 4 cups coconut milk
• 1 cup coconut cream
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt
• Ground cinnamon for serving

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, combine rice, coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat until the mixture simmers.
2. Reduce heat and cook, stirring frequently, until the rice is tender and creamy (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Stir in coconut cream and vanilla extract. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Serve warm, sprinkled with ground cinnamon.

7. Coconut Cream Fruit Salad

Ingredients

• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut cream
• 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Assorted fresh fruits (e.g., mango, pineapple, berries, bananas)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut cream, honey, and vanilla extract.
2. In a large bowl, combine assorted fresh fruits.
3. Drizzle the coconut cream mixture over the fruit and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately as a refreshing dessert.

See Also: What to Make with Cottage Cheese Dessert: A Comprehensive Guide

8. Coconut Cream Shortcakes

Ingredients

For the Shortcakes:

• • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup cold butter, cubed
  • 1 cup coconut cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • Fresh strawberries, sliced

Instructions

Prepare the Shortcakes: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in coconut cream and vanilla until just combined.

Bake the Shortcakes: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden. Let cool.

Prepare the Topping: In a mixing bowl, whip heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.

Assemble the Shortcakes: Slice the shortcakes in half and layer with whipped cream and sliced strawberries. Top with the other half and serve.

9. Coconut Cream Brownies

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

• • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cocoa powder
  • A pinch of salt

For the Coconut Cream Topping:

• • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut cream
  • 1 cup shredded coconut
  • ½ cup powdered sugar

Instructions

Make the Brownies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, melt butter and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Add flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Pour into a greased 9×9-inch baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes.

Prepare the Topping: In a bowl, mix coconut cream, shredded coconut, and powdered sugar until smooth.

Assemble: Once the brownies have cooled, spread the coconut cream topping over the brownies. Cut into squares and serve.

10. Coconut Cream Chocolate Truffles

Ingredients

• 1 cup dark chocolate chips
• ½ cup coconut cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Unsweetened cocoa powder for coating

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, heat coconut cream until just simmering. Pour over chocolate chips in a bowl and let sit for a minute. Stir until smooth and combined.
2. Stir in vanilla extract. Refrigerate the mixture until firm (about 2 hours).
3. Once firm, scoop out small amounts and roll into balls. Roll the truffles in cocoa powder to coat.
4. Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Tips for Using Coconut Cream in Desserts

Chilling: For best results, chill your coconut cream before using it in recipes that require whipping or blending.

Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover coconut cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Substitutions: Coconut cream can often be substituted for heavy cream in recipes, making it a versatile option for both vegan and non-vegan desserts.

Experiment: Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding spices, extracts, or citrus zest to your coconut cream desserts.

Conclusion

Coconut cream is a delightful ingredient that can elevate your dessert creations, offering a creamy texture and tropical flavor that is hard to resist. From pies and puddings to mousse and truffles, the recipes highlighted in this guide provide a variety of delicious options for every palate. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, using coconut cream in your desserts is sure to impress and satisfy. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to whip up some amazing coconut cream desserts!

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