Directions

Shortbread Crust

1. Grease an 8” x 12” baking pan (up to 4” high) and set aside. Preheat oven to 350F.

2. Cream together the butter and sugar. Add vanilla and mix to combine.

3. Add the flour little at a time, mixing with hands until a soft but dry dough is formed. If the dough is too dry, add water 1 Tbsp at a time to create a soft, semi crumbly dough. Turn into the baking sheet and then flatten to create an even layer on the bottom about ¼” – ½” high.

4. Bake 9-11 minutes or until the top is lightly browned and a toothpick inserted comes out dry. Remove and set aside.

ʻUlu Filling Layer

1. Preheat oven to 375F. Warm ‘ulu in a steamer, or microwave with some water in 2 minute increments until soft.

2. In a large bowl, mash ‘ulu so it's smooth (think mashed potatoes). Mix in cream cheese until smooth and combined.

3. Add spices, vanilla, and evaporated milk and mix well. Taste and add more spices if you want it stronger. Add in the eggs and mix until incorporated, then pour over crust.

4. Bake 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Remove from oven. If the top has slightly risen in the center, feel free to press down and flatten with a small cutting board to even the surface.

Haupia Layer

1. In a medium sauce pot, combine coconut milk, sugar, and first ½ cup of water and bring to a light boil. Continue to stir until boiling so the mixture doesn’t burn or curdle.

2. Once boiling, mix the other ½ cup of water with cornstarch in a small bowl to form a slurry, and add to the mixture using a whisk. Stir until a loose, smooth and thick haupia mix forms. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

3. To test, scoop a spoonful into a small bowl and refrigerate to make sure that your haupia becomes firm/jelled once cooled.

4. Remix your haupia in the pot to make smooth any lumps, then pour over the ‘ulu layer. Shake the pan a little to disperse haupia evenly, refrigerate uncovered and chill until the haupia layer is solid (or overnight).

5. Cut and serve in desired portions. It can be drizzled with chocolate if desired for an extra rich touch.