Tembleque - Puerto Rican Coconut Flan Recipe

Time: 3-5 Hours
Servings: 6-8 Servings
By Chef Jesse Muñoz

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Indulge in the rich flavors of Puerto Rico with the luscious and creamy delight known as Tembleque. This traditional coconut pudding is a staple of Puerto Rican cuisine, capturing the essence of the island’s tropical charm. With its velvety texture and delicate coconut undertones, Tembleque is a dessert that will transport your taste buds to the shores of Puerto Rico with every spoonful.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup Sugar
  • ½ cup Cornstarch
  • ¼ teaspoon Salt
  • 4 cups Coconut Milk
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  • 1 pinch Cinnamon, Ground
  • 1 tablespoon Shredded Coconut (for garnish)
  • 1 pinch Cinnamon, Ground (for garnish)

Preparation

Method of Preparation:

  1. In a saucepan, whisk together the cornstarch, sugar, and salt until well combined. This will ensure a smooth and even texture for your Tembleque.
  2. In a saucepan, pour in the coconut milk and heat it over medium-low heat until it’s warm, but not boiling. Stir occasionally to prevent scalding.
  3. Turn the burner to medium heat.
  4. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of cinnamon to infuse the pudding with its delightful aroma.
  5. Gradually whisk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Once the mixture has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat.
  7. Carefully pour the coconut pudding mixture into individual serving dishes or a larger serving dish.
  8. Shake the mold(s) and lightly drop them on the counter to release any air bubbles and allow the mixture to set evenly.
  9. Allow the Tembleque to cool down to room temperature for 2 hours. Then, cover it with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or until the pudding sets and becomes firm.
  10. Just before serving, sprinkle a generous amount of ground cinnamon on top of the Tembleque. The cinnamon not only adds a burst of flavor but also enhances the visual appeal of the dessert.
  11. Serve your Tembleque chilled and enjoy the velvety goodness that’s the hallmark of this traditional Puerto Rican delicacy.

With its silky texture, tropical coconut flavor, and a touch of warm cinnamon, Tembleque is more than just a dessert—it’s a journey to the heart of Puerto Rican culture. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with loved ones, this coconut pudding is a sweet reminder of the island’s culinary heritage and the joy of savoring life’s simple pleasures.

This recipe and more can be found on https://vallartasupermarkets.com/en/recipes.