If you’re looking for a dessert that feels both tropical and comforting, Purple Sweet Potato Pie with Coconut Topping (Haupia) is a beautiful recipe to try. This Hawaiian-inspired pie combines a naturally vibrant purple filling made from sweet potatoes with a creamy coconut layer that adds elegance and balance.
The deep purple color makes this pie visually stunning, while the silky texture and gentle coconut flavor create a dessert that feels refined yet simple to prepare at home. It’s perfect for holidays, gatherings, or anyone who loves unique desserts with natural ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Pie
Purple sweet potatoes bring a slightly nutty, floral sweetness that pairs perfectly with coconut milk. Unlike traditional sweet potato pies, this version feels lighter and more tropical.
What makes this dessert special is its layered texture:
- A flaky pie crust
- A smooth and creamy purple sweet potato filling
- A soft coconut haupia topping
Each bite is rich but balanced, combining sweetness, creaminess, and a delicate coconut aroma.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
- 1 prepared pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- Pie weights or dried beans for blind baking
For the Purple Sweet Potato Filling
- 2 cups cooked and mashed purple sweet potatoes
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Coconut Haupia Topping
- 1 can full-fat coconut milk
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- Pinch of salt
Optional Garnish
- Toasted coconut flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the pie crust into a pie dish and prick the bottom lightly with a fork. Line it with parchment paper and add pie weights or dried beans.
Bake for about 12–15 minutes until lightly golden. Remove the weights and let the crust cool slightly.
Step 2: Cook and Mash the Sweet Potatoes
If your purple sweet potatoes are raw, bake or steam them until very soft. Once cooled, peel and mash them until smooth. You should have a creamy, lump-free texture.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine:
- Mashed purple sweet potatoes
- Coconut milk
- Evaporated milk
- Sugar
- Eggs
- Melted butter
- Vanilla extract
- Salt
Whisk until the mixture becomes smooth and evenly colored.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust and smooth the surface.
Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly soft. The filling will firm up more as it cools.
Remove from the oven and allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature.
Step 5: Prepare the Haupia Coconut Topping
In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat gently over medium heat.
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water until smooth, then slowly add it to the coconut milk while stirring constantly.
Continue cooking until the mixture thickens into a soft custard. Remove from heat.
Step 6: Assemble the Pie
Once the purple sweet potato layer has fully cooled, gently pour the coconut haupia mixture over the top.
Spread evenly using a spatula and allow the pie to chill in the refrigerator for at least 3–4 hours until the topping sets.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for extra texture and flavor if desired.
Slice with a clean sharp knife to reveal the beautiful contrast between the purple filling and the creamy white coconut layer.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer and smoother haupia topping.
- Let the pie cool completely before adding the coconut layer to prevent mixing of layers.
- Refrigerating the pie overnight makes slicing easier and improves texture.
Flavor and Texture Notes
This pie has a naturally sweet flavor that is not overpowering. The purple sweet potato filling is creamy and slightly earthy, while the haupia topping adds a light coconut finish that balances the richness of the base.
The contrast between the vibrant purple layer and the white coconut topping also makes it a beautiful centerpiece dessert.
Final Thoughts
Purple Sweet Potato Pie with Coconut Topping (Haupia) is a dessert that blends comfort baking with tropical inspiration. It’s elegant, visually striking, and surprisingly simple to make at home. Whether you prepare it for a festive occasion or just to try something new, this pie offers a unique twist on classic sweet potato desserts while celebrating the delicate flavors of coconut and island-style baking.