Canjica – Brazilian Corn Pudding with Coconut: The Original Recipe

Canjica is Brazil’s answer to rice pudding – creamy, sweet, with coconut and cinnamon. This traditional dessert originates from the Festa Junina, the Brazilian midsummer festival, and warms the soul like no other. And the best part: it is easier to prepare than it sounds.

What is Canjica?

Canjica (also known as Mugunzá in northeastern Brazil) is a sweet corn porridge made from white hominy corn simmered in coconut milk and sweetened condensed milk. The dish is firmly rooted in the Festa Junina – the colorful folk festival celebrated throughout Brazil in June and July. Served warm and sprinkled with cinnamon, Canjica is pure comfort.

Ingredients for 4–6 servings

• 500 g white Canjica corn (dried hominy)
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk (approx. 370–395 g)
• 400 ml coconut milk
• 500 ml whole milk
• 3 tbsp sugar (to taste)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 cloves
• Ground cinnamon for sprinkling
• Optional: 100 g peanuts, roasted and chopped

Preparation

1. Soaking: Soak the Canjica corn in plenty of water overnight.
2. Cooking: Drain the water, cover the corn with fresh water, and boil for about 1–1.5 hours until soft (or 30 minutes in a pressure cooker). The corn should be tender but still hold its shape.
3. Refining: Drain the water. Add the condensed milk, coconut milk, whole milk, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and sugar.
4. Simmering: Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 20–30 minutes until the mixture becomes creamy.
5. Serving: Remove the cinnamon sticks and cloves. Pour into small bowls while warm and sprinkle with ground cinnamon. Optionally, top with roasted peanuts.

Tips

• The longer the Canjica simmers, the creamier it becomes – patience pays off.
• If you prefer it less sweet, omit the sugar – the condensed milk already provides plenty of sweetness.
• Canjica also tastes excellent cold from the fridge – simply stir in a little milk if it gets too thick.
• Keeps in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Canjica and the Festa Junina

The Festa Junina is one of Brazil's biggest folk festivals – featuring music, dancing, colorful costumes, and plenty of traditional food. Along with Canjica, Paçoca and Curau are classics of the festival. If you are looking for Brazilian ingredients for authentic recipes, you will find what you need in our selection of Brazilian food products.

Cover image: AI-generated image for illustration purposes.