Ambrosia Parfaits

Hands on time : ... 35 minutes ... Total time : ... 4 hours ... Makes 4 to 6 servings

1/4 ........................cup granulated sugar

1/4 ........................cup cornstarch

2 ...........................cups half-and-half

4 ...........................egg yolks

1 ...........................(6-oz) package frozen grated coconut , thawed

1 ...........................(8 -1/2-oz) can crushed pineapple , drained

1 ............................teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 .........................teaspoon coconut extract

3 ............................large navel oranges , peeled and sectioned

2 ............................large ruby-red grapefruit , peeled and sectiioned

1/2 .........................cup whipping cream

2 ............................Tablespoons powdered sugar

GARNISHES : toasted sweetened flaked coconut

1) Combine granulated sugar and coenstarch in a heavy saucepan ; gradually whisk in half-and-half and egg yolks . Bring to a boil over medium heat , whisking constantly ; boil 1 minute . Remove mixture from heat ; stir in coconut and next 3 ingredients . Cover pudding with plastic wrap ; place plastic wrap directly on surface to prevent a film from forming . Chill 4 hourd ot overnight .

2) Layer fruit sections and pudding in stemmed glasses .

3) Beat whipping cream at high speed with electric mixer until foamy ; gradually add powdered sugar , beating until solf pesaks form .

4) Dollop parfaits with whipped cream . Garnish , if desired . Chill until ready to serve .

Heart healthy and so good .