Name: Coconut Cream Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch); 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 large egg yolks; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe·Leave a Review

Coconut cream pie – where velvety richness meets tropical sunshine, and your taste buds dance like nobody’s watching! Picture this: a flaky crust cradling a luscious coconut filling that’s so creamy it could give any cloud a run for its money. The aroma of toasted coconut wafts through the air as you take that first heavenly bite, sending you to a blissful paradise. It’s a dessert that whispers sweet nothings to your senses, making it the perfect treat for any occasion – or just an ordinary Tuesday when you want to feel fancy.

Let me take you back to my childhood, where every summer was punctuated by my grandmother’s legendary coconut cream pie. She’d whip it up without missing a beat, her kitchen transforming into a tropical haven filled with laughter and the promise of deliciousness. This coconut cream pie isn’t just a recipe; it’s a slice of nostalgia that brings smiles and happy hearts at family gatherings, potlucks, or simply during those moments when life demands something extraordinary.

Why You'll Love This coconut cream pie

This incredible coconut cream pie transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious coconut cream pie:

Pie Crust: Use a pre-made crust for convenience or whip up your own from scratch for that homemade touch.
Sweetened Flaked Coconut: Choose unsweetened if you’re aiming for less sugar; toasted flakes add extra flavor!
Granulated Sugar: This will sweeten the filling just right; adjust based on your sweetness preference.
Milk: Whole milk provides the best creaminess, but feel free to substitute with almond or coconut milk if desired.
Heavy Cream: Essential for achieving that decadent texture in the filling; don’t skimp on this one!
Egg Yolks: These enrich the custard base and help thicken your filling perfectly.
Vanilla Extract: A splash adds depth and warmth to the overall flavor profile of the pie.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious coconut cream pie:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using a store-bought crust, place it in a pie pan and bake according to package instructions until golden brown.

Step 2: Toast the Coconut

Spread sweetened flaked coconut evenly on a baking sheet. Bake in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until lightly golden. Keep an eye on it – burnt coconut isn’t what we’re going for here!

Step 3: Prepare the Custard

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and half of your toasted coconut. Stir occasionally until hot but not boiling.

Step 4: Mix Egg Yolks

In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract. Gradually pour in some of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly to temper them (this prevents scrambled eggs!).

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with remaining milk mixture. Cook over low heat while stirring continuously until thickened (about 10 minutes). It should coat the back of a spoon.

Step 6: Assemble Your Pie

Pour the custard filling into your pre-baked crust and sprinkle with remaining toasted coconut on top. Let it cool at room temperature before refrigerating until set (at least two hours).

Transfer to plates and garnish with whipped cream and an extra sprinkle of toasted coconut for the perfect finishing touch!

Now that you have all these steps laid out, get ready to impress yourself (and anyone lucky enough to share this treat with you)! Whether you’re celebrating beachy vibes or just indulging in some well-deserved dessert therapy after a long week—this delightful coconut cream pie has got your back!

You Must Know About coconut cream pie

This showstopping coconut cream pie delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve the ultimate coconut cream pie, start by making the crust first and pre-baking it until golden brown. While it cools, whip up the custard filling on the stovetop. Let it cool slightly before pouring it into the crust to set perfectly.

Flavor Your Way

Want to jazz up your coconut cream pie? Consider swapping regular milk for coconut milk for a richer flavor or adding a splash of vanilla extract to elevate the custard’s taste. Top with toasted coconut flakes for a delightful crunch!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover coconut cream pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’re reheating, do so gently in the microwave or enjoy it cold—trust me, it’s delicious either way!

Chef's Helpful Tips for coconut cream pie

This professional-quality coconut cream pie relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

The first time I made this coconut cream pie, my friends devoured it so quickly that I barely got a slice! Their delighted faces were priceless—definitely a moment I’ll cherish forever!

FAQs

What is coconut cream pie?

Coconut cream pie is a delightful dessert made with a rich, creamy filling infused with coconut flavor. Typically, this pie features a buttery crust filled with a luscious custard made from coconut milk, sugar, and eggs. Topped with whipped cream and shredded coconut, it provides a tropical twist to traditional pies. This dessert is loved for its smooth texture and sweet flavor, making it a favorite at gatherings and celebrations.

How do I make coconut cream pie from scratch?

To make coconut cream pie from scratch, start by preparing the crust using flour, butter, and sugar. Bake until golden brown. For the filling, combine coconut milk, sugar, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Stir until thickened, then mix in vanilla extract and shredded coconut. Pour the filling into the cooled crust and chill until set. Top with whipped cream before serving for an irresistible treat that everyone will love.

Can I use fresh coconut in my coconut cream pie?

Yes, you can use fresh coconut in your coconut cream pie! Freshly grated coconut adds a wonderful texture and flavor to the dessert. Simply toast the fresh coconut for enhanced taste before incorporating it into your filling or using it as a topping. This addition elevates your pie’s freshness while providing an authentic tropical experience that complements the creamy filling beautifully.

How long can I store leftover coconut cream pie?

Leftover coconut cream pie can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. To maintain its freshness, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you notice any separation of the filling or if it becomes watery over time, it’s best to consume it sooner rather than later. Enjoying leftovers within this timeframe ensures you savor every bite of this delicious dessert.

Conclusion

Coconut cream pie is a delightful treat that combines creamy custard with a buttery crust and whipped topping. With its tropical flavors and smooth texture, it’s perfect for any occasion. Making this dessert from scratch allows you to customize the ingredients to suit your tastes. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this classic dessert offers indulgence in every bite. Don’t miss out on savoring your very own homemade coconut cream pie!