Coconut Cream Pie Recipe

Heavenly Coconut Cream Pie Recipe: A Sweet Slice of Paradise

Creamy and luscious coconut cream pie brings tropical dreams right to your dessert plate.

Sweet whispers of coconut dance through every delectable slice.

Layers of silky filling promise pure indulgence for anyone seeking comfort in a classic treat.

Bakers of all skill levels can master this delightful creation with minimal effort.

Crisp graham cracker crust cradles a cloud-like filling that melts effortlessly on your tongue.

Fragrant toasted coconut sprinkled across the top adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal.

Each forkful promises a mini vacation to paradise without leaving your kitchen.

You’ll fall in love with this irresistible pie that turns ordinary moments into something magical.

Ingredients to Prepare a Perfect Coconut Cream Pie

For the Base:
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: A rich, sweet dairy product that provides creamy thickness and sweetness to the pie filling.
  • Egg Yolks: They help thicken the custard and create a smooth, luxurious texture in the pie.
For the Flavor and Texture:
  • Shredded Coconut: Fresh coconut that adds a tropical flavor and pleasant chewy texture to the pie.
For the Toppings and Finishing:
  • Egg Whites, Sugar: These ingredients combine to create a fluffy, golden-brown meringue topping that adds a light and airy finish to the pie.
  • Pie Crusts: Pre-baked shells that serve as the foundation for holding the creamy coconut filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Coconut Cream Pie Baking

Step 1: Whip Up the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, blend together smooth cream, rich milk, granulated sugar, soft flour, and beaten eggs until the mixture becomes silky and free of lumps. Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined for a velvety texture.

  • cream
  • milk
  • sugar
  • flour
  • eggs

Whisk consistently to create a perfectly smooth consistency.

Step 2: Transform the Mixture

Transfer the creamy blend to a heavy-bottomed saucepan.

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. The mixture will gradually thicken and become pudding-like, developing a luxurious, glossy appearance.

Step 3: Infuse with Tropical Flavor

Remove the heated mixture from the stove and fold in freshly shredded coconut. The coconut will add delightful texture and intense tropical flavor to the pie filling.

Mix gently but thoroughly to distribute the coconut evenly.

Step 4: Prepare the Pie Crust

Select a pre-baked graham cracker or traditional pastry pie shell.

Carefully pour the warm coconut cream filling into the crust, ensuring an even distribution.

Step 5: Create Fluffy Meringue Topping

Whip egg whites until they form stiff, glossy peaks.

Gradually add powdered sugar while continuing to beat, creating a light and airy meringue topping.

Step 6: Finish and Brown

Spread the meringue over the pie filling, creating decorative peaks and swirls.

Sprinkle additional shredded coconut on top for extra crunch and visual appeal.

Step 7: Final Baking

Place the pie in a preheated oven at 375°F.

Bake until the meringue turns a beautiful golden brown, approximately 10-15 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Step 8: Chill and Serve

Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This helps the filling set and enhances the flavor.

Slice and serve chilled for a refreshing dessert.

Helpful Tips to Make the Creamiest Coconut Pie

  • Toast coconut before adding to the filling for a deeper, nuttier flavor that enhances the overall taste.
  • Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer, creamier texture that creates a more indulgent pie experience.
  • Watch the microwave carefully to prevent scorching by stirring frequently during the cooking process.
  • For a gluten-free version, swap traditional pie crust with a nut-based or gluten-free graham cracker crust.
  • Make meringue peaks stand tall by ensuring egg whites are at room temperature and adding sugar gradually while whipping.

Delicious Twists to Try on Traditional Coconut Cream Pie

  • Tropical Fruit Fusion Pie: Replace shredded coconut with diced pineapple and mango for a vibrant, fruity version.
  • Dairy-Free Coconut Cream Pie: Swap regular milk with almond milk and use coconut cream instead of dairy cream for a vegan-friendly option.
  • Chocolate Coconut Dream Pie: Add cocoa powder to the filling and sprinkle dark chocolate shavings on top for a rich, decadent variation.
  • Nutty Coconut Crunch Pie: Mix in chopped macadamia or almonds for extra texture and a nutty flavor profile.

Great Accompaniments to Serve With Coconut Cream Pie

  • Tropical Cocktail Companion: Craft a zesty pineapple mojito that complements the pie's creamy coconut flavor, cutting through the richness with refreshing citrus notes and light rum undertones.
  • Contrasting Coffee Match: Brew a dark roast espresso or Colombian coffee to balance the sweet meringue, creating a robust counterpoint that enhances the dessert's delicate coconut profile.
  • Fruity Wine Selection: Choose a crisp Riesling or Gewürztraminer with subtle sweet hints that dance alongside the pie's creamy texture, providing a light and elegant accompaniment to each heavenly bite.

How to Store Your Coconut Cream Pie for Freshness

Store covered pie in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out and absorbing other food odors.

Carefully wrap the pie in two layers of plastic wrap, then add a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for maximum 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Keep pie at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth. Always cover with a pie dome or loose plastic wrap.

Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. For a crisp meringue, use the oven at 325F for 5-7 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

FAQs

  • What ingredients make this coconut cream pie unique?

The combination of shredded coconut and microwave cooking method creates a quick, easy dessert with intense coconut flavor and smooth texture.

  • Can I use low-fat ingredients in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with low-fat milk or use reduced-fat coconut to lower the calorie content without significantly changing the pie’s overall taste.

  • Is microwaving safe for making pie filling?

Absolutely! Microwaving is a quick and efficient method that helps evenly heat ingredients and reduces the risk of scorching compared to traditional stovetop cooking.

  • How do I know when the filling is properly thickened?

The filling is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and holds its shape without being too runny, typically after 7-8 total minutes of microwaving and stirring.

Why Coconut Cream Pie Is a Classic Favorite Dessert

  • Simplify Cooking: Microwave method transforms traditional pie-making into a quick, stress-free process that eliminates complex steps and multiple bowls.
  • Versatile Serving: Perfect for casual family gatherings, potlucks, or dessert nights, this recipe creates two pies simultaneously, making it ideal for sharing or storing.
  • Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows personalization by adjusting coconut quantity, meringue thickness, or even experimenting with different pie crust types to match personal preferences.
  • Beginner-Friendly Technique: Clear microwave instructions and straightforward ingredients make this recipe accessible for novice bakers, ensuring successful results without professional baking skills.
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Coconut Cream Pie Recipe

Coconut Cream Pie Recipe


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4.7 from 12 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy coconut cream pie delivers a tropical paradise of sweet, silky indulgence straight from grandmother’s kitchen. Rich coconut custard nestled in a buttery crust promises delightful comfort with each refreshing, dreamy bite you’ll savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups sugar
  • 4 egg yolks
  • 1 3/4 cups shredded coconut
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) evaporated milk
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) water

Baking Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (60 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons (28 grams) butter

Flavoring Ingredients:

  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Blend sugar, cornstarch, salt, and milk in a microwave-safe container, whisking until smooth and free of lumps.
  2. Heat the mixture in the microwave for 4 minutes, pausing to stir every minute to prevent scorching and ensure even cooking.
  3. Remove the mixture and vigorously whisk to eliminate any potential clumps, creating a uniform custard base.
  4. Fold shredded coconut into the warm custard, distributing it evenly throughout the mixture.
  5. Return the coconut-infused custard to the microwave and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring intermittently.
  6. After microwaving, stir the filling thoroughly to achieve a consistent texture and prevent separation.
  7. Transfer the coconut cream filling into pre-baked pie shells, spreading it smoothly and evenly.
  8. Prepare a fluffy meringue topping, carefully spreading it across the entire surface of the pie filling.
  9. Sprinkle additional shredded coconut over the meringue for added texture and visual appeal.
  10. Bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, watching carefully until the meringue turns a delicate golden brown and becomes lightly toasted.

Notes

  • Swap traditional dairy for coconut milk or almond milk to create a dairy-free version that’s just as creamy and delicious.
  • Toast the shredded coconut before adding to the filling for an extra depth of nutty, caramelized flavor that elevates the entire pie.
  • Use a kitchen torch instead of oven-baking for more controlled and precise meringue browning, giving you a perfectly golden and evenly toasted topping.
  • Chill the pie for at least 2 hours before serving to help the filling set completely and enhance the overall texture and flavor profile.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 371
  • Sugar: 39 g
  • Sodium: 58 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 56 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
Ethan Caldwell

Ethan Caldwell

Founder & Culinary Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-table cooking, Seasonal recipe creation, Culinary storytelling, Food photography and styling​

Education

The Chef’s Academy (Indianapolis, IN)

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Focused on sustainable cooking practices, regional American cuisine, and recipe development.​

Ethan didn’t just fall in love with food, he grew into it, surrounded by fields, farmers’ markets, and family meals that told a story.
After sharpening his skills at The Chef’s Academy, he took his passion straight into the farm-to-table movement, working side-by-side with local growers and seasonal flavors.
He believes every recipe should feel like a walk through a summer market: colorful, fresh, and full of possibility.
Outside the kitchen, Ethan’s idea of a perfect day is hiking mountain trails, digging into heirloom vegetables, and hosting casual dinners where seconds are always encouraged.

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