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Coconut Cream Pie Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 74 reviews

This classic Coconut Cream Pie features a rich, creamy coconut custard filling nestled in a flaky baked pie crust, topped with fluffy whipped cream and toasted coconut for a delightful texture and flavor contrast. Perfect for coconut lovers wanting a luscious, indulgent dessert with a tropical twist.

Ingredients

Scale

Pie Filling

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 5 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 3/4 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups sweetened flaked or shredded coconut, toasted (divided)
  • 1 9-inch baked pie crust

Whipped Cream Topping

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare dry ingredients: In a medium-sized heavy saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar and cornstarch until well combined.
  2. Combine milk and egg yolks: In a large bowl, whisk the whole milk and egg yolks thoroughly. Gradually pour this mixture into the saucepan over the dry ingredients, whisking continuously to combine everything evenly.
  3. Cook the custard: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, whisking constantly to prevent lumps, until it thickens and nearly reaches a boil, about 8 minutes. Once thickened, immediately remove from heat to avoid curdling.
  4. Mix in flavorings and coconut: Stir in the unsalted butter, vanilla extract, salt, and 1 3/4 cups of the toasted coconut until everything is fully incorporated and smooth.
  5. Fill the pie crust: Pour the warm custard into the pre-baked 9-inch pie crust. Cover the surface with plastic wrap directly touching the custard to prevent skin formation. Let it cool on a wire rack for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate until the filling is fully set.
  6. Prepare whipped cream topping: Using a mixer, whip the heavy whipping cream at high speed until it just starts to turn foamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to whip until soft peaks form.
  7. Decorate the pie: Spread or pipe the whipped cream evenly over the chilled coconut custard. Sprinkle the remaining toasted shredded coconut evenly on the top as a garnish.

Notes

  • To toast coconut, spread it evenly on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
  • Ensure the custard is stirred constantly during cooking to avoid lumps or burning.
  • Covering the custard with plastic wrap directly prevents a skin from forming on top.
  • This pie is best served chilled and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • You can use a graham cracker crust as an alternative, but a classic baked pie crust provides the best texture.

Keywords: Coconut Cream Pie, cream pie, custard pie, coconut dessert, toasted coconut, homemade pie, whipped cream pie