This Coconut Cream Pie is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With a rich, creamy filling and a crispy crust, it’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests. The combination of coconut and cream makes for a luscious and indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
- For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- For the filling:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- For the topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Toasted coconut flakes (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are well coated and resemble wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
- Make the filling:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil. Boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually whisk in about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture to temper the yolks.
- Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and boils again. Boil for 1 minute.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded coconut, vanilla extract, coconut extract, and butter until fully combined and smooth.
- Pour the filling into the cooled pie crust. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the filling to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Prepare the topping:
- In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled pie filling.
- Garnish with toasted coconut flakes, if desired.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve the pie chilled. Enjoy your delectable Coconut Cream Pie!
Feel free to make this pie ahead of time and keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.