The Absolute Best Coconut Cream Pie Recipe

This Coconut Cream Pie is an indulgent dessert that combines a flaky, buttery pie crust with a creamy coconut filling, all topped with fluffy whipped cream and toasted coconut. It’s the perfect blend of rich, sweet, and tropical flavors that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re a fan of coconut or just looking for a dessert to impress, this coconut cream pie is guaranteed to become a favorite.

The Absolute Best Coconut Cream Pie

I absolutely love making this coconut cream pie because it’s so decadent and satisfying. The smooth, custard-like coconut filling is perfectly complemented by the light and airy whipped cream topping, while the toasted coconut adds just the right amount of texture and flavor. It’s a dessert that looks beautiful and tastes even better, and it’s one of those pies that feels like a true treat with every bite.

This coconut cream pie pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or alongside another tropical dessert like Hawaiian Pineapple and Coconut Cake Recipe for a perfectly themed spread.

Why You’ll Love This Coconut Cream Pie Recipe

• Creamy and Decadent: The filling is rich and creamy, with a perfectly smooth texture that melts in your mouth.
• Tropical Flavors: The coconut flavor shines through in every layer, from the filling to the topping.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the pie in advance, making it perfect for holidays or dinner parties.
• Perfect for Coconut Lovers: If you love coconut, this pie is the ultimate dessert!

Main Ingredients for The Absolute Best Coconut Cream Pie

1. Coconut Milk and Shredded Coconut – These are the stars of the filling, giving the pie its rich coconut flavor.
2. Egg Yolks – Helps create the creamy, custard-like filling.
3. Cornstarch – Thickens the coconut filling to give it a smooth, set texture.
4. Heavy Cream – Adds richness to both the filling and the whipped cream topping.
5. Pie Crust – A pre-baked crust forms the base of the pie and adds a buttery, flaky contrast to the creamy filling.
6. Sugar and Vanilla – Sweetens and enhances the flavors of the coconut filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions for The Absolute Best Coconut Cream Pie Recipe

Here’s how to make this decadent coconut cream pie step by step:

1. Prepare the Pie Crust: If you’re using store-bought or homemade pie crust, make sure it’s pre-baked and fully cooled before you start making the filling. You can blind bake the crust by lining it with parchment paper and filling it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden.
   • Tip: Let the crust cool completely before filling to avoid a soggy bottom.
2. Make the Coconut Filling: In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 cup of coconut milk, 1 cup of whole milk, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup of cornstarch over medium heat. Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture starts to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Pro Tip: Make sure to whisk continuously to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
3. Temper the Egg Yolks: In a small bowl, whisk 4 egg yolks. Slowly pour a small amount of the hot coconut mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly to temper them. Then, pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan, continuing to whisk until the filling thickens fully, about 3 more minutes.
   • Pro Tip: Tempering the yolks prevents them from scrambling and ensures a silky filling.
4. Add the Coconut and Flavorings: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup of shredded coconut. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
   • Variation: For extra coconut flavor, you can add 1/4 teaspoon of coconut extract along with the vanilla.
5. Chill the Filling: Pour the coconut filling into the pre-baked pie crust and spread it out evenly. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the filling to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
   • Tip: For best results, let the pie chill overnight to fully set and develop the flavors.
6. Make the Whipped Cream Topping: In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
   • Tip: Chill your bowl and beaters in the fridge for 10 minutes before whipping the cream for better volume.
7. Top with Whipped Cream and Toasted Coconut: Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled coconut filling. For a finishing touch, sprinkle 1/4 cup of toasted shredded coconut over the top.
   • Pro Tip: To toast the coconut, spread it on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
8. Serve: Slice the pie and serve cold, with extra toasted coconut or a drizzle of caramel sauce if desired.
   • Serving Idea: For an even more indulgent dessert, serve the pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Extra Tips and Variations

• Add a Chocolate Layer: For a coconut-chocolate twist, add a layer of melted chocolate at the bottom of the pie crust before pouring in the coconut filling.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Use full-fat coconut milk and dairy-free whipped topping to create a dairy-free version of this pie.
• How to Store: Keep the pie refrigerated for up to 3 days. Store any leftover whipped cream separately and top the pie just before serving.
• How to Freeze: You can freeze the coconut filling (without the whipped cream) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and top with whipped cream before serving.

Health Benefits of The Absolute Best Coconut Cream Pie

While this pie is indulgent, it does offer some benefits thanks to the coconut. Coconut is rich in healthy fats that support brain health and provide long-lasting energy. Additionally, coconut contains fiber, which can aid digestion. By making this pie at home, you can also control the amount of sugar used, making it a slightly healthier option than store-bought versions.

• Rich in Healthy Fats: Coconut provides medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easily digested and used as energy by the body.
• High in Fiber: Shredded coconut adds fiber, which supports digestive health.
• Customizable for Healthier Options: You can reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute like maple syrup or honey for a less sweet version.