Coconut Meringue Pie

Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A creamy coconut meringue pie featuring a rich coconut filling topped with fluffy meringue, perfect for coconut lovers and suitable for a comforting dessert experience.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 eggs, separated
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup flaked coconut
  • 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Instructions

  1. Combine egg yolks, salt, and milk in a saucepan.
  2. Mix well to combine.
  3. Place over low heat, stirring constantly, until warm.
  4. Gradually add 1 cup of sugar and cornstarch to the milk mixture, stirring constantly until thickened.
  5. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is thickened.
  6. Remove from heat; stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and coconut.

Tips & Substitutions

To achieve a perfect meringue, ensure your mixing bowl is completely clean and free of grease. Adding a pinch of salt can help stabilize the egg whites. If you prefer a sweeter filling, consider using sweetened coconut. For a more tropical flavor, you can substitute the vanilla extract with coconut extract. This pie pairs beautifully with Jello Cream Cheese Cake for a delightful dessert spread.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Coconut Meringue Pie chilled, garnished with additional flaked coconut on top for added texture. It pairs well with fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries or pineapple, which can add a refreshing contrast. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes for a decadent treat. This pie is perfect for summer gatherings or as a sweet end to a meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Coconut Meringue Pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to prevent drying out. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal texture. If the meringue starts to weep, try gently reheating individual slices in the oven at a low temperature to revive some of its original texture before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Coconut Meringue Pie contains roughly 364 calories, with 3g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron.

364 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.6g 5% DV
Total Fat 3.5g 4% DV
Carbs 42.4g 15% DV
Fiber 1.5g 5% DV
Sugar 22.1g 44% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 229.9mg 10% DV
Potassium 1486.3mg 32% DV
Cholesterol 2.2mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 56.5mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 15.5mg 17% DV
Vitamin D 0.5mcg 3% DV
Calcium 138.5mg 11% DV
Iron 2.3mg 13% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of milk for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. However, using full-fat options will yield a creamier filling. Be aware that different milk types may alter the flavor slightly, so choose according to your preference.

How do I prevent the meringue from weeping?

To prevent weeping, ensure that the meringue is spread over the filling while it’s still warm. This helps create a seal between the pie filling and the meringue. Additionally, baking the meringue at a low temperature can help dry it out and reduce moisture.

Is it possible to make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to add the meringue just before serving to maintain its texture and prevent it from becoming soggy. You can also bake the crust ahead and assemble it later.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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