Coconut-Orange Chess Pie
Coconut-Orange Chess Pie offers a delightful blend of sweet coconut and citrus flavors, with a rich, creamy texture and a golden crust. Perfect for family gatherings or holiday desserts, it balances sweetness with a hint of tang, appealing to coconut lovers and citrus enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, flour, and cornmeal, mixing well.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then add melted butter, orange juice concentrate, and water.
- Add the egg mixture to the sugar mixture, stirring well.
- Stir in the flaked coconut.
- Pour the filling into the unbaked pie shell.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes or until the filling sets.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened coconut flakes instead of sweetened. You can substitute the orange juice concentrate with fresh orange juice if desired, though the flavor may be slightly different. Make sure to allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts. This pie is reminiscent of the delightful textures found in Cornmeal Rolls.
Serving Suggestions
This Coconut-Orange Chess Pie is delightful on its own, but you can enhance it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a refreshing twist, serve alongside fresh fruit or a citrus salad. It pairs beautifully with Chocolate Lush Cake for a perfect dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature for the best taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coconut-Orange Chess Pie contains roughly 315 calories, with 5g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of iron (11% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value).
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 pie crust?
Yes, you can use a pre-made graham cracker crust for a different flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if necessary, as graham cracker crusts may brown faster. A whole wheat crust could also add a nutty taste that complements the coconut.
Is it necessary to use cornmeal in this recipe?
While cornmeal contributes to the texture of the pie, you can substitute it with an equal amount of additional flour if you prefer. However, keep in mind that this may slightly alter the pie's final consistency.
Can I freeze this pie?
Yes, you can freeze the pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to bake, remove it from the freezer and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
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).