Grandma Coconut Cream Pie
A rich and creamy coconut custard pie topped with fluffy meringue and toasted coconut, perfect for coconut lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Warm the milk and beaten egg yolks together without boiling.
- Mix in sugar, flour, salt, vanilla, and toasted coconut. Cook until thickened.
- Pour the mixture into a baked pie shell.
- Top with meringue and sprinkle with additional toasted coconut.
- Bake in the oven until the meringue is golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using coconut milk instead of evaporated milk. If you prefer a lighter meringue, add a pinch of cream of tartar to the egg whites. To prevent the crust from getting soggy, you can brush it with a thin layer of melted chocolate before adding the filling. Ensure to toast the coconut until golden for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with extra toasted coconut for visual appeal. This pie pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit, like berries, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. Consider complementing it with a light salad, like Apple Rice Slaw, for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, to maintain freshness. The pie is best enjoyed within 2-3 days. If the meringue becomes weepy, you can briefly reheat individual slices in the oven at a low temperature for about 5 minutes to restore texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Coconut Cream Pie contains roughly 164 calories, with 5g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value) and iron (11% 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 store-bought pie crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust can save time and still provide a delicious base for your Coconut Cream Pie. Just follow the package directions for pre-baking the crust to ensure it's crisp before adding the filling.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the evaporated milk with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or almond milk. Ensure the sugar and other ingredients are also suitable for your dietary needs, and enjoy a creamy, delicious pie without the dairy!
What can I do if the meringue weeps after baking?
If the meringue weeps, it may have been exposed to too much moisture or overcooked. To prevent this, ensure the filling is completely cool before adding the meringue and bake until just golden. If it still weeps, try serving it chilled to help stabilize the meringue.
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).