Lela'S Chocolate Or Coconut Pie
Creamy chocolate or coconut pie with rich filling and fluffy meringue topping, perfect for dessert lovers, family gatherings, or special occasions craving indulgent sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients (sugar, cocoa if used, flour, salt) in an iron skillet.
- Add milk and margarine to the skillet and cook over low to medium heat, stirring constantly until thick.
- Gradually add beaten egg yolks and vanilla, continue stirring and cook until the mixture is thickened.
- Pour the filling into a pre-baked pie shell.
- Top with meringue and, for coconut pie, sprinkle coconut on top of the meringue.
- Bake or broil as needed to brown the meringue and set the pie.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa. If you prefer a lighter texture, substitute half of the margarine with unsweetened applesauce. Make sure to whisk the egg yolks well before adding them to the mixture to ensure a smooth filling. If you want to add a twist, consider using some shredded coconut for a more tropical taste, similar to Surprise Coconut Pie.
Serving Suggestions
This pie pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. Consider serving it alongside fresh fruit, like berries, to balance the sweetness. For a complete meal, it complements savory dishes like Stuffing Spinach Balls or Never Fail Squash Casserole perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, to keep it fresh. It is best consumed within 3 days. To reheat, place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, which will help maintain the texture of the meringue.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lela'S Chocolate Or Coconut Pie contains roughly 743 calories, with 19g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (39% of the Daily Value), protein (37% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1140mg per serving (50% 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?
Yes, using a store-bought pie crust can save time and still yield a delicious pie. Just make sure to bake it according to the package instructions before adding the filling.
How can I make this pie gluten-free?
To make this pie gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Verify that all other ingredients, especially the pie crust, are certified gluten-free to ensure the entire dish is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
What can I do if the meringue doesn't brown properly?
If the meringue doesn't brown, try using the broil setting on your oven for a minute or two, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning. Alternatively, you can use a kitchen torch for more control over the browning process.
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).