Mama'S Coconut Pie
Mama's Coconut Pie offers a rich, creamy coconut filling with a fluffy meringue topping, combining sweet and nutty flavors. Perfect for special occasions or family desserts, it features a tender crust and a toasted meringue finish, appealing to coconut lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, 1/2 cup sugar, and salt in the top of a double boiler. Add scalded milk and stir well. Cook over direct heat until thick and smooth, stirring constantly.
- Beat egg yolks well. Stir in a little hot mixture and pour back into the double boiler. Cook over boiling water for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and add butter and vanilla.
- Beat egg whites until light and fluffy, then gradually beat in 6 tablespoons of sugar until stiff.
- Fold 1/2 cup moist shredded coconut into the cooled filling.
- Fold about half of the meringue into the filling and pour into a cooled pie shell.
- Spread remaining meringue so it touches the edges of the crust all around.
- Place in a 425°F oven for 4 1/2 minutes to brown the meringue.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh coconut instead of shredded coconut. If you don't have a double boiler, a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water works just as well. Ensure the egg whites are free of yolk for the meringue to whip properly. If you like a sweeter pie, increase the sugar in the filling slightly to taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mama's Coconut Pie chilled or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. For a delightful contrast, consider serving it alongside a light salad, such as Spinach Florentine, to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. This pie is best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. If reheating, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to warm it without compromising the meringue.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mama'S Coconut Pie contains roughly 322 calories, with 5g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value), iron (11% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1013mg per serving (44% 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 make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and meringue a day in advance. Assemble the pie and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake the meringue. Just remember that the meringue should be added right before baking for the best texture.
What can I substitute for scalded milk?
If you prefer not to scald milk, you can use whole milk at room temperature or even almond milk for a dairy-free version. However, scalding the milk helps to enhance the flavor and texture, so try to follow the original method if possible.
How do I prevent my meringue from weeping?
To prevent weeping, ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry. Additionally, make sure the meringue touches the edges of the crust to seal it properly. Adding a teaspoon of cornstarch to the meringue can also help stabilize it.
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).