Coconut Cream Pie

Delicious Coconut Cream Pie Recipe from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Coconut cream pie is a classic dessert that combines the rich flavors of coconut and creamy custard in a flaky pie crust. This indulgent treat is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday celebrations.

History

The origins of coconut cream pie can be traced back to the United States, where it became popular in the early 20th century. The combination of coconut, cream, and a buttery crust quickly became a favorite among dessert lovers, and the recipe has been passed down through generations.

Ingredients

3 cups of half-and-half
2 eggs
0.75 cup of white sugar
0.5 cup of all-purpose flour
0.25 tsp of salt
1.25 cups of flaked coconut
0.75 tsp of vanilla extract
1 (9 inches) baked pie shell
1 cup of thawed frozen whipped topping

How to prepare

In a medium saucepan, combine half-and-half, eggs, sugar, flour, and salt.
Bring the mixture to a boil over low heat, stirring continuously.
Remove from heat and stir in 0.75 cup of coconut and the vanilla extract.
Pour the mixture into a pie shell and chill for 2 to 4 hours, or until firm.
Top with whipped topping and sprinkle the remaining 0.25 cup of coconut on top.

Variations

Add a layer of chocolate ganache on top of the pie for a decadent twist.
Use toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.
Substitute the half-and-half with coconut milk for a dairy-free version of the pie.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the custard mixture continuously while cooking to prevent lumps from forming.

- Chill the pie for at least 2 to 4 hours before serving to allow the filling to set properly.

- For a more intense coconut flavor, toast the coconut flakes before adding them to the custard mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve coconut cream pie chilled with a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra indulgent treat.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a perfect coconut cream pie is to cook the custard mixture over low heat and stir continuously to prevent lumps from forming.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use coconut sugar or brown sugar instead of white sugar for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch for a gluten-free version of the pie.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the coconut cream pie a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the pie with toasted coconut flakes and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Coconut cream pie pairs well with a cup of hot coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover coconut cream pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of coconut cream pie contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of coconut cream pie contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of coconut cream pie contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of coconut cream pie contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Coconut cream pie is a good source of calcium, vitamin D, and iron.

Alergens

Coconut cream pie contains eggs, dairy, and wheat.

Summary

Coconut cream pie is a delicious dessert that is rich in carbohydrates and fats. It also provides a good amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Coconut cream pie is a delicious and indulgent dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy custard filling and flaky pie crust, this classic recipe is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipes that had been passed down to me from my mother. As I sifted through the yellowed cards and tattered pieces of paper, my eyes landed on a faded slip of paper with the words "Coconut Cream Pie" scrawled across it in elegant cursive.

The recipe was written in my grandmother's handwriting, and I could almost hear her voice as I read through the ingredients and instructions. I remembered how she used to make this pie for special occasions, and how everyone would rave about how delicious it was.

I decided then and there that I would recreate my grandmother's Coconut Cream Pie, and hopefully capture a bit of that magic that she always seemed to infuse into her cooking. I gathered the ingredients and set to work, following the instructions carefully and adding a few touches of my own along the way.

The smell of coconut and vanilla filled the kitchen as the pie baked in the oven, and I couldn't help but smile as I thought of my grandmother looking down on me, proud that I was carrying on her culinary legacy. When the pie was finally finished, I couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends.

As they took their first bites, I could see the same look of delight on their faces that I had seen so many times before when my grandmother served her Coconut Cream Pie. It was a moment of pure joy and connection, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.

Since that day, Coconut Cream Pie has become a staple in my own recipe collection, a dish that I turn to time and time again when I want to feel closer to my grandmother and the traditions that she passed down to me. And every time I make it, I can't help but think of her and the love that she poured into every dish she made.

So here it is, my grandmother's recipe for Coconut Cream Pie, a taste of the past and a reminder of the enduring power of family, food, and love. I hope that you enjoy making it as much as I have, and that it brings you as much joy and connection as it has brought me over the years.