Haitian Coconut Cream Pie Recipe - Traditional Haitian Dessert

Haitian Coconut Cream Pie

Haitian Coconut Cream Pie Recipe - Traditional Haitian Dessert
Region / culture: Haiti | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Haitian Coconut Cream Pie
Haitian Coconut Cream Pie

Haitian Coconut Cream Pie is a delicious and creamy dessert that is perfect for any occasion. This pie is made with a rich coconut filling and topped with a fluffy meringue. It is a popular dessert in Haitian cuisine and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

The origins of Coconut Cream Pie can be traced back to Haiti, where coconut is a staple ingredient in many dishes. This dessert has been enjoyed for generations in Haitian households and is often served during special occasions and holidays.

Ingredients

Coconut Cream Pie

Meringue

How to prepare

  1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (149°C). Add 0.33 cup of sugar, cornstarch, and salt to the egg yolks.
  2. Pour the milk into this mixture, place it in a double boiler, stir, and cook until thickened.
  3. Add butter, coconut, and vanilla. Pour the mixture into a pie shell.
  4. Beat the egg whites until foamy; gradually add sugar. Beat until the mixture stands in peaks.
  5. Pile the beaten egg whites lightly on top of the pie filling. Place it in the oven to brown.

Variations

  • Add a splash of rum or coconut rum to the filling for a boozy twist.
  • Top the pie with toasted almonds or macadamia nuts for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to scald the milk before adding it to the egg yolk mixture to prevent curdling.

- Be sure to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form for a light and fluffy meringue topping.

- Allow the pie to cool completely before serving to allow the filling to set properly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Coconut Cream Pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Techniques

Use a double boiler to cook the filling to prevent burning and ensure a smooth texture.

- Be sure to bake the meringue until golden brown for a beautiful presentation.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use coconut milk instead of regular milk for a more intense coconut flavor.

- Substitute almond extract for vanilla for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the pie filling and meringue ahead of time and assemble the pie just before serving for a fresh and delicious dessert.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Coconut Cream Pie with fresh fruit, such as sliced mango or pineapple, for a tropical touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the Coconut Cream Pie with a cup of Haitian coffee or a glass of coconut water for a refreshing and satisfying dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Coconut Cream Pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 290 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 32g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 15g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 5g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of calcium and iron.

Alergens

Contains eggs and dairy. May contain traces of nuts.

Summary

This Coconut Cream Pie is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It is a delicious treat that is best enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Haitian Coconut Cream Pie is a decadent and flavorful dessert that is sure to impress. With a rich coconut filling and a fluffy meringue topping, this pie is a delicious treat for any occasion. Enjoy a slice of this creamy and indulgent dessert today!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately captivated. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my friend Marie in Haiti. We were sitting in her kitchen, sipping on freshly squeezed pineapple juice, when she suddenly pulled out a tattered old cookbook from the shelf.

"Have you ever tried Haitian Coconut Cream Pie?" she asked, her eyes lighting up with excitement.

I shook my head, intrigued by the exotic sounding dessert. Marie flipped through the pages of the cookbook, her fingers tracing the faded ink of the recipe. She explained that it was a traditional Haitian dessert, made with sweet coconut milk, rich cream, and a hint of warm spices.

As she read out the ingredients and instructions, I couldn't help but feel a surge of inspiration. I had always loved baking, and the thought of recreating this unique and flavorful pie filled me with excitement. Marie must have sensed my eagerness, for she smiled and handed me a copy of the recipe.

"Here," she said, "I want you to have this. I know you'll do it justice."

And so, armed with the treasured recipe and Marie's blessing, I set out to make my very first Haitian Coconut Cream Pie. I gathered all the ingredients - fresh coconut milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, and a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg - and got to work in my own kitchen.

The process was laborious, but I poured my heart and soul into it. I whipped the cream until it formed stiff peaks, folded in the coconut milk, and carefully poured the mixture into a buttery pie crust. As the pie baked in the oven, the sweet, aromatic scent of coconut and spices filled the air, tantalizing my senses.

When the pie emerged golden and fragrant from the oven, I knew I had created something truly special. I let it cool on the counter, resisting the urge to dig in immediately. Instead, I waited for my family to gather around the table, eager to share my creation with them.

As we each took a slice of the pie, the room fell silent. The first bite was pure bliss - a symphony of flavors and textures that danced on our taste buds. The creamy coconut filling was perfectly balanced by the flaky crust and subtle spices, creating a dessert that was both comforting and exotic.

From that moment on, Haitian Coconut Cream Pie became a staple in my repertoire of recipes. I shared it with friends and family, who marveled at its unique taste and begged for the recipe. Over the years, I have made countless variations of the pie, adding my own touches and experimenting with different ingredients.

But no matter how many times I make it, the memory of that first pie in Marie's kitchen will always hold a special place in my heart. It was a moment of inspiration and friendship that sparked a lifelong love affair with Haitian cuisine and the art of baking.

And so, every time I make Haitian Coconut Cream Pie, I am reminded of that fateful day in Haiti, when a simple recipe brought me joy, friendship, and a delicious taste of the Caribbean. It is a reminder that food has the power to connect us, to evoke memories, and to bring us together in a shared love of good food and good company.

Categories

| Coconut Recipes | Haitian Desserts | Haitian Recipes | Meringue Pie Recipes |

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