Name: Family Favorite Coconut Cream Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h 50 min
Ingredients: 1 (9-inch) pie crust, baked and cooled; 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut; 3 cups whole milk; 3/4 cup white sugar; 1/3 cup cornstarch; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 4 large egg yolks; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes for garnish

Family Favorite Coconut Cream Pie: A Tropical Dream Dessert That Melts Hearts 🥥🥧💛

1. Introduction

Nothing says comfort like a classic coconut cream pie, and this Family Favorite Coconut Cream Pie recipe is guaranteed to become your new go-to dessert! With its perfect balance of creamy coconut custard, flaky crust, and fluffy whipped cream topping, this pie is a tropical paradise in every bite. Whether you’re looking for the best coconut cream pie recipe for a special occasion or just want to treat your family to something extraordinary, this version delivers on both flavor and texture.

If you love creamy desserts as much as we do, you’ll want to check out our complete collection of decadent dessert recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From simple weeknight treats to show-stopping creations, we’ve got something for every sweet tooth!

Finished Family Favorite Coconut Cream Pie with whipped cream and toasted coconut topping

2. Ingredients

For the best coconut cream pie recipe, you’ll need these simple yet essential ingredients that create magic when combined:

1 (9-inch) pie crust, baked and cooled (try our perfect pie crust techniques for best results)
1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut (the star ingredient!)
3 cups whole milk (for that rich, creamy texture)
3/4 cup white sugar (perfect sweetness balance)
1/3 cup cornstarch (the secret to perfect thickness)
1/4 teaspoon salt (enhances all the flavors)
4 large egg yolks (creates that luxurious custard)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (adds richness)
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract (quality makes a difference)
1 cup heavy whipping cream (for that cloud-like topping)
2 tablespoons powdered sugar (sweetens the whipped cream perfectly)
1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes for garnish (adds crunch and visual appeal)

For those who love exploring different flavor profiles, our breakfast and brunch recipes section offers many sweet options that would pair beautifully with this pie!

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Pie Crust

Begin by pre-baking your pie crust according to package directions or your favorite homemade recipe. For the best coconut cream pie recipe results, make sure your crust is fully cooled before adding the filling. This prevents a soggy bottom and ensures perfect texture in every bite. If you’re new to baking, don’t worry – we’ve got plenty of baking tips and tricks to help you master the perfect crust!

Pre-baked pie crust ready for filling in Family Favorite Coconut Cream Pie recipe

Step 2: Make the Coconut Custard Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks. Gradually whisk about 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks to temper them (this prevents scrambled eggs in your custard), then return everything to the saucepan. Cook for 2 more minutes until very thick. The custard should coat the back of a spoon when it’s ready.

This technique is similar to what we use in many of our custard-based desserts, so once you master it, you’ll be able to create all sorts of delicious treats!

Creamy custard mixture cooking on the stove for coconut cream pie filling

Step 3: Add Coconut and Flavorings

Remove the custard from heat and stir in butter, vanilla extract, and shredded coconut. The coconut will soften as it sits in the warm custard, creating the perfect texture for our best coconut cream pie recipe. For extra coconut flavor, toast half of your coconut before adding it to the custard. This simple step adds incredible depth of flavor that will make your pie stand out from any traditional coconut cream pie recipe you’ve tried before.

Toasted coconut flakes being added to the custard for coconut cream pie filling

Step 4: Assemble and Chill

Pour the warm coconut custard into your prepared pie crust. Smooth the top with a spatula, then press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set completely. This patience will be rewarded with perfect slices that hold their shape when served. While you wait, why not browse our dinner recipes to plan the perfect meal to precede this amazing dessert?

Coconut custard filling being poured into the pie crust for Family Favorite Coconut Cream Pie

4. Topping and Garnish

Just before serving, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread over the chilled pie and sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes for extra texture and visual appeal. This final touch elevates our best coconut cream pie recipe to restaurant-quality perfection! If you’re serving this at a gathering, consider pairing it with one of our refreshing salad recipes for a perfect balance of flavors.

5. Serving Suggestions

Serve your Family Favorite Coconut Cream Pie chilled for the best texture. Pair with coffee or tropical cocktails for a complete dessert experience. For special occasions, garnish with edible flowers or chocolate shavings alongside the toasted coconut. This pie makes a wonderful ending to any meal, whether it’s a casual family dinner or an elegant dinner party featuring our special beef recipes as the main course.

6. Storage Tips

Store leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The whipped cream topping is best added just before serving, but if you need to store the pie with topping, place toothpicks in the pie and tent loosely with plastic wrap to protect the whipped cream. For more helpful kitchen tips like these, check out our about page where we share our best cooking wisdom!

7. Recipe Variations

For a twist on this best coconut cream pie recipe, try:

Chocolate coconut cream pie: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the custard
Piña colada pie: Add 1/2 cup crushed pineapple to the filling
Mocha coconut pie: Add 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
Tropical twist: Layer sliced bananas on the crust before adding filling
Nutty version: Sprinkle chopped macadamia nuts on top with the coconut

8. Expert Tips

For guaranteed success with this best coconut cream pie recipe:

Use full-fat coconut milk for half of the dairy for extra coconut flavor
Toast your coconut garnish at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until golden
Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping cream
Let pie sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing
Use a serrated knife dipped in hot water for clean slices
For professional presentation, pipe the whipped cream using a star tip

If you’re interested in more professional cooking techniques, consider exploring our work with me section for personalized cooking advice!

9. Conclusion

This Family Favorite Coconut Cream Pie truly lives up to its name as the best coconut cream pie recipe you’ll ever try. With its perfect balance of creamy coconut custard, crisp crust, and fluffy topping, it’s a dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re a coconut lover or just appreciate a well-made cream pie, this recipe delivers unforgettable flavor and texture in every slice. Give it a try and watch it become your family’s new favorite dessert tradition! And when you’re ready for more culinary adventures, our collection of chicken recipes and comforting soups await your discovery!