Toasted Coconut Dream Pie

Coconut Cream Pie Recipe

Overview

This Coconut Cream Pie recipe is a delightful adaptation of Debbie Field’s renowned dessert, featured in her cookbook “Debbie Field’s Great American Desserts.” It’s a perfect blend of creamy custard, toasted coconut, and a buttery crust, making it a favorite among pie enthusiasts. With a total preparation and cooking time of just 40 minutes, it’s ideal for a quick yet impressive dessert option.

Ingredients

• For the Pie Filling:
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2/3 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups half-and-half
  • 6 large egg yolks
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup shredded coconut (toasted)
• For the Whipped Cream Topping:
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For Garnish:
  • Additional shredded coconut (toasted)
  • Chopped nuts (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Custard:

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   • In a heavy saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
   • Gradually stir in the half-and-half until the mixture is smooth.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly.
   • Reduce the heat to maintain a simmer and continue cooking, stirring constantly, for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened.
   • In a separate bowl, lightly whisk the egg yolks. Slowly whisk in about 1 cup of the hot cream mixture into the yolks to temper them.
   • Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture.
   • Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and begins to steam (about 4 to 5 minutes). Be careful not to let it boil.
   • Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
   • Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to ensure smooth texture.
   • Cover the custard directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Cool on a wire rack.

2. Incorporate the Toasted Coconut:

   • Once the custard has cooled, gently fold in the toasted shredded coconut. Chill the custard in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

3. Prepare the Whipped Cream:

   • In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
   • Using an electric mixer on high speed, beat the mixture until stiff peaks form, creating whipped cream.

4. Assemble the Pie:

   • Pour the cooled coconut custard into a prebaked 9-inch pie crust, spreading it evenly.
   • Mound the prepared whipped cream over the custard filling, creating a generous layer.
   • Sprinkle additional toasted shredded coconut and chopped nuts over the whipped cream for added texture and flavor.

5. Chill and Serve:

   • Chill the assembled pie in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the pie to set properly.
   • Slice and serve chilled, enjoying the creamy texture and rich coconut flavor with each bite.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 550.1
• Total Fat: 39.1g
  • Saturated Fat: 21.8g
• Cholesterol: 229.4mg
• Sodium: 256.7mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1.3g
  • Sugar: 26.7g
• Protein: 8.7g

Tips for Success

• Toasting Coconut: Spread shredded coconut evenly on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C). Stir every 5 minutes until golden brown. Watch closely to prevent burning.
• Pie Crust: Use a homemade or store-bought prebaked pie crust for convenience. Ensure it is completely cooled before adding the custard filling.
• Whipped Cream: For best results, chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream. This helps achieve a firmer whipped cream consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This Coconut Cream Pie is perfect for any occasion, from potlucks to family gatherings. Its creamy texture and tropical coconut flavor make it a refreshing dessert choice, especially during warmer months. Serve alongside freshly brewed coffee or as a sweet ending to a delicious meal.

Conclusion

Indulge in the creamy, coconut-infused goodness of this Coconut Cream Pie. With its rich custard filling, fluffy whipped cream topping, and toasted coconut garnish, it’s sure to become a favorite dessert in your repertoire. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating a homemade pie that delights both the eyes and the taste buds!