Have you ever bitten into a dessert that immediately made you feel like you were on vacation, somewhere tropical, with a warm breeze and the soft sound of waves crashing nearby? If not, let me introduce you to French Coconut Pie. This dessert is like a slice of paradise, combining the sweetness of coconut with a smooth, creamy filling and a perfectly golden crust. It’s one of those treats that feels indulgent but also comforting—something you’ll crave whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself on a random Tuesday.
Let’s dive into what makes this pie so special, and then I’ll walk you through how to make your very own French Coconut Pie at home!
Why You Will Love French Coconut Pie
French Coconut Pie is a dessert that’s sure to win your heart. Here’s why you’ll love it:
Irresistible Texture
The top of the pie is perfectly crispy, while the inside is creamy and custard-like. The coconut adds a delightful chewiness, making each bite a satisfying mix of textures.
Easy to Make
With just a few basic ingredients like eggs, milk, sugar, butter, and coconut, this pie is simple to prepare. No complicated steps—just mix, bake, and enjoy!
Perfectly Sweet
The flavor is rich but not overwhelming. It’s sweet enough to satisfy your cravings but balanced by the natural coconut flavor, making it a treat that never feels too heavy.
How to Make French Coconut Pie
French Coconut Pie is an easy-to-make dessert that combines the tropical sweetness of coconut with a rich, creamy custard filling. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a pie that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this scrumptious treat!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ cups shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened, based on preference)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup milk (whole milk works best for a rich texture)
- ½ cup butter (melted)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade, if you prefer)
Tools You’ll Need:
- A 9-inch pie pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spoon for mixing
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your pie bakes evenly and gives you the perfect golden-brown crust.
Prepare Your Pie Crust
If you’re using a store-bought pie crust, simply place it into your pie pan. If you’re making your own, follow your preferred pie crust recipe. A classic buttery crust works best to balance the sweetness of the coconut.
Prepare the Pie Filling
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is smooth. Add in the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract and continue whisking until all ingredients are well combined.
Now, stir in the shredded coconut. If you like a thicker filling, you can also add 1 tablespoon of flour to help the mixture set better during baking. Mix everything together until the coconut is evenly distributed.
Pour the Filling into the Crust
Once your filling is ready, carefully pour it into the pie crust. Make sure the filling is evenly spread out across the pie crust for uniform baking.
Bake the Pie
Place the pie in your preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll want the top of the pie to be golden brown and a bit crispy, but the center should still be slightly soft—like a custard. To check if it’s done, gently shake the pie; the center should jiggle slightly, but not be liquid.
Cool and Serve
Once the pie is done, take it out of the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. This will help it set properly. You can also place it in the fridge to chill for a few hours if you prefer a colder pie.
Once cooled, slice and serve. Top with whipped cream or toasted coconut if you want to add a little extra flair!
Additional Tips:
- For a richer flavor, try using coconut milk instead of regular milk. It will enhance the coconut taste and make the pie even creamier.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a sprinkle of chocolate chips or chopped pecans to the coconut mixture for a fun twist.
How to Store French Coconut Pie
Room Temperature:
- Store for up to 2 days.
- Cover loosely with plastic wrap or foil.
- Keep in a cool, dry place.
Refrigerator:
- Store for up to 4 days.
- Cover with plastic wrap or foil.
- Alternatively, use an airtight container.
Freezer:
- Store for up to 2 months.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between French Coconut Pie and other coconut pies?
French Coconut Pie tends to have a richer, custard-like texture, while other coconut pies might be more cake-like or dense. The use of eggs and milk gives French Coconut Pie its signature creamy filling, whereas some coconut pies rely more on coconut milk and fewer eggs.
Can I freeze French Coconut Pie?
Yes! French Coconut Pie freezes very well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw overnight in the fridge.
Can I make French Coconut Pie without a crust?
Absolutely! If you prefer a crustless version, just pour the filling into a greased pie pan and bake as usual. The pie will still set beautifully, but it will have a slightly different texture without the crust.
How do I store leftover French Coconut Pie?
Store your leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cover it with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh. It’s best served chilled, but you can warm it up slightly in the microwave if you prefer it warm.
What beverages pair best with French Coconut Pie?
Coffee is an excellent pairing, as the slight bitterness complements the sweetness of the pie. You could also enjoy it with a cup of tea, or for something a little more indulgent, try a dessert wine like a late harvest Riesling.
Print
French Coconut Pie
- Total Time: 1hour 10minutes
Description
This French Coconut Pie recipe combines a creamy custard filling with shredded coconut in a buttery crust, creating a perfectly balanced dessert. It’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 9 in pie shell
- 3 eggs
- 1 ½ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup butter melted
- pinch of salt
- 1¼ cup shredded coconut flakes
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350.
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Beat eggs in a large mixing bowl.3 eggs
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Add sugar, vinegar, and vanilla to beaten eggs. Mix well.1 ½ cup sugar,1 tablespoon white vinegar,1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
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Slowly pour in melted cup butter. Add in pinch of salt and shredded coconut. Mix egg mixture.½ cup butter,pinch of salt,1¼ cup shredded coconut flakes
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Pour coconut filling into pie.9 in pie shell
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Bake for 55 to 60 minutes. Top will turn golden brown and crackly hard at touch. If your crust begins to brown too quickly, cover with foil.
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You can serve warm, but it is best to wait for the pie to cool to room temperature before serving.
Notes
- Prep Time: 10minutes
- Cook Time: 1hour
- Category: APPETIZER
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 276kcal
Keywords: French Coconut Pie
