Indulge in Nostalgic Bliss: Old Fashioned Coconut Cream Pie
Embark on a journey down memory lane with our timeless Old Fashioned Coconut Cream Pie recipe! This classic dessert is a delightful combination of rich coconut custard, fluffy whipped cream, and a flaky pie crust that will transport you to a bygone era of homemade goodness. Whether you’re reminiscing about days gone by or introducing a new generation to the joys of traditional baking, this pie is sure to evoke feelings of warmth and comfort. So, let’s dive into the kitchen and recreate a taste of nostalgia with this beloved dessert!
Ingredients:
- 1 9-inch pre-made pie crust
- 2 cups of coconut milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of shredded coconut
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pre-made pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges. Prick the bottom and sides of the crust with a fork to prevent bubbling.
- Bake the crust: Bake the pie crust in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
- Prepare the coconut custard: In a saucepan, combine the coconut milk, heavy cream, sugar, egg yolks, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until smooth. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded coconut.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the coconut custard into the cooled pie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Cover the pie with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Serve: Once chilled, top the pie with whipped cream and additional shredded coconut for garnish, if desired. Slice and serve chilled, and enjoy the creamy, coconutty goodness!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Toasted Coconut: For added flavor and texture, toast the shredded coconut before adding it to the custard. Simply spread the coconut in an even layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
- Coconut Extract: For an extra boost of coconut flavor, add a teaspoon of coconut extract to the custard mixture along with the vanilla extract.
- Graham Cracker Crust: If you prefer a graham cracker crust, you can substitute it for the pre-made pie crust. Simply prepare the crust according to package instructions and proceed with the recipe as directed.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make this recipe keto-friendly, you can use a low-carb pie crust made with almond flour or coconut flour. Substitute the sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener, and use coconut cream instead of coconut milk for a richer flavor.
- Low Carb Version: Similarly, for a lower-carb option, you can use a low-carb pie crust and coconut cream instead of coconut milk. Use a low-carb sweetener in place of sugar, and adjust the amount to taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use fresh coconut instead of shredded coconut? A: Yes, you can use fresh coconut in place of shredded coconut for a more intense coconut flavor and texture. Simply grate or shred the fresh coconut and use it as directed in the recipe.
Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time? A: Absolutely! This pie can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Q: Can I freeze leftover pie? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover pie for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I use a different type of milk or cream? A: While coconut milk and heavy cream provide the best flavor and texture for this recipe, you can experiment with different types of milk or cream if desired. Just be aware that it may alter the final result slightly.
In conclusion, our Old Fashioned Coconut Cream Pie is a timeless dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy coconut custard, flaky pie crust, and luscious whipped cream topping, it’s a treat that’s sure to delight your taste buds and evoke fond memories of days gone by. Whether you’re enjoying it with loved ones or savoring a slice on your own, this pie is a comforting indulgence that never goes out of style. So, why not treat yourself to a taste of nostalgia and whip up a pie today? Your taste buds will thank you!
