Name: Coconut Custard Pie Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 recipe all-butter pie crust; 1 1/2 cups sweetened flaked coconut (angel flake, 3.9 to 4.2 ounces depending on brand); 1 1/2 cups whole milk; 3 large eggs; 1/2 to 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla flavoring; 1/2 teaspoon coconut flavoring; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Lightly sweetened whipped cream; Extra toasted coconut flakes

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 13 reviews

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If you adore the velvety richness of custard paired with the tropical charm of coconut, then this Coconut Custard Pie Recipe is going to become one of your all-time favorites. This pie features a luscious custard filling infused with the delicate flavors of coconut and vanilla, baked to creamy perfection inside a flaky, buttery crust. Every bite delivers a dreamy balance of smooth texture and subtle sweetness, accented by bits of toasted coconut that add just the right amount of crunch and warmth. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dessert to share with family or a unique twist on a classic custard pie, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels both nostalgic and delightfully fresh.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up top view of a pie on a white marbled surface, showing a golden, flaky crust with detailed decorative edges and a creamy filling with light brown toasted flakes mixed inside, creating a speckled effect. Around the pie are various items: at the top left, there is a glass measuring cup filled with white liquid on a striped cloth, at the top right, a white bowl filled with toasted flakes, and near the bottom right, six brown eggs resting in a gray carton. A metal whisk with a wooden handle lies diagonally in the bottom left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Coconut Custard Pie Recipe truly starts with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create that unforgettable harmony of flavor and texture. Each element plays a key role: crisp, flaky crust; creamy custard enriched with creamy dairy; and that irresistibly toasty coconut topping that elevates the whole experience.

All-butter pie crust (1/2 recipe): Provides a rich, flaky base with buttery flavor that’s essential for custard pies.
Sweetened, flaked coconut (1-1/2 cups): Adds tropical sweetness and texture—make sure to use “angel flake” for the perfect consistency.
Whole milk (1-1/2 cups): Gives the custard its creamy, smooth body that feels comforting with every forkful.
Large eggs (3): The backbone of your custard, helping it set with a silky finish.
Granulated sugar (1/2 to 1 cup): Sweetens the custard to taste—adjust depending on your preference for sweetness.
Vanilla flavoring (1 teaspoon): Infuses a warm, classic undertone that enhances all the other flavors.
Coconut flavoring (1/2 teaspoon): Intensifies the coconut presence without overpowering the pie.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and rounds out the taste.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Adds extra richness and a silky texture to the custard filling.
Lightly-sweetened whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes (for garnish): Provide the finishing touch with added lightness and texture when serving.

How to Make Coconut Custard Pie Recipe

Step 1: Toast the Coconut

Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit, then spread your flaked coconut evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Toast the coconut for about 5 to 8 minutes, stirring once or twice during baking, until you see lovely golden speckles and your kitchen fills with that warm, nutty aroma. Toasting unlocks the full flavor of the coconut and adds a delightful crunch to your custard pie.

Step 2: Blind Bake the Pie Crust

Raise your oven temperature to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare your all-butter pie crust according to your recipe, then perform a blind bake in a 9-inch pie plate—ideally a metal one to achieve the best crust texture for custard pies. This process ensures the crust stays crisp and holds its shape against the filling. Once your crust is ready, return the baking sheet with the toasted coconut to the oven rack and keep the oven heated to 375 degrees for the next steps.

Step 3: Make the Custard Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, coconut flavoring, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Next, stir in the heavy cream along with the toasted coconut you just prepared. This blend is where the magic happens—the toasted coconut adds a lovely texture contrast to the velvety custard, bringing deep, toasty notes to every spoonful.

Step 4: Bake the Pie

Pour the custard filling carefully into your blind-baked crust. To protect the crust edges from overbrowning, cover them with a pie crust shield or foil. Bake the pie for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. About 10 minutes before baking finishes, remove the shield so the edges can turn a beautiful golden brown without burning.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Once baked, allow the pie to cool completely to room temperature on a wire rack. Then cover it and refrigerate for several hours or overnight to let the custard fully set and flavors meld. This chilling step is crucial for achieving the dense, creamy texture that this Coconut Custard Pie Recipe is famous for.

How to Serve Coconut Custard Pie Recipe

A single slice of creamy coconut pie with a golden-brown crust sits on a white plate. The pie has a thick pale yellow filling, topped with a dollop of white whipped cream and sprinkled with toasted coconut flakes that add texture and a light brown contrast. A silver fork rests beside the pie slice on the plate. The setting is on a white marbled surface with a blurred cloth and kitchen tools in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

When it’s time to serve, the finishing touches make all the difference. A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on each slice instantly boosts the pie’s creaminess and adds a delicate sweetness. Sprinkle on extra toasted coconut flakes for that delightful crunch and a pretty visual contrast—your guests won’t be able to resist!

Side Dishes

This pie is lovely on its own but pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a simple fruit compote—think tangy berries or even mango slices that complement the tropical coconut flavor. A cup of strong coffee or chilled sweet tea balances the richness and rounds out the experience with a comforting note.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to take presentation up a notch, consider serving mini versions of this Coconut Custard Pie in individual tart pans for an elegant gathering. Or add a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of toasted nuts over the slices for extra indulgence. Using vibrant plates or rustic wooden boards can also enhance the tropical, homey vibe this recipe naturally inspires.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Coconut Custard Pie Recipe, store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator. Because custard is delicate, it’s best to keep it chilled to maintain that perfectly creamy texture. Leftovers will keep beautifully for about 3 to 4 days.

Freezing

While freezing custard pies is possible, it’s not usually recommended as the texture may change once thawed, becoming a bit watery or grainy. If you want to freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and use within one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

This pie is best enjoyed cold, so reheating is generally unnecessary. However, if you prefer a slightly warmer slice, gently warm it in a low oven (around 275 degrees Fahrenheit) for just a few minutes to avoid overheating and curdling the custard.

FAQs

Can I use unsweetened coconut flakes instead of sweetened?

Yes, you can substitute unsweetened coconut flakes, but you might want to add a bit more sugar to the custard filling to maintain the balanced sweetness typical of this Coconut Custard Pie Recipe.

What type of pie crust works best for this recipe?

An all-butter pie crust is ideal because it offers the perfect flaky texture and rich flavor that perfectly complements the custardy filling.

How do I know when the pie is fully baked?

The best indicator is inserting a knife or toothpick near the center of the pie; it should come out clean without wet custard clinging to it.

Can I make this pie ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely! This pie benefits from chilling, so making it a day ahead is a great idea—it actually helps the flavors develop more fully.

Is it necessary to use both vanilla and coconut flavorings?

While vanilla is essential to add warmth and depth, the coconut flavoring boosts the tropical profile. You can omit the coconut flavoring if you want a subtler coconut note, but together they make the pie truly shine.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Coconut Custard Pie Recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again to share with loved ones or simply enjoy as your own luscious treat. Its beautiful balance of creamy custard and toasty coconut nestled in a buttery crust offers a slice of pure bliss every time. So, roll up your sleeves, gather the ingredients, and get ready to whip up a pie that’s not just dessert—it’s a warm hug from the inside. Happy baking!

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