Old-Fashioned Coconut Cream Pie

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Garnish:

• Toasted coconut flakes (for garnish)
• Shaved chocolate (optional for a touch of decadence)

Instructions:

1. Make the Pie Crust:

• In a medium bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together.
• Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it a few times to bring it together. Shape it into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges.
• Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork and line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Fill it with pie weights or dried beans to prevent shrinking.
• Bake the crust for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool completely.

2. Prepare the Coconut Cream Filling:

• In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk the mixture over medium heat until it comes to a simmer, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
• In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually pour a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper them.
• Slowly pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking continuously until the filling thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
• Once the filling has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and shredded coconut. Stir until the butter is fully melted and the coconut is well incorporated.
• Pour the coconut filling into the cooled pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is fully set.

3. Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping:

• In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat the cream.
• Spread the whipped cream evenly over the set coconut cream filling.

4. Garnish and Serve:

• For extra texture and flavor, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top of the whipped cream. If desired, add a few shavings of chocolate for a touch of elegance.
• Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Old-Fashioned Coconut Cream Pie:

1. Toasted Coconut: Toasting the coconut before adding it to the filling or as a garnish brings out its natural sweetness and adds a deeper flavor. Simply place shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat and stir until it turns golden brown.
2. Chill the Pie: Be sure to let the pie set in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. This will allow the coconut cream filling to firm up and allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Making Ahead: This coconut cream pie can easily be made a day in advance, making it a great choice for parties and special occasions. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
4. Crust Variations: While this recipe calls for a homemade pie crust, you can also use a store-bought pie crust or a graham cracker crust for a faster version. Both will still yield delicious results!
5. Egg Yolks: Be sure to temper the egg yolks properly by gradually adding some of the hot liquid to them before returning them to the saucepan. This prevents them from curdling and ensures a smooth filling.

Why Old-Fashioned Coconut Cream Pie is a Favorite:

Old-Fashioned Coconut Cream Pie is a dessert that has stood the test of time for a reason. It’s the perfect combination of rich, creamy texture and sweet, nutty coconut flavor. Whether you’re looking to impress at a family gathering or just indulge in something special, this pie is guaranteed to be a hit.

The creamy coconut filling, paired with the buttery, flaky crust and topped with fresh whipped cream, creates a dessert that’s not only visually stunning but also incredibly satisfying to eat. It’s the kind of treat that takes you back to simpler times, where baking in the kitchen and sharing a slice of pie was the highlight of the day.

So, the next time you’re craving a classic dessert that combines nostalgia and indulgence, whip up this Old-Fashioned Coconut Cream Pie. It’s sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire!