If you love coconut and crave a pie that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious, look no further than this French Coconut Pie! With its flaky crust, sweet coconut filling, and creamy texture, it’s a dessert that brings pure comfort to the table.
This classic Southern dessert has a custard-like filling that comes together with simple ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion – from family dinners to holiday celebrations. Let’s bake this dreamy pie!
Why You’ll Love This French Coconut Pie
- Easy to Make: With basic pantry ingredients, this pie is a breeze to whip up.
- Perfect Texture: The filling is creamy, custardy, and packed with shredded coconut for a chewy bite.
- Rich, Sweet Flavor: A hint of vanilla and butter complements the coconut beautifully.
- Versatile: Serve it warm, at room temperature, or chilled – it’s delicious any way you slice it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pie:
- 1 9-inch pie crust (unbaked): Use store-bought for convenience or homemade if you prefer.
- 1 cup shredded coconut: Sweetened for extra sweetness or unsweetened for a more natural coconut flavor.
- 1/2 cup sugar: Sweetens the custard filling.
- 2 eggs: Helps create a creamy, custard-like texture.
- 1/2 cup milk: Adds creaminess to the filling.
- 1/4 cup butter, melted: Adds richness to the pie.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For warmth and aroma.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
Tools You’ll Need
- A 9-inch pie dish
- Mixing bowls
- A whisk or hand mixer
- A spatula or spoon
How to Make French Coconut Pie
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the unbaked pie crust in your 9-inch pie dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and salt until well combined.
- Stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold in the shredded coconut until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Pour the filling mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
Place the pie in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden. The center should jiggle slightly but firm up as it cools.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing. Serve it warm, at room temperature, or chilled from the fridge.
Tips for the Perfect French Coconut Pie
- Prevent Overbaking: Keep an eye on the pie in the last 5–10 minutes to avoid overbaking. The edges should be golden, and the center should be just set.
- Customize the Sweetness: Use sweetened coconut for a sweeter pie or unsweetened coconut for a less sugary version.
- Add a Zesty Twist: Stir in a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest for a bright citrusy flavor.
- For a Crispy Crust: Brush the edges of the crust with an egg wash before baking for a golden, shiny finish.
Serving Suggestions
This pie is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it with:
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy contrast.
- Fresh Berries: Serve with strawberries or raspberries for a tart, fruity balance.
- Ice Cream: Pair with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftover pie in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a pre-made pie crust?
Absolutely! A store-bought crust works perfectly and saves time.
Can I make this pie dairy-free?
Yes! Use plant-based milk (like almond or coconut milk) and substitute the butter with a vegan alternative.
Can I add other flavors?
Definitely. Add a teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty twist, or sprinkle toasted coconut on top for extra texture.
Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Sugar: 20g
Final Thoughts
This French Coconut Pie is a deliciously simple dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re a coconut lover or just looking for a sweet, comforting treat, this pie is sure to win you over.
If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your photos and tag me on Instagram or Pinterest, and let me know if you added your own creative twist.
Happy baking! 🥥✨