Embark on a culinary journey back in time with our Old-Fashioned Coconut Pie recipe. This timeless dessert captures the essence of days gone by, offering a delightful combination of rich coconut flavor and a flaky, golden crust. Perfect for family gatherings or when you crave a comforting treat, this pie is a testament to the simple joys of homemade baking. Join us as we explore the ingredients, guide you through the step-by-step instructions, share cook notes and variations, and provide keto and low-carb adaptations. Rediscover the warmth and nostalgia of an Old-Fashioned Coconut Pie that promises to transport you to a bygone era with every heavenly bite.
Ingredients
For the Pie Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 pre-made or homemade pie crust (9 inches)
Instructions
Crafting Old-Fashioned Coconut Pie:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Pie Crust: If using a pre-made crust, follow the package instructions for blind baking. If making a homemade crust, roll it out and press it into a 9-inch pie pan. Crimp the edges for a decorative finish.
- Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded coconut, whole milk, granulated sugar, flour, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Pour into Pie Crust: Pour the coconut filling into the prepared pie crust, ensuring an even distribution.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. If the crust edges start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil.
- Cool and Set: Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack. The filling will continue to set as it cools.
- Slice and Serve: Once fully cooled, slice the Old-Fashioned Coconut Pie into wedges. Serve at room temperature or chilled, depending on your preference.
Cook Notes
- Coconut Toastiness: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the shredded coconut before incorporating it into the filling. Simply spread the coconut on a baking sheet and bake it in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
- Pie Crust Perfection: If using a pre-made crust, brush it lightly with beaten egg white before blind baking to create a protective layer that helps keep the crust crisp.
- Custard Consistency: To achieve a smooth custard consistency, mix the ingredients thoroughly but avoid overmixing, as it can lead to a dense texture.
Variations
1. Nutty Crunch:
Add a textural contrast by incorporating a handful of chopped toasted pecans or almonds into the coconut filling.
2. Citrus Infusion:
Elevate the flavor profile by adding a teaspoon of grated orange or lemon zest to the filling for a citrusy twist.
3. Chocolate Drizzle:
Indulge your sweet tooth by drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled pie for a decadent touch.
Keto Versions
For those embracing a keto lifestyle, consider these modifications:
- Almond Flour Crust: Replace the traditional pie crust with a keto-friendly almond flour crust for a low-carb alternative.
- Low-Carb Sweeteners: Substitute granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit to achieve the desired sweetness without the carbs.
- Coconut Flour Swap: Use coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour in the filling to reduce the carb content.
Low-Carb Version
To cater to low-carb preferences, make these adjustments:
- Crustless Delight: Skip the crust altogether for a crustless version of the Old-Fashioned Coconut Pie that’s lower in carbs.
- Creamy Coconut Milk: Opt for unsweetened coconut milk instead of whole milk to minimize the carb content while maintaining the coconut flavor.
- Stevia Sweetening: Choose a low-carb sweetener like stevia to sweeten the filling without adding extra carbs.
Old-Fashioned Coconut Pie is not just a dessert; it’s a sweet reminder of cherished traditions and the joy of homemade baking. Whether you stick to the classic recipe, explore enticing variations, or adapt it to keto and low-carb lifestyles, this pie is a slice of comfort and nostalgia. So, preheat your oven, gather the ingredients, and relish the simplicity of an Old-Fashioned Coconut Pie that brings a touch of the past to your present. Here’s to the timeless allure of a dessert that transcends generations and continues to fill homes with the warmth of coconut-infused bliss!
