Old Fashioned Coconut Cream Pie

Introduction

Indulge in the rich flavors of the past with our Old Fashioned Coconut Cream Pie, a dessert that combines the simplicity of everyday ingredients with the elegance of a bygone era. This classic pie is a masterclass in balance and flavor, with the sweetness of coconut, the tang of cream, and the crunch of toasted nuts all coming together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to impress with its ease of preparation and stunning results.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors in this pie is unparalleled, with the coconut and cream working together in perfect harmony to create a dessert that is both rich and refreshing.
• The ingredients used in this recipe are easily accessible and require minimal preparation, making it a great option for those short on time.
• Despite its impressive appearance and flavor, this pie requires minimal effort to prepare, making it a great option for special occasions or everyday desserts.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup ice-cold water
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional)
• Whipped cream, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Make the Crust – In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice-cold water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a ball. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Step 2: Roll Out the Crust – On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie dish and trim the edges to fit. Crimp the edges to form a decorative border.
3. Step 3: Prepare the Filling – In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
4. Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Pie – Pour the coconut cream filling into the pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
5. Step 5: Cool and Serve – Allow the pie to cool to room temperature on a wire rack. If desired, top with whipped cream and toasted nuts before serving.

Handy Tips

• To ensure a flaky crust, keep the butter and water cold and handle the dough as little as possible.
• If you find that your crust is too sticky, try adding a little more flour. If it’s too dry, try adding a little more water.
• To toast the nuts, simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned.

Heat Control

When baking the pie, it’s essential to keep an eye on the temperature and timing to ensure that the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. If you’re unsure whether the pie is done, try gently jiggling the pie dish – if the filling is set, it should only jiggle slightly in the center.

Crunch Factor

The toasted nuts add a delightful crunch to the pie, but if you prefer a smoother texture, you can omit them or substitute with a different topping, such as shredded coconut or chocolate shavings.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To prevent the crust from shrinking during baking, try docking it with a fork before filling and baking.
• If you’re short on time, you can make the crust ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
• To ensure that the whipped cream holds its shape, try adding a little cornstarch or gelatin to the cream before whipping.

Storage Tips

• The pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. If freezing, try to freeze the pie before baking, as this will help preserve the texture of the crust.
• When reheating the pie, try to do so gently, as high heat can cause the filling to curdle or the crust to become soggy.
• The best containers for storing the pie are airtight glass or plastic containers, as these will help keep the pie fresh and prevent moisture from entering the container.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re looking to give the pie as a gift, try packaging it in a decorative tin or box, along with a few extra touches, such as a sprinkle of toasted nuts or a dollop of whipped cream. You could also consider adding a few extra goodies, such as a bag of gourmet coffee or a box of artisanal chocolates.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding a little liqueur, such as rum or Grand Marnier, to the filling for a grown-up twist on the classic pie.
• For a chocolate coconut cream pie, try adding a little cocoa powder or melted chocolate to the filling.
• If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Troubleshooting

• If the crust is too sticky, try adding a little more flour. If it’s too dry, try adding a little more water.
• If the filling is too runny, try baking the pie for a few more minutes. If it’s too thick, try stirring in a little more heavy cream.
• If the whipped cream is too stiff, try adding a little more heavy cream. If it’s too thin, try adding a little more cornstarch or gelatin.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the pie? Yes, the pie can be frozen for up to 2 months. Try to freeze the pie before baking, as this will help preserve the texture of the crust.
• Is the pie gluten-free? No, the pie contains all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can try substituting the flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, the recipe can be doubled or even tripled, depending on your needs. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

With its rich flavors, elegant presentation, and ease of preparation, the Old Fashioned Coconut Cream Pie is sure to become a new favorite in your household. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and versatility. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the ooohs and ahhhs from your family and friends as you serve up this delicious dessert.