Toasting half the coconut before it goes in the custard is what separates a real coconut pie from a pale one; the toast brings a nutty depth raw shreds never have. Cook the pastry cream until it bubbles thickly so the pie slices clean.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep30 min
Cook25 min
Makes1 nine-inch pie
CuisineAmerican
Cost$
Vegetarian
Contains dairy · eggs · gluten
Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy, and a flax or aquafaba egg for the egg.
Make it gluten-free: swap in a gluten-free flour blend (check the other labels too).
A reasonable little indulgence. · plan ahead — needs marinating, soaking, or resting time
EffortA project
Cook it with
One-potSheet pan
The Method
Toast the coconutSpread coconut on a sheet and toast at 325F for 6-8 min, shaking once, until half of it is golden; set the toasted half aside for topping.
Blind-bake the crustBake the weighted crust at 375F for 20 min, pull the weights, and bake 8 min more until dry and gold.
Cook the custardWhisk sugar and cornstarch into the milk, simmer, temper in yolks, and cook until it bubbles and thickens.
Fold and fillOff the heat stir in butter, vanilla and the untoasted coconut, then pour into the crust and press plastic to the surface.
Chill and topRefrigerate 4 hours, then top with whipped cream and the reserved toasted coconut.
Can you make Coconut Cream Pie in an air fryer? — Sometimes
You can, but a custard needs gentle, even heat and usually a water bath the basket can’t give, so the top tends to set before the middle. Bake it in ramekins that fit and watch closely, or use the oven for a foolproof set.
Can you freeze Coconut Cream Pie? — Not ideal
Not really — the cream, custard, or emulsion turns grainy or splits once thawed. This one is best kept fresh in the fridge.
Can you make Coconut Cream Pie ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — bake it a day or two ahead; it keeps well-wrapped at room temperature and freezes cleanly. Add any frosting or glaze close to serving.
Is Coconut Cream Pie gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in a gluten-free flour blend (check the other labels too).
Is Coconut Cream Pie vegan? — Vegetarian, not vegan
It’s vegetarian but not vegan as written — it has dairy and egg. Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy, and a flax or aquafaba egg for the egg.
Community Notes
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