Name: Coconut Meringue Pie
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 3 oz sweetened flaked coconut; 1.5 cups sugar; 0.25 cups cornstarch; dash salt; 2.5 cups milk; 4 egg yolks (lightly beaten (save whites)); 0.25 cups butter; 2 Tbsp light corn syrup; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 4 egg whites; 0.5 tsp cream of tartar; 0.25 tsp salt; 0.5 cups sugar

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something incredibly special about the way the light, airy texture of Coconut Meringue Pie dances on your palate. I still remember the first time I tasted this dessert at my grandmother’s house during a family gathering. The sweetness of the coconut mingled beautifully with the creaminess of the filling, while the meringue topping added a delightful crunch. It was love at first bite! With each forkful, I could taste the warmth of family traditions and the joy of shared moments. Making Coconut Meringue Pie at home allows me to relive those cherished memories, and trust me, it’s easier than you might think!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 30 mins

Prep Time:
60 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
16 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Oven, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Why This Coconut Meringue Pie Hits Different

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to adore Coconut Meringue Pie. Allow me to share a few of my favorites.

1. A Burst of Flavor

The combination of sweetened flaked coconut and a rich custard filling creates a flavor explosion that is simply divine. Each bite is a delightful mix of sweetness and creaminess that dances on your taste buds.

2. Light and Airy Meringue

The meringue topping is what truly sets this pie apart. Whipped until soft peaks form, it creates a cloud-like layer that melts in your mouth, providing a textural contrast to the creamy filling. It’s the perfect finish to a rich pie.

3. Nostalgic Comfort

Each time I bake this pie, I’m reminded of family gatherings and joyous celebrations. It’s a dessert that brings everyone together, creating memories around the table that last a lifetime.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a holiday feast, or simply a sweet treat on a rainy day, Coconut Meringue Pie fits the bill. It’s versatile and loved by all ages, making it the ideal dessert for any occasion.

5. Simple Ingredients, Stunning Results

You don’t need a pantry full of exotic ingredients to make this pie. With just a handful of staples like sugar, eggs, and milk, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes impressive.

What’s In This Coconut Meringue Pie

The ingredients in Coconut Meringue Pie come together to create a deliciously satisfying experience. The star of the show is undoubtedly the coconut, which adds a distinct flavor and chewiness to the filling. The milk and egg yolks work together to create a creamy base, while the meringue adds an airy touch that balances the richness. Each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the perfect pie.

3-oz sweetened flaked coconut: This adds a delightful sweetness and chewy texture to the filling.
1-1/2 cups sugar: Essential for sweetness, it balances the flavors of the pie.
1/4 cup cornstarch: Acts as a thickening agent for the custard, giving it the perfect consistency.
dash salt: Enhances the sweetness and flavors of the pie.
2-1/2 cups milk: Creamy base for the filling, imparting richness.
4 egg yolks, lightly beaten: Contributes to the richness and helps thicken the custard.
1/4 cup butter: Adds depth of flavor and enhances the creaminess.
2 Tbsp light corn syrup: Provides sweetness and a smooth texture to the filling.
2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a lovely aroma and sweetness.
1 baked 9-inch pie shell: The vessel for all those delicious fillings!
4 egg whites: Transforms into meringue, creating a light, fluffy topping.
1/2 tsp cream of tartar: Stabilizes the egg whites for meringue that holds its shape.
1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness in the meringue.
1/2 cup sugar: Sweetens the meringue, creating that perfect, glossy finish.

Cooking Instructions for Coconut Meringue Pie

Making Coconut Meringue Pie is a rewarding experience, and I can’t wait to share the steps with you. Let’s dive into the process, ensuring you create a pie that will impress everyone. Each step is designed to guide you through making this delightful dessert effortlessly.

Preheat your oven to 325ºF. This step is crucial as it prepares the environment for baking your pie, ensuring it cooks evenly.
In a large saucepan, combine 1-1/2 cups sugar, coconut, cornstarch, milk, egg yolks, butter, and corn syrup. Stir these ingredients together until they’re well blended.
Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly. Watch as the butter melts and the custard thickens. This is where the magic happens! You want to ensure you don’t rush this step, as it’s crucial for achieving the right texture.
Once the mixture is thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in vanilla extract. This adds a delightful flavor to your filling. Pour the warm custard into the baked pie shell, spreading it evenly.
Now, let’s prepare the meringue. In a clean bowl, beat egg whites, cream of tartar, and 1/4 tsp salt at high speed until soft peaks form. This means when you lift the beaters out of the mixture, it should form peaks that bend over.
Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat the egg whites. Keep an eye on the texture; you’re looking for stiff peaks that stand tall when you pull out the beaters.
Once stiff peaks form, spread the meringue over the pie filling. Make sure to seal it to the edge of the pastry crust to prevent shrinking during baking.
Place the pie in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 28 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown. Watch it closely, as ovens can vary.
After baking, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely. This is key to allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Store your delicious Coconut Meringue Pie in the refrigerator until ready to serve. This will keep it fresh and ready for enjoyment!

Things Worth Knowing

Be patient while cooking the custard—stir constantly and keep the heat medium to avoid burning.
Ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean before beating the egg whites; any grease can prevent them from whipping properly.
For the perfect meringue, avoid overbeating once stiff peaks form; otherwise, it can become dry and grainy.
Cool the pie completely at room temperature before refrigerating to avoid weeping meringue.

Variations to Try

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are several delightful variations you can explore with Coconut Meringue Pie. Let’s unleash your creativity in the kitchen!

Add Chocolate: Swirl in some melted chocolate into the custard for a decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
Try Other Flavors: Experiment with different extracts like almond or coconut for a unique flavor profile.
Fruit Toppings: Top your pie with fresh fruits like raspberries or mango for a refreshing contrast.
Toast the Coconut: For an enhanced flavor, toast the coconut before adding it to the filling.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pie crust if you’re looking for a gluten-free dessert.
Mini Pies: Make individual mini pies using muffin tins for a fun presentation at gatherings.

What to Serve Alongside Coconut Meringue Pie

Knowing how to serve Coconut Meringue Pie can elevate your dining experience to another level. Let’s explore some delightful pairings and occasions!

Light Salad: Pair your pie with a fresh, light salad for a well-rounded meal. Think spinach with strawberries for a beautiful contrast.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream on the side can complement the flavors beautifully.
Tea or Coffee: Serve your pie with a warm cup of tea or coffee; the warmth balances the coolness of the pie.
Picnic Treat: Bring Coconut Meringue Pie to your next picnic for a refreshing dessert that’s sure to impress.
Summer BBQ: This pie is a fantastic addition to summer barbecue spreads, providing a sweet touch to the savory fare.
Holiday Delight: Serve it during festive gatherings or holiday dinners for a sweet end to your celebrations.

FAQ

Using unsweetened coconut is possible, but it will alter the flavor profile of your Coconut Meringue Pie. If you prefer a less sweet pie, go ahead and use it. Just keep in mind that the pie’s signature sweetness comes from the sweetened coconut.

To prevent your meringue from weeping, it’s crucial to ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are clean and free of grease. Additionally, make sure the meringue is spread all the way to the edges of the pie crust. This seals it and prevents moisture from getting in. Finally, cooling the pie completely before refrigerating helps maintain the meringue’s texture.

If your meringue isn’t forming stiff peaks, ensure that there’s no fat or grease in the bowl or on the beaters. Also, make sure you’re using room temperature egg whites, as they whip up better. Adding a pinch of cream of tartar can help stabilize the meringue, ensuring it holds its shape.

To store leftover Coconut Meringue Pie, cover it gently with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within three days, as the meringue can start to lose its texture over time. Just remember, the pie is best fresh!

Conclusion

The Coconut Meringue Pie is truly a delightful dessert that balances flavors and textures beautifully. It’s a fantastic way to indulge your sweet tooth while also evoking fond memories. I encourage you to try making this pie for yourself or for loved ones. You’ll find that every bite brings joy and comfort, making it a must-have recipe in your collection.