Coconut Meringue Pie That’s a Slice of Tropical Heaven
This Coconut Meringue Pie is a luscious, old-fashioned dessert made with a rich coconut custard filling and topped with fluffy, golden meringue. Nestled in a buttery pie crust, it’s sweet, silky, and perfect for any coconut lover!
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2½ cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 large egg whites (room temperature)
- ½ tsp cream of tartar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Coconut Filling: In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 5–7 minutes).
- Temper the Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks. Slowly add about ½ cup of the hot mixture into the yolks while whisking quickly to temper. Pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan and cook for 2 more minutes, stirring constantly.
- Finish the Filling: Remove from heat. Stir in butter, vanilla extract, and shredded coconut. Pour the filling into the pre-baked pie crust.
- Make the Meringue: In a clean mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar on high speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Beat in vanilla.
- Top and Bake: Spoon the meringue over the hot filling, making sure to spread it all the way to the crust edges to seal. Use a spatula to create decorative swirls. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, until the meringue is golden.
- Cool and Chill: Let the pie cool at room temperature for 1 hour. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Always spread meringue over warm filling to help prevent weeping.
- Lightly toast extra coconut and sprinkle on top for garnish.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Sugar: 31g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 105mg