Name: Irresistible Cream of Coconut Pecan Pie for Tropical Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 170 min
Ingredients: 1 9 inch Frozen Deep Dish Pie Crust (For the perfect base.); 6 Tbsp Unsalted Butter (Adds richness and flavor; can substitute with margarine.); 1.25 cups Cream of Coconut (Ensure it's the cream of coconut, not coconut milk.); 0.5 cups Light Brown Sugar (Regular granulated sugar can be substituted.); 1 Tbsp All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-free all-purpose flour works well as a substitute.); 0.5 tsp Salt (Enhances overall flavor balance.); 3 Large Eggs (Lightly beaten to offer structure.); 0.5 tsp Coconut Extract (Vanilla extract makes a fine substitute.); 1 cup Sweetened Shredded Coconut (Offers texture and coconut flavor, divided.); 1.5 cups Chopped Pecans (Gives nutty flavor and crunch; walnuts can be used as an alternative.)

As I was piecing together my holiday dessert spread, a sudden craving for a sweet twist on tradition hit me—what if I could bring a slice of the tropics to my Thanksgiving table? Enter the Cream of Coconut Pecan Pie, where nutty, buttery goodness meets the lush flavor of coconut. This delightful fusion makes for an easy-to-prepare dessert that not only pleases the crowd but also adds a unique flair to your festive gatherings. Imagine serving a slice that’s rich and creamy, with just the right amount of crunch from pecans and a hint of sweetness without overwhelming the palate. Trust me; this pie will quickly become a go-to favorite in your holiday repertoire! Are you ready to discover how this tropical treat can transform your dessert game?

Why is this pie a holiday must-have?

Irresistible flavor: With a rich filling made from cream of coconut, this pie brings tropical bliss to your Thanksgiving table.
Easy to prepare: Even novice bakers can whip it up with just a few simple steps.
Crowd-pleaser: The combination of nutty pecans and creamy coconut is sure to impress family and friends.
Versatile variations: Consider swapping pecans for walnuts or adding mini chocolate chips for a decadent twist!
Make-ahead friendly: Bake it a day in advance and chill for a hassle-free dessert on the big day—just like with my Coconut Chocolate Rolls or Blueberry Cream Cheese!

Cream of Coconut Pecan Pie Ingredients

• Get ready to create your tropical delight!

For the Pie Crust

Frozen Deep Dish Pie Crust – Use a 9″ pie crust for the perfect base.

For the Filling

Unsalted Butter (6 Tbsp) – Adds richness and flavor; can substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
Cream of Coconut (1¼ cups) – The primary flavoring and sweetness source; ensure it’s the cream of coconut, not coconut milk, as they are not interchangeable.
Light Brown Sugar (½ cup) – Provides sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor; regular granulated sugar can be substituted.
All-Purpose Flour (1 Tbsp) – Acts as a thickening agent; gluten-free all-purpose flour works well as a substitute.
Salt (½ tsp) – Enhances overall flavor balance.
Large Eggs (3, lightly beaten) – Offers structure and richness to the filling.
Coconut Extract (½ tsp) – Intensifies the coconut flavor; vanilla extract makes a fine substitute.
Sweetened Shredded Coconut (1 cup, divided) – Offers texture and coconut flavor.
Chopped Pecans (1½ cups) – Gives nutty flavor and crunch; walnuts can be used as an alternative.

Get your ingredients ready and prepare for a delightful experience as you whip up this Cream of Coconut Pecan Pie!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cream of Coconut Pecan Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that by the time the Cream of Coconut Pecan Pie filling is ready, your oven is set to create the perfect environment for baking. While the oven warms up, place your frozen deep dish pie crust on a baking sheet for easier handling.

Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Keep a close eye on the butter as it melts; you’ll want it to turn a light brown color, signaling that it’s ready. This browning process adds a nutty flavor to your pie, enhancing the richness of your Cream of Coconut Pecan Pie.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once the butter is browned, remove the saucepan from the heat. Immediately whisk in 1¼ cups of cream of coconut, ½ cup of light brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour, and ½ teaspoon of salt until smooth. Allow this mixture to cool for about 5-10 minutes, so it doesn’t cook the eggs you will add next.

Step 4: Mix in Eggs and Coconut Extract
After the mixture has cooled slightly, add 3 lightly beaten large eggs and ½ teaspoon of coconut extract. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring a smooth and creamy filling for your pie. The blend of ingredients will create the foundation of your delightful Cream of Coconut Pecan Pie.

Step 5: Add Shredded Coconut and Pecans
Now it’s time to fold in 1½ cups of chopped pecans and ½ cup of sweetened shredded coconut into the filling. This step not only adds texture but also enhances the tropical flavor of your pie. Gently mix until all the ingredients are well-distributed, creating a delightful combination for your filling.

Step 6: Pour into Pie Crust
Carefully pour the prepared filling into the waiting pie crust on the baking sheet. Make sure to spread it evenly for consistent baking. This rich and fragrant filling is the heart of your Cream of Coconut Pecan Pie, ready to bake and develop that beautiful golden color.

Step 7: Bake the Pie
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on the pie; it’s ready when the center is set and appears dull. If the edges start to brown too quickly, loosely cover them with foil midway through baking to prevent burning.

Step 8: Cool and Refrigerate
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. After cooling, refrigerate the pie for about 2 hours until it firms up, making it easier to slice. This chilling step enhances the texture of your Cream of Coconut Pecan Pie, ensuring a smooth and satisfying experience.

Step 9: Prepare for Serving
As you prepare to serve, toast the remaining shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown. This will add a delightful crunch and depth of flavor. When ready, serve slices of the Cream of Coconut Pecan Pie with a generous dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle the toasted coconut on top for an impressive touch!

Cream of Coconut Pecan Pie Variations

Feel free to explore new flavors and textures that make this dessert truly yours!

Nutty Twist: Substitute chopped pecans with walnuts for a bolder nutty flavor. Walnuts provide a slightly different crunch while still complementing the creamy coconut filling beautifully.
Chocolate Delight: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for an indulgent twist. The chocolate pairs perfectly with the creamy coconut, creating an irresistible flavor combination.
Texture Surprise: Try using a graham cracker crust instead of the traditional pie crust. This change introduces a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness that elevates the tropical experience.
Dairy-Free Option: Swap unsalted butter with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative. This simple switch gives the pie a vegan-friendly twist without sacrificing flavor.
Extra Flavor Boost: Incorporate a splash of dark rum or coconut rum into the filling. The liquor enhances the tropical essence, giving your pie a sophisticated flair that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
Coconut-Heavy: Increase the shredded coconut to 1½ cups for a more pronounced coconut flavor and delightful texture throughout the pie. The extra coconut amplifies those tropical vibes!
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling to deepen the flavor profile. The warm spices create a cozy atmosphere, perfect for festive occasions.
Fruity Addition: Fold in some chopped tropical fruits like pineapple or mango pieces. This adds a refreshing burst of sweetness, making every bite feel like a mini-vacation!

Feel inspired? You can play around with these variations to suit your mood or the occasion! For more delightful dessert ideas, check out my Cream Puffs Vanilla or the sumptuous Lemon Caramel Cream.

How to Store and Freeze Cream of Coconut Pecan Pie

Fridge: Store your pie in the refrigerator, covered tightly, for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready to serve at a moment’s notice.

Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the pie after it has cooled completely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 2 months.

Thawing: To serve a frozen pie, transfer it to the fridge for 8–12 hours before enjoying. This gradual thaw helps preserve its creamy texture.

Reheating: If preferred warm, slice and microwave each piece for about 15-20 seconds, just enough to slightly warm the creamy filling without losing its delightful chill.

Make Ahead Options

Planning ahead with this Cream of Coconut Pecan Pie is a fantastic way to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the pie filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pie crust can also be pre-baked and kept at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just ensure the crust is completely cooled before wrapping it tightly. When you’re ready to serve, simply pour the prepared filling into the crust, bake as directed, and cool before chilling in the fridge for a couple of hours. The end result will be just as delicious, giving you a stress-free dessert option that your family will love!

What to Serve with Cream of Coconut Pecan Pie

Imagine the laughter of friends and family mingling with the sweet scent of coconut as you create a feast around this tropical-inspired dessert.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast, enhancing the pie’s rich flavors.
Tropical Fruit Salad: Bright and juicy pineapple, mango, and kiwi can balance the sweetness, offering a refreshing crunch.
Coffee or Espresso: The boldness of a well-brewed coffee or espresso makes a perfect companion, cutting through the creamy richness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over the warm pie, creating a luscious dessert experience.
Toasted Coconut Flakes: Serve alongside the pie for an extra layer of flavor and texture; these crunchy shavings enhance the coconut theme.
Mint Tea: Cooling mint tea can refresh the palate, making it a delightful contrast to the rich, buttery pie.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some warm chocolate sauce on each slice for an indulgent twist that complements the nuttiness of the pecans.
Candied Ginger: Adding pieces of candied ginger brings a spicy-sweet kick and an exotic flair that harmonizes with the coconut.
Ice-Cold Lemonade: Zesty lemonade refreshes the senses and balances the sweetness, making it a surprisingly delightful pairing!
Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of rich caramel over slices adds a sweet depth that plays beautifully with the pie’s tropical notes.

Expert Tips for Cream of Coconut Pecan Pie

Choose The Right Coconut: Ensure you buy cream of coconut rather than coconut milk for the right sweetness and texture in your Cream of Coconut Pecan Pie.
Butter Care: Pay close attention while browning the butter; it should be a light brown color without burning for an optimal flavor enhancement.
Egg Temperature: Let your filling cool for at least 5-10 minutes before adding the eggs to prevent them from scrambling in the warm mixture.
Pecan Alternatives: If you’re out of pecans, walnuts can provide a delicious alternative; adjust the quantity for personal preference.
Prevent Over-Browning: Use foil to cover the edges loosely if they begin to brown too quickly while baking, ensuring your pie cooks evenly.
Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the pie for a couple of hours after baking; this helps achieve a firmer texture for easy slicing and a more satisfying experience.

Cream of Coconut Pecan Pie Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best cream of coconut?
Absolutely! When choosing cream of coconut, look for brands that specifically state “cream of coconut” on the label, as it is sweeter and thicker than coconut milk. You can usually find it in the alcohol mixer aisle or the Asian food section of your grocery store. Also, give it a good shake before using, as it can separate.

What’s the best way to store leftover cream of coconut pecan pie?
Very! Store your Cream of Coconut Pecan Pie in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to prep ahead, feel free to bake it a couple of days in advance!

Can I freeze the cream of coconut pecan pie?
Absolutely! To freeze your pie, let it cool completely after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, transfer it to the fridge for 8–12 hours to thaw gradually, and it will be as good as new!

What should I do if the pie center doesn’t set while baking?
If your Cream of Coconut Pecan Pie doesn’t set, it might need a little extra time in the oven—sometimes a few more minutes can make all the difference! Keep an eye on the edges to ensure they don’t brown too quickly; if they do, cover them loosely with foil. Remember, an undercooked pie can usually be salvaged by returning it to the oven.

Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of with this recipe?
Definitely! This pie contains eggs and nuts, which are common allergens. If you’re serving this dessert to guests, be sure to check for nut allergies or offer a nut-free alternative by substituting walnuts with seeds like sunflower seeds for a similar crunch. And as always, double-check all ingredient labels for potential allergens.