Every time I make Grammie’s Coconut Pie, I can’t help but smile as I remember the sun-drenched afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen. The warm smells of coconut and vanilla would drift through the air, wrapping around us like a comforting hug. It was our family tradition to gather around the table, laughter mixing with the sweet aroma, as we eagerly awaited the first slice of that creamy delight. If you’re looking to recreate that nostalgic feeling in your own home, you’re in for a treat! This pie is the perfect blend of simplicity and decadence, and I promise it will bring a similar warmth to your kitchen. When you make this recipe, I know your family will adore it as much as mine does. Let’s dive into making this magnificent pie together!
How to make Grammie’s Coconut Pie
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Shredded coconut | 1 1/2 cups |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Milk | 3/4 cup |
| Unsalted butter, melted | 1/4 cup |
| Large eggs | 3 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Pie crust | 1 (store-bought or homemade) |
| Optional: Whipped cream | For serving |
Personal note: I love adding a touch of cinnamon to the coconut mixture—it gives it that extra hint of warmth that makes it truly special!
Cooking Steps
1. Preheat the Oven
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Trust me, this step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden top on your pie. It gets the oven nice and warm for our pie to bake beautifully!
2. Prepare Your Ingredients
Set out your ingredients so everything is within reach. The rhythm of cooking flows so much better when you have everything in place.
3. Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk it all together until it’s well combined and smooth. Feel free to be a bit vigorous; it’s therapeutic!
4. Add the Coconut
Now, gently fold in the shredded coconut. This is where the magic happens! The coconut adds a wonderful, chewy texture that complements the creaminess of the filling.
5. Pour into the Pie Crust
Take a moment to admire your filling before you pour it into your pie crust. I prefer using a pre-made crust for this recipe—it saves time and still tastes divine. Carefully pour the coconut mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake the Pie
Slide your pie into the preheated oven. Let it bake for about 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown, and the filling is set. Keep an eye out, as ovens can vary.
7. Let it Cool
Once it’s out of the oven, let your pie cool completely on a wire rack. This allows the filling to firm up and makes it easier to slice.
8. Optional: Top with Whipped Cream
If you really want to treat your family (or yourself!), top each slice with a generous dollop of whipped cream before serving. It adds a wonderful lightness to the rich pie!
9. Slice and Serve
Gather your loved ones around, slice up your beautiful pie, and enjoy the smiles that come with each serving. When you share this pie, I promise you’ll see eyes light up with delight!
Why I Love Making This Dish
There’s something so magical about making Grammie’s Coconut Pie. It’s not just about the pie itself; it’s about the memories that come flooding back with every bake. This recipe has been a family staple for generations, passed down from my grandmother to my mother, and now to me. Each time I whip it up, I’m reminded of the love and care that went into creating it during family gatherings. It makes me feel connected to my roots, and I hope it does the same for you when you make it. Cooking with heart brings so much joy!
What You’ll Need
For this pie, you’ll need a few special tools:
Mixing bowls: A good-sized bowl for mixing your ingredients.
Whisk: For combining everything smoothly.
Pie dish or pan: To bake your pie to perfection.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is key in baking, so don’t skip these!
Step-by-Step Guide
Let’s break down the steps again in a simple way.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Gather and prepare your ingredients.
- Mix sugar, milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- Fold in the shredded coconut.
- Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes.
- Allow to cool on a rack.
- Optionally, top with whipped cream.
- Slice and enjoy with loved ones!
Tips for Perfect Results
I’ve gathered a few personal tips over the years that have helped me perfect this pie, and I’d love to share them with you:
Let it cool completely: This is key! Allowing your pie to sit helps the filing set, making for clean slices.
Add a pinch of salt: A little salt in the filling balances out the sweetness and brings out the flavors wonderfully.
Use fresh coconut if you can: If you’re feeling adventurous, fresh coconut will elevate this pie’s flavor and texture. Just be sure to shred it finely!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
This pie is delightful on its own, but here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:
Pair with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream complements the pie beautifully; the cold creaminess contrasts perfectly with the warm pie.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds a refreshing touch to your meal and balances the richness of the pie. Just toss together your favorite seasonal fruits.
Coffee or Tea: Enjoying a slice of pie with a warm cup of coffee or tea feels like a cozy indulgence. It’s the perfect comfort food combo!
Leftovers
If by some chance you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), storing them is super simple. Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply take it out, let it sit at room temperature for a bit, or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer it warm.
FAQ Section
Can I use sweetened shredded coconut instead of unsweetened?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that it will make your filling a bit sweeter, which isn’t a bad thing if you love sweetness!
What can I do if my pie cracks?
No worries! If it cracks, you can always cover it up with whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted coconut. It’ll still taste fabulous!
Can I freeze this pie?
Yes, you can! Just make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Conclusion
I hope you’re feeling inspired to try making Grammie’s Coconut Pie in your own kitchen! This dish has become a beloved favorite in my house, and I can’t wait for you to create your own beautiful memories surrounding it. It’s not only easy to make but also an absolute delight to eat. I’m excited for you to share it with your family, and I know they’ll be eagerly asking for seconds, just like mine do every single time. If you do give it a try, please let me know how it turns out! Your kitchen will be filled with love, laughter, and the sweet aroma of coconut goodness. Happy baking!