Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Cut in Butter: Add the cold butter pieces to the bowl. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
- Chill the Dough: Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Roll Out the Crust
- Flour the Surface: Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking.
- Roll the Dough: Roll the dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter.
- Transfer to Pie Pan: Carefully place the rolled-out dough into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim the edges, leaving about an inch of overhang, and crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
- Blind Bake: To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, line it with parchment paper, fill it with pie weights or dried beans, and bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 10 minutes. Remove the weights and bake for another 5 minutes. Let cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- Whisk the Eggs: In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.
- Combine Sugar and Salt: Add the sugar and salt, whisking until fully combined.
- Add Milk and Coconut: Gradually stir in the milk, followed by the shredded coconut.
- Flavor the Custard: Mix in the vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Pie
- Pour the Filling: Pour the custard mixture into the prepared pie crust, ensuring the coconut is evenly distributed.
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 45-50 minutes. The pie is done when the center is slightly wobbly but set.
- Cool the Pie: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least an hour.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Optional Nutmeg: Sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg over the pie for an extra hint of flavor.
- Slice and Enjoy: Serve the pie at room temperature or chilled. It pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips for Success
- Use Cold Ingredients: For a flaky crust, ensure the butter and water are cold when preparing the dough.
- Even Cooking: If the edges of the crust brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie shield during baking.
- Make It Ahead: Coconut Custard Pie tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect dessert to prepare in advance.
Enjoy this creamy, dreamy Coconut Custard Pie—a dessert that captures the essence of tropical indulgence with every bite!
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