Chocolate Coconut Pecan Cream Pie

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pie crust according to package instructions until it’s golden brown. Allow it to cool completely.
In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt until combined.
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring it’s smooth and blended well.
Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and reaches a boil—this should take about 7-10 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Slowly whisk about 1 cup of the hot mixture into the egg yolks to temper them.
Return the tempered egg yolk mixture back to the saucepan and continue cooking over medium heat, stirring constantly, for an additional 2 minutes.
Take it off the heat and stir in the chopped chocolate and vanilla extract until completely smooth.
Fold in the shredded coconut and half of the toasted pecans.
Pour your filling into the cooled pie crust, smoothing out the top, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until it’s set.
In a separate mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled pie and sprinkle with the remaining toasted pecans on top.
Serve chilled and enjoy the indulgence!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Chocolate Coconut Pecan Cream Pie is a treat best served chilled, allowing the flavors to harmonize beautifully. You can plate it with a drizzle of chocolate sauce, perhaps a sprinkle of cocoa powder, or fresh mint for an elegant touch. This pie pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine, making it perfect for an after-dinner dessert or a sweet afternoon snack.

How to Store & Freeze

To keep your pie fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It should stay good for about 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, slice the pie and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap before placing them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices in the fridge overnight.

Helpful Cooking Tips

For a deeper flavor, try using dark chocolate instead of bittersweet; it enhances the richness.
Make sure to whisk constantly while cooking the filling to prevent any lumps from forming.
Toast the pecans yourself for maximum flavor—just pop them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they’re fragrant.

Creative Twists

Feel free to get adventurous with this recipe! You can add a hint of coconut extract for a more pronounced coconut flavor or incorporate a layer of caramel sauce before adding the filling for an added twist. If you’re looking for a vegan version, consider using coconut milk and a vegan pie crust as alternatives!

Common Questions

What is the prep time for this pie?

The prep time is about 20 minutes, but you’ll need to refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours to let it set properly.

Can I substitute any ingredients?

Yes! You can use almond milk or coconut milk instead of whole milk. For the chocolate, feel free to use semi-sweet or dark chocolate based on your preference.

How long does the pie last in the fridge?

Stored properly, the pie will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you freeze it, it should maintain its quality for up to 2 months.