Easy Barefoot Contessa Coconut Cream Pie Recipe for Sweet Bliss

Coconut cream pie transforms ordinary dessert into a tropical paradise of pure indulgence.

Rich, velvety custard nestled in a buttery crust promises a delectable journey for sweet enthusiasts.

Silky smooth filling celebrates the luxurious essence of toasted coconut, blending creamy textures with subtle nutty undertones.

Each generous slice whispers promises of decadent comfort and nostalgic warmth.

Delicate layers meld together, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors that dance across your palate.

Home bakers can effortlessly craft this elegant dessert that balances sophistication with comforting simplicity.

Weekend gatherings deserve something extraordinary that sparks conversation and delights taste buds: dive into this irresistible coconut cream pie experience.

Why Contessa Coconut Cream Pie Is a Crowd-Pleaser

• Savor Tropical Texture Delight: The pie offers a dreamy combination of creamy filling and crunchy toasted coconut, creating an irresistible contrast that dances on your taste buds.
• Craft a Simple Gourmet Experience: With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can transform ordinary baking into an impressive dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a professional bakery.
• Celebrate Make-Ahead Magic: This coconut cream pie is perfect for stress-free entertaining, as it requires minimal last-minute preparation and can be completely made ahead of time, giving you more moments to enjoy with guests.
• Indulge in Versatile Comfort: Whether you're hosting a summer gathering, family dinner, or craving a sweet treat, this pie delivers a comforting yet sophisticated dessert that appeals to coconut lovers of all ages.

All You Need for Contessa Coconut Cream Pie

• Graham Cracker Crust: Classic base for creamy pies with a sweet, crunchy texture. Store-bought or homemade options work well.

• Half-and-Half: Creamy dairy product that creates a rich, smooth pie filling. Choose fresh, high-quality dairy for best results.
• Sugar: Sweetens the filling and helps with thickening. Granulated white sugar is standard.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the custard filling and provide structure. Sifted flour prevents lumps.
• Eggs: Crucial for binding and creating a smooth, custardy texture. Fresh eggs work best.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness. Use fine table salt.

• Sweetened Coconut: Adds tropical flavor and texture. Choose shredded or flaked variety for toasting. Fresh coconut provides the best flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Brings depth and warmth to the pie's flavor. Pure vanilla extract recommended over artificial.

• Whipped Cream: Light, airy topping that complements the rich coconut filling. Freshly whipped cream preferred over store-bought.

Simple Steps for Contessa Coconut Cream Pie

Step 1: Prepare Toasted Coconut

Crank up your oven to 350°F. Spread shredded coconut evenly on a baking sheet. Slide into the oven and bake for 5 minutes, watching carefully until the coconut turns a gorgeous golden brown. Stir occasionally to ensure even toasting.

Step 2: Create Creamy Filling Base

• Half-and-half
• Sugar
• All-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• Salt

Cook over low heat, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue stirring for about 2 minutes until the mixture starts to thicken and coats the back of a spoon.

Step 3: Enhance Filling Flavor

• Of the freshly toasted coconut
• Vanilla extract

Mix thoroughly to distribute coconut and vanilla evenly throughout the creamy mixture.

Step 4: Chill and Set Pie

Pour the luscious filling into a pre-baked pie crust. Refrigerate for 4 hours or until the filling is completely set and firm.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

Top the chilled pie with a generous layer of whipped cream. Sprinkle the remaining toasted coconut over the top for a beautiful, crunchy garnish. Serve chilled and enjoy your tropical dessert masterpiece!

Pro Tips for Contessa Coconut Cream Pie

• Sprinkle Strategically: Top the pie with freshly toasted coconut moments before serving to maximize crunch and flavor intensity.
• Chill Wisely: Rest the pie in the refrigerator overnight to allow custard to set completely and develop deeper coconut notes.
• Heat Gently: Cook filling slowly over low temperature to prevent egg curdling and maintain ultra-smooth custard consistency.
• Stir Continuously: Keep whisking filling mixture constantly to eliminate potential lumps and create silky, even texture.
• Toast Carefully: Monitor coconut closely during baking, as it can transform from golden to burnt in mere seconds.

Maintaining Contessa Coconut Cream Pie

• Refrigerator Protection Method: Create a dedicated pie shelf away from pungent ingredients like onions or garlic. Cover the pie completely with a tight-fitting clear dome or aluminum foil to prevent moisture absorption and maintain its pristine texture. Seal edges carefully to block air exposure.
• Freezing Method: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place inside an airtight container for freezer storage up to 2 months. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator overnight to preserve whipped cream's delicate structure and prevent soggy crust condensation.
• Serving Preservation Method: Store pie at consistent 40°F temperature. Remove from refrigerator 15-20 minutes before serving to allow slight temperature adjustment, which enhances flavor and restores whipped cream's fluffy consistency. Consume within 3-4 days for optimal taste and quality.

Tasty Variations on Contessa Coconut Cream Pie

• Tropical Paradise Pie: Swap half-and-half with coconut milk for an intensified coconut flavor. Add diced fresh pineapple between the filling and whipped topping for a bright, fruity kick.
• Caribbean Rum Coconut Pie: Incorporate a splash of dark rum into the filling for a sophisticated adult version. Garnish with caramelized rum-soaked coconut flakes for extra depth.
• Chocolate Coconut Dream: Mix in melted dark chocolate to the filling for a rich, decadent variation. Top with chocolate shavings and toasted coconut for a beautiful contrast.
• Nutty Coconut Crunch: Blend chopped macadamia or almonds into the toasted coconut topping. Drizzle the pie with a light honey glaze to enhance the nutty, sweet profile.

Parting Thoughts on Contessa Coconut Cream Pie

Culinary magic emerges from Ina Garten’s coconut cream pie, a dessert that whispers tropical dreams with each silky slice.

Creamy textures and golden toasted coconut create an irresistible harmony of flavors dancing across palates.

Delicate layers of richness promise pure indulgement with every carefully crafted bite.

Garten’s signature touch elevates this classic recipe beyond ordinary dessert expectations.

Sweet memories linger long after the last crumb disappears from plates.

When you encounter this heavenly pie, snap a photo, share the deliciousness with friends on social media, and let fellow dessert enthusiasts discover this magnificent creation through comments and likes.

Barefoot Contessa Coconut Cream Pie Recipe

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4.5 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Ina Garten’s coconut cream pie delivers a luxurious tropical dessert dream with silky coconut custard nestled in a buttery crust. Flaky pastry, rich cream, and toasted coconut flakes create a heavenly slice that transports you to a beachside paradise with each delightful bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 3 cups half-and-half
• 1 (9 inch) pie shell, baked
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut

Sweeteners and Thickeners:

• ¾ cup white sugar
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Flavor Enhancers and Toppings:

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup frozen whipped topping, thawed

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and evenly distribute shredded coconut on a rimmed baking sheet, ensuring a uniform layer for consistent toasting.
2. Monitor the coconut carefully while baking, stirring occasionally to prevent uneven browning, and remove from the oven when the flakes turn a delicate golden hue, approximately 5-7 minutes.
3. In a medium saucepan, whisk together half-and-half, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, large eggs, and a pinch of kosher salt until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
4. Place the saucepan over low heat, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon to prevent scorching and ensure even thickening of the custard base.
5. Continue cooking the mixture for 2-3 minutes until it reaches a slightly thickened consistency, resembling a light pudding texture.
6. Remove the saucepan from heat and fold in 3/4 cup of the freshly toasted coconut flakes along with pure vanilla extract, creating a rich, aromatic filling.
7. Transfer the coconut custard into the prepared pie shell, using a spatula to spread it evenly and eliminate any air pockets.
8. Refrigerate the pie for 4-5 hours, allowing the filling to set completely and develop a firm, creamy texture.
9. Before serving, generously top the chilled pie with whipped cream and sprinkle the remaining toasted coconut over the surface for a decorative and crunchy finish.

Notes

• Let the pie cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation and soggy crust.
• Garnish with coconut flakes just before serving to maintain their crisp texture.
• Room temperature ingredients ensure a smoother, more consistent filling without lumps.
• Refrigerating overnight allows flavors to develop and filling to set perfectly.
• Toasting coconut intensifies its nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the dessert.
• Prepare whipped topping at the last minute for maximum volume and freshness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 364
• Sugar: 21 g
• Sodium: 162 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 16 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 71 mg