French Coconut Pie Recipe

This French Coconut Pie is a true showstopper, striking the perfect balance between indulgent sweetness, luscious creaminess, and the irresistible chew of toasted coconut. If you’re in the mood for something nostalgic yet remarkably easy, this pie will become your go-to for gatherings or a dreamy weeknight dessert. It celebrates humble pantry ingredients in the most extraordinary way—golden crust, a silky interior, and that signature coconut flavor that makes every bite unforgettable.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of French Coconut Pie lies in its simplicity—each ingredient brings something important to the table, from structure to that signature sweet coconut flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why they matter:

• Sweetened shredded coconut: Provides the pie’s signature chewy texture and that craveable coconut sweetness.
• Granulated sugar: Delivers the classic sweet punch—absolutely essential for the caramelized edges.
• Large eggs: Bind the filling together, giving it a custard-like, sliceable consistency.
• All-purpose flour: Just a touch for gentle thickening, ensuring the filling holds together beautifully.
• Unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness, moisture, and that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness to every bite.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors and rounds out the sweetness for true depth.
• White vinegar or lemon juice: Offers just enough acidity to cut through the sweetness, for a balanced bite.
• Unbaked 9-inch pie crust: The buttery cradle for all that dreamy coconut filling—store-bought or homemade both work wonders.

How to Make French Coconut Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by fitting your unbaked 9-inch pie crust into a pie pan. You can use a favorite homemade recipe or a quality store-bought crust for convenience. Press it gently into the pan, making sure there’s no air trapped underneath, and crimp the edges for a pretty finish. Set the prepared crust aside while you move on to the filling.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, crack in the eggs and give them a good whisk until they’re well beaten and silky. Add the granulated sugar and flour, whisking until smooth and no lumps remain. Then, stir in the melted butter—this will make your filling extra luscious. Pour in the vanilla extract and white vinegar (or lemon juice) for added depth and brightness. Finally, fold in the sweetened shredded coconut, making sure it’s fully incorporated for the perfect bite in every slice of French Coconut Pie.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

Pour the coconut filling right into the waiting pie crust, using a spatula to smooth out the top evenly. This helps the pie bake up with an irresistible golden crown—the signature look of French Coconut Pie.

Step 4: Bake

Transfer your pie to a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, watching for the magical transformation as the top turns golden and the center sets. If the edges brown too quickly, a loose piece of foil over the top will keep the crust perfect. You’ll know it’s done when the center doesn’t jiggle exuberantly and the edges are beautifully caramelized.

Step 5: Cool

Patience is key! Let your French Coconut Pie cool to room temperature—the filling will set a little more as it cools, creating that dreamy sliceable texture. For extra clean slices, you can chill it in the fridge for an hour or two before serving.

How to Serve French Coconut Pie

Garnishes

Dress up your French Coconut Pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. A sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or a few fresh berries add color and a playful contrast that your guests will love.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a vibrant fruit salad. If you’re feeling extra decadent, serve alongside a silky cup of coffee or chilled dessert wine that highlights the coconut’s natural richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking your French Coconut Pie in petite tart shells for a delightful, shareable treat at parties. You can also drizzle finished slices with a little melted chocolate or a quick citrus glaze to put your own twist on this classic dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover French Coconut Pie covered in the fridge for up to three days. The coconut keeps the filling moist while the crust stays nicely crisp, making for delicious next-day desserts (if there are any leftovers at all).

Freezing

To freeze, wrap cooled pie slices tightly in plastic wrap and another layer of foil. They’ll keep up to one month. Thaw slices in the fridge overnight for best results—this pie’s texture holds up wonderfully even after freezing.

Reheating

If you prefer your pie slightly warm, reheat individual slices in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 to 12 minutes. This revives the filling and crisp crust beautifully without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use unsweetened coconut instead?

Sweetened shredded coconut is key for the signature taste and texture of French Coconut Pie, but you could use unsweetened in a pinch. Just add a tablespoon or two more sugar to compensate and check for sweetness before baking.

Should I blind bake the crust first?

There’s no need to blind bake for this recipe! French Coconut Pie filling sets up nicely without pre-baking. Just ensure your crust is well chilled before filling to prevent sogginess.

Can I substitute lemon juice for the vinegar?

Absolutely—lemon juice brings a hint of citrus brightness that works wonderfully in French Coconut Pie. It’s a perfect swap, especially if you love a touch of tanginess.

How do I know when the pie is finished baking?

The pie is done when the edges are deep golden brown and the center looks mostly set with just a slight wobble. Trust your eyes and nose—your kitchen will smell like sweet coconut heaven.

Is French Coconut Pie gluten-free?

If you use a gluten-free pie crust and swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative, this pie can absolutely work for gluten-sensitive folks. The filling is naturally low in flour, so it adapts easily.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a timeless, crowd-pleasing treat, you truly can’t go wrong with French Coconut Pie. Its creamy, coconut-packed filling and golden crust have a way of drawing everyone back for seconds. Give it a try—you may just find your new signature dessert!