If you’re searching for a dessert that perfectly balances creamy, sweet, and a bit tropical flair, then this French Coconut Pie with Dulce de Leche Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine a golden, rich coconut custard baked in a flaky crust, topped with luscious dulce de leche drizzles that add a heavenly caramel twist. It’s a dessert that feels both elegant and comforting, ideal for sharing with friends or treating yourself to a slice of pure bliss. Every bite bursts with flavor and texture, making it one of those timeless recipes you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of straightforward yet indispensable ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating that signature texture and taste — from the buttery crust to the coconut’s delightful chew and the silky sweetness of dulce de leche.
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust: The flaky, buttery base that holds all the delicious filling together perfectly.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds the perfect amount of sweetness to balance the richness.
- 3 large eggs: Essential for setting the custard and giving it that lovely creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Brings richness and helps create a smooth filling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, inviting notes.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the custard, preventing it from being too runny.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavor.
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut: The star ingredient that adds chewy texture and tropical flair.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the filling and ensures a creamy consistency.
- 1/2 cup dulce de leche, warmed for drizzling: The irresistible caramel topping that brings everything together beautifully.
How to Make French Coconut Pie with Dulce de Leche Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your oven and crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your unbaked 9-inch pie crust into a pie dish and crimp the edges so it holds its shape during baking. This crust will provide the perfect crispy, buttery contrast to the creamy coconut filling.
Step 2: Mix the filling ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, flour, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This careful blending ensures the custard will be silky and rich.
Step 3: Add coconut and milk
Stir in the shredded coconut and milk until everything is evenly incorporated. This mixture is where the magic happens, combining creamy and chewy textures that make the pie so delightful.
Step 4: Fill and bake the pie
Pour the filling into your prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Bake the pie for 45 to 50 minutes, keeping an eye on the golden top and a slightly jiggly center—that’s how you know it’s perfectly set. The aroma alone will tell you something wonderful is baking.
Step 5: Cool and drizzle with dulce de leche
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Right before serving, warm the dulce de leche slightly and drizzle it generously on top. This sweet, caramel layer adds a stunning finishing touch both visually and flavor-wise.
How to Serve French Coconut Pie with Dulce de Leche Recipe
Garnishes
To make your French Coconut Pie with Dulce de Leche Recipe presentation feel extra special, try topping it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for crunch, or even a few toasted pecans or walnuts. These garnishes bring extra dimension and an elegant look.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with a light, fruity accompaniment such as fresh berries or a small fruit salad. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side creates a classic combination that wonderfully complements the pie’s richness without overwhelming it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual mini pies or tartlets using the same recipe in smaller containers. You can also create a pie sampler plate by offering thinner slices alongside other tropical-inspired desserts. Finally, consider drizzling additional dulce de leche artistically around the plate to add a gourmet touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before refrigerating. Properly stored, leftovers will stay fresh for up to 3 days, maintaining their creamy texture and delicious flavor.
Freezing
If you want to keep this French Coconut Pie with Dulce de Leche Recipe on hand for longer, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in a low-temperature oven (around 300°F/150°C) for about 10 minutes to refresh the crust’s crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can cause the custard to become rubbery.
FAQs
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free pie crust and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like almond meal or a gluten-free baking flour to keep it safe without compromising flavor.
Is it necessary to warm the dulce de leche before drizzling?
Warming the dulce de leche makes it easier to drizzle and creates a glossy, smooth finish on the pie. If it’s too thick or cold, it won’t spread beautifully and won’t have that luscious texture.
Can I use fresh coconut instead of shredded sweetened coconut?
Yes, fresh coconut will add a more natural and less sweet flavor, but be sure to chop it finely and possibly add a touch more sugar to balance the taste. Also, freshly grated coconut might produce more moisture, which can alter the texture slightly.
How long should I let the pie cool before serving?
Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature, ideally about 2 hours. This resting period helps the filling set perfectly and makes slicing cleaner and easier.
Can this pie be served chilled?
Yes, serving the pie slightly chilled is a popular choice, especially in warmer weather. Just keep in mind the texture might firm up a bit more, so bring it to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug but with a sophisticated twist, this French Coconut Pie with Dulce de Leche Recipe is here to brighten your day. It’s straightforward, show-stopping, and downright delicious — perfect for celebrations or cozy evenings at home. Give this recipe a try and enjoy every delightful bite with those you love!
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French Coconut Pie with Dulce de Leche Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This French Coconut Pie with Dulce de Leche is a rich and indulgent Southern dessert featuring a creamy coconut filling baked in a flaky pie crust and topped with a luscious drizzle of warm dulce de leche. Perfect for coconut lovers, this easy-to-make pie balances sweetness, texture, and a hint of caramel goodness, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup milk
Topping
- 1/2 cup dulce de leche, warmed for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking your pie evenly.
- Prepare the Pie Crust: Place the unbaked 9-inch pie crust into a pie dish, and crimp the edges neatly to create a decorative border that will hold the filling securely.
- Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, melted unsalted butter, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, and salt until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined.
- Add Coconut and Milk: Stir in the sweetened shredded coconut and milk into the egg mixture, blending thoroughly to create an even filling.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the coconut filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly for consistent baking.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center—this ensures a creamy texture.
- Cool the Pie: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature, which helps the filling to stabilize before serving.
- Add Dulce de Leche Topping: Just before serving, drizzle the top of the cooled pie with the warmed dulce de leche for a sweet, caramel finish.
- Serve: Slice the pie and serve at room temperature or slightly chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For an extra indulgent flavor, spread a thin layer of dulce de leche on the bottom of the unbaked pie crust before adding the coconut filling to add richness.
- This pie is best enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled to allow the flavors to fully develop.
- Pairs wonderfully with freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added decadence.
