Delicious Coconut Cream Pie featuring a buttery, crisp crust filled with smooth coconut custard, topped with homemade whipped cream and toasted coconut.
Use sweetened shredded coconut for a sweeter pie, or unsweetened for less sweetness; ensure the coconut is fresh for the best flavor., Homemade pie crust is ideal for extra flakiness, but store-bought refrigerated crusts are a convenient alternative., Pie weights prevent puffing during blind baking and ensure an even crust., Maintain constant stirring during custard cooking to avoid lumps and ensure smooth, silky texture., Optional variations include adding a chocolate layer before the custard, mixing in fruit such as banana or pineapple, adding a splash of rum for a spirited twist, or swapping whipped cream for meringue or coconut cream for dairy-free options., Custard sets best after chilling at least one hour; overnight is even better., Egg whites can be saved to make meringues instead of using whipped cream., Pie can be stored covered in the refrigerator for 3-4 days; freezing is possible but may affect texture.