This French Coconut Pie is a rich, old-fashioned Southern dessert featuring a sweet coconut custard filling baked into a flaky pie crust. With its buttery texture, golden top, and irresistible coconut flavor, it’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, and family gatherings.

French Coconut Pie

French Coconut Pie is a beloved vintage dessert that has been passed down through generations in many Southern kitchens. Despite its name, this pie is more Southern-American than French, featuring a simple mixture of eggs, sugar, butter, and coconut that magically forms a custard-like filling as it bakes.

The result is a pie with a lightly crisp golden top, a rich buttery center, and plenty of sweet coconut flavor in every bite. Best of all, it comes together with just a handful of pantry ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy one-bowl filling
Rich coconut flavor
Buttery custard texture
Perfect holiday dessert
Simple ingredients
No complicated techniques required

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 45–50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 slices

Ingredients

For the Pie

1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup whole milk

Optional Toppings

Whipped cream
Toasted coconut flakes
Powdered sugar
Fresh berries

Equipment Needed

9-inch pie plate
Large mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate and crimp the edges as desired.

Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

Sugar
Melted butter
Eggs

Whisk until smooth and fully combined.

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in:

Flour
Vanilla extract
Salt
Milk

Mix until smooth.

Fold in the shredded coconut.

Step 4: Fill the Pie Crust

Pour the coconut mixture into the prepared pie crust.

Spread evenly with a spatula.

Step 5: Bake

Place the pie on the center rack of the oven.

Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until:

The top is golden brown
The center is set
A knife inserted near the center comes out mostly clean

If the crust edges brown too quickly, cover them loosely with foil.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Remove the pie from the oven.

Place on a wire rack and allow it to cool completely.

The filling will continue to set as it cools.

Step 7: Serve

Slice and serve at room temperature or chilled.

Top with whipped cream or toasted coconut if desired.

Tips for Success

Use Quality Coconut

Sweetened shredded coconut provides the best texture and flavor for this traditional pie.

Don’t Overbake

The center should be set but not dry. Overbaking can make the filling less creamy.

Cool Before Slicing

Allowing the pie to cool completely helps the custard firm up properly.

Shield the Crust

Use a pie shield or foil if the crust edges begin browning too early.

Variations

Coconut Pecan Pie

Add ½ cup chopped pecans to the filling.

Coconut Cream Cheese Pie

Blend 4 ounces softened cream cheese into the filling mixture.

Tropical Coconut Pie

Add ½ cup well-drained crushed pineapple.

Toasted Coconut Pie

Toast half of the coconut before adding it to the filling for a deeper flavor.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezer

Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called French Coconut Pie?

Despite the name, it’s generally considered a Southern American dessert. The exact origin of the name is unclear, but the recipe has long been popular in Southern baking traditions.

Can I use unsweetened coconut?

Yes, but the pie will be less sweet and slightly less moist.

Does the pie need refrigeration?

Yes. Because it contains eggs and milk, refrigerate leftovers after cooling.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. This pie is excellent when made a day in advance and chilled overnight.

Final Thoughts

French Coconut Pie is a timeless dessert that proves simple ingredients can create something truly special. With its buttery custard filling, sweet coconut flavor, and flaky crust, it’s a comforting classic that’s perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, and any occasion that calls for a homemade dessert. One slice of this old-fashioned favorite is enough to understand why it has remained popular for generations.