Name: Irresistible French Coconut Pie with Dulce de Leche Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 325 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Softened); ¾ cup Granulated Sugar (Can substitute with coconut sugar); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Pure vanilla preferred); 4 large Egg Yolks (Avoid using whole eggs); 2 cups All Purpose Flour (Gluten-free alternative possible); 1 cup Dulce de Leche (Store-bought or homemade); 2 cups Unsweetened Shredded Coconut (Sweetened coconut as alternative); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (For filling); 4 large Eggs (Adds moisture); ¼ cup Honey (Maple syrup can be used); 1 cup Whipping Cream (Coconut cream as non-dairy option); ½ cup Icing Sugar (Optional); ¼ cup White Coating Chocolate or Candy Melts (For decoration); as needed Golden or Yellow Pearls or Sprinkles (For garnish)

As my spoon glided through the creamy layer of dulce de leche, a sweet sensation filled the air, promising delightful indulgence. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that beautifully marries French and Argentine cuisine: the French Coconut Pie with Dulce de Leche. This decadent dessert features a buttery, crisp crust that contrasts perfectly with a moist, coconut-infused filling, making it a showstopper for any gathering. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious treat to serve at a tea party or a comforting finale to a family meal, this pie has you covered. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but its easy prep means you can whip it up without spending hours in the kitchen. So, are you ready to dive into a slice of tropical bliss?

Why You’ll Crave This Coconut Pie?

Irresistible flavors await! This French Coconut Pie with Dulce de Leche strikes the perfect balance between sweet and creamy.

Quick Prep: You won’t need hours of fuss—just mix and bake!
Versatile Dessert: Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or chilled with a dollop of whipped cream.
Cultural Fusion: Experience a delightful combination of Argentine dulce de leche and classic French baking.
Crowd Favorite: Everyone will be begging for seconds at your next gathering!
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance to let the flavors meld beautifully—ideal for busy hosts!

Craving more sweet treats? Check out our delightful Coconut Cream Pie or explore the warming spices in Apple Butter Pie.

French Coconut Pie Ingredients

• Ready to create this delightful dessert? Here’s what you need for your French Coconut Pie with Dulce de Leche.

For the Crust

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and structure; margarine can be substituted for a dairy-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough; coconut sugar adds a unique caramel flavor if desired.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; opting for pure vanilla yields the best results.
Egg Yolks – Contributes binding and richness; avoid using whole eggs to maintain dough texture.
All Purpose Flour – Forms the base of the pie crust; consider gluten-free flour blends for an alternative.

For the Filling

Dulce de Leche – Adds a rich, caramel-like flavor; can be made from scratch or store-bought for ease.
Unsweetened Shredded Coconut – Provides texture and flavor; sweetened coconut can be an alternative if reducing other sugars.
Granulated Sugar (for filling) – Sweetens the coconut mixture; a sugar substitute can help reduce calories.
Eggs – Binds the filling and adds essential moisture.
Honey – Acts as a natural sweetener to enhance moisture; maple syrup can be a tasty substitute.
Whipping Cream – Adds creaminess; coconut cream is an excellent non-dairy alternative.

For Decoration

Icing Sugar – Offers a sweet finishing touch; optional if you prefer less sweetness.
White Coating Chocolate or Candy Melts – Great for decorative elements; dark chocolate can be used for a richer finish.
Golden or Yellow Pearls or Sprinkles – Optional garnish; these add a lovely pop of color and visual appeal.

Get ready to indulge in a slice of sweet heaven with this French Coconut Pie!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for French Coconut Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes. Add 4 egg yolks, mixing thoroughly. Gradually incorporate 2 cups of all-purpose flour until a soft dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up, ensuring a sturdy crust for your French Coconut Pie.

Step 2: Pre-bake Crust
Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thick. Carefully transfer it into a 9-inch tart pan, pressing it into the sides and bottom. Freeze for 15 minutes to maintain shape during baking. Preheat your oven to 330°F (170°C). Use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust and pre-bake for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden—this step prevents a soggy crust beneath the luscious coconut filling.

Step 3: Make Filling
In a large bowl, beat together 4 eggs, 1 cup of granulated sugar, ¼ cup of honey, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is pale and frothy, around 3–5 minutes. Gently fold in 2 cups of unsweetened shredded coconut and 1 cup of whipping cream until evenly combined. This filling will add a delightful texture and sweetness to your French Coconut Pie.

Step 4: Assemble
Once the pre-baked crust has cooled slightly, spread a generous layer of dulce de leche (about 1 cup) evenly across the bottom. Carefully pour the coconut filling mixture over the dulce de leche, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Preheat the oven to 340°F (170°C) and bake the pie for about 40 minutes or until the top is golden and the filling is set, delightful aromas filling your kitchen.

Step 5: Cool
After baking, remove the French Coconut Pie from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 4 hours at room temperature. This cooling period is essential for the filling to firm up properly. Once cool, carefully unmold the pie from the tart pan and transfer it to a serving plate.

Step 6: Decorate
Dust the top of the cooled pie with icing sugar for a lovely finish. If desired, add decorative elements such as melted white chocolate or candy melts, and sprinkle with golden pearls for visual appeal. This final touch makes your French Coconut Pie not just delicious, but also beautiful for any gathering.

How to Store and Freeze French Coconut Pie

Room Temperature: Keep the pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This preserves its delightful textures and flavors perfectly.
Fridge: If you prefer it chilled, you may store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring it’s tightly wrapped to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, tightly wrap slices of the French Coconut Pie in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months—it’s a perfect treat to save for later!
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and bring to room temperature before serving. For a warm slice, reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10–15 minutes.

French Coconut Pie Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to personalize your pie adventure! With a sprinkle of creativity, you can enhance flavors and textures that dance delightfully on your palate.

Desiccated Coconut: Swap shredded coconut for desiccated coconut for a finer texture and unique taste. This slight change can elevate each slice with a delicate mouthfeel.
Gluten-Free Flour: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for those with dietary restrictions. This makes your pie welcoming to everyone at the table!
Honey Alternatives: Maple syrup works wonderfully as a sugar substitute in the filling, adding a warm, earthy tone. The subtle flavor twist will mesmerize your guests.
Fresh Fruit Topping: Add a tropical touch by layering fresh mango or berries on top before serving. The colorful fruit brightens the pie visually while introducing refreshing bursts of flavor.
Flavored Extracts: Experiment with almond or coconut extract for a different flavor profile. Just a teaspoon can transform the essence of your pie into something utterly delightful.
Dairy-Free Cream: Substitute whipping cream with coconut cream for a plant-based option. This addition keeps the richness while creating a luscious treat without any dairy!
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle additional dulce de leche over the finished pie for extra indulgence. It adds that finishing touch that transforms good into great.
Chocolate Elements: Try dark chocolate in place of white coating chocolate for a sophisticated twist. The richer flavor pairs beautifully with the coconut and caramel notes.

For more dessert inspiration, don’t miss out on our One Pot Pie or explore the savory delights of German Onion Pie!

Expert Tips for Perfect French Coconut Pie

Chill the Dough: Ensure the dough is well-chilled before rolling it out. A firm crust prevents shrinking while baking, essential for your French Coconut Pie.
Fork Prick Technique: Don’t skip pricking the crust! This allows steam to escape during pre-baking, helping to avoid a soggy bottom that can compromise your pie’s texture.
Cooling Time Matters: Be patient and allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This will help the filling set properly, ensuring beautiful, clean cuts.
Oven Temperature Check: Always use an oven thermometer to confirm your baking temperature. Oven inaccuracies can lead to undercooked or overcooked pies.
Decorate Thoughtfully: Add icing sugar just before serving to keep the top from dissolving and losing its charm. It enhances your pie’s appearance and adds a sweet touch!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your French Coconut Pie with Dulce de Leche ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time and make your baking experience smoother! You can prep the pie crust up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow steps 1 and 2, then wrap the pre-baked crust tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. The filling can be made up to 3 days ahead—just mix up the coconut filling and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to assemble, spread the dulce de leche in the crust, pour the chilled filling over it, and bake as directed. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring your pie is just as delicious when ready to serve!

What to Serve with French Coconut Pie with Dulce de Leche?

Indulging in a slice of this creamy, tropical pie is just the beginning of a delightful dining experience.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and fluffy contrast, enhancing the pie’s richness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the pie’s coconut texture, making each bite irresistible. A scoop of ice cream is a classic choice!
Tropical Fruit Salad: Fresh mangoes, pineapples, and berries create a refreshing balance, cutting through the sweetness and adding a burst of color.
Mint Tea: A soothing cup of mint tea complements the pie’s flavors, providing a refreshing contrast that enhances the overall experience.
Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkling toasted coconut on top brings extra crunch and intensifies the coconut flavor, making it even more delightful.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These sweet treats offer a hint of luxury and rich flavor, their tartness balancing the sweetness of the pie beautifully.
Sparkling Water with Lime: For a simple yet elegant drink, serve sparkling water with a twist of lime, refreshing your palate between bites.
Pineapple Sorbet: Light and fruity, sorbet provides a cool finish that harmonizes perfectly with the richness of the coconut pie.

With these delightful pairings, your dessert experience will be elevated to a whole new level!

French Coconut Pie with Dulce de Leche Recipe FAQs

What type of coconut is best for this pie?
Using unsweetened shredded coconut is ideal because it maintains the authentic coconut flavor without added sugars. If you prefer a simpler taste, you can substitute with sweetened coconut, just remember to adjust the sugar in the filling accordingly.

How should I store my French Coconut Pie?
For maximum freshness, store your pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’re keeping it longer, wrapping it tightly and freezing is your best bet. It can stay good for up to 3 months in the freezer—perfect for unexpected guests!

Can I freeze the French Coconut Pie? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the pie to cool completely first. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready to enjoy, and it should taste just as delightful as the day you made it. For a quick warm-up, pop it into a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10–15 minutes.

What if I find my pie crust is soggy?
Oh no! A soggy crust can be disheartening, but it’s often fixable. If you notice a soggy bottom, ensure you pre-bake the crust fully and prick it with a fork to let steam escape. Consider baking it an extra minute for a crisper texture. Going forward, make sure the crust is chilled before adding the filling—this really helps!

Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making this pie a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall sweetness and texture. Just be sure to store it properly in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

Is this pie suitable for those with allergies?
The French Coconut Pie does contain common allergens like eggs and dairy. For a dairy-free version, consider substituting the butter with margarine and the whipping cream with coconut cream. If you’d like to eliminate eggs, you can try egg replacers like flaxseed meal mixed with water, but this may alter the texture slightly. Check ingredient labels when using store-bought dulce de leche to ensure it meets your dietary needs.