Easy Coconut Cream Pie Recipe – Creamy Tropical Dessert

A slice of easy coconut cream pie with a golden crust, fluffy whipped topping, and toasted coconut flakes, served on a white dessert plate.
Creamy, coconutty, and totally irresistible—this pie is a slice of paradise. 🥥🥧

Why Easy Coconut Cream Pie Is a Dream Dessert

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s creamy, tropical, and blissfully simple, Easy Coconut Cream Pie is your answer. With its cool, silky filling and crunchy crust, it’s the kind of treat that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen.

This pie is a no-bake favorite, making it perfect for holidays, potlucks, or even a weeknight indulgence when you want something sweet and satisfying. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize and even easier to love.

Whether you’re a coconut fanatic or just craving something light and luscious, this pie delivers. The combination of pudding, whipped topping, and shredded coconut creates a dreamy texture, while the crust adds just the right amount of crunch. It’s comfort food with a tropical twist—and it might just become your new go-to dessert.

What Is Coconut Cream Pie?

Coconut Cream Pie is a classic dessert featuring a creamy coconut filling nestled in a flaky pastry crust or crumbly graham cracker base. It’s topped with a generous layer of whipped cream and toasted coconut for added texture and flavor.

Unlike coconut custard pie, which is baked and uses eggs to set the filling, coconut cream pie is typically no-bake and relies on pudding or cream mixtures for its smooth consistency. This makes it quicker to prepare and perfect for warm-weather occasions.

There are many variations:

  • Baked versions with homemade custard
  • No-bake shortcuts using instant pudding
  • Pudding-based pies with whipped topping
  • Cream cheese or coconut extract for added richness

No matter the version, the result is always a cool, creamy dessert with tropical flair and irresistible texture.

Ingredient Breakdown: What You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into an easy coconut cream pie:

Crust Options

  • 1 pre-made graham cracker crust
  • OR Golden Oreo crust (crushed cookies + melted butter)
  • OR traditional baked pie crust

Filling

  • 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla or coconut pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

Topping

  • 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream)
  • ½ cup toasted coconut flakes

Optional Add-ins

  • 2 tbsp cream cheese (for tangy richness)
  • 1 tsp coconut extract (for deeper flavor)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (if making homemade pudding)
  • 2 tbsp melted butter (for homemade crust)

Tip: Toasted coconut adds crunch and depth—just bake it at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until golden.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust Use a store-bought graham cracker crust or make your own by mixing crushed cookies with melted butter. Press into a pie dish and chill for 15–20 minutes.
  2. Mix the Filling In a large bowl, whisk pudding mix with cold milk for 2–3 minutes until thickened. Let sit for 5 minutes to fully set.
  3. Fold in Coconut & Whipped Topping Gently fold in shredded coconut and half of the whipped topping until smooth and creamy.
  4. Assemble the Pie Pour the filling into the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  5. Chill to Set Refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours, or overnight for best results.
  6. Add Final Toppings Spread remaining whipped topping over the pie. Sprinkle with toasted coconut and optional garnishes like lime zest or chocolate shavings.

Tip: Letting the pie chill overnight ensures a firm, sliceable texture and deeper flavor.

Taste & Texture Profile

Easy Coconut Cream Pie is a cool, creamy dessert with layers of flavor and texture:

  • The filling is silky and lightly sweet, with a tropical coconut flavor that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
  • Shredded coconut adds a gentle chew and depth, while the crust provides crunch and contrast.
  • The whipped topping makes it light and airy, balancing the richness of the pudding.
  • Toasted coconut on top adds a nutty, golden finish that elevates every bite.

It’s a dessert that feels comforting and festive, perfect for warm days, special occasions, or any time you want a slice of paradise.

A slice of easy coconut cream pie with a golden crust, fluffy whipped topping, and toasted coconut flakes, served on a white dessert plate.

Easy Coconut Cream Pie Recipe – Creamy Tropical Dessert

This Easy Coconut Cream Pie is a dreamy dessert that’s bursting with tropical flavor! Made with a buttery crust, rich coconut custard filling, and topped with whipped cream and toasted coconut, it’s a simple yet elegant treat perfect for holidays, potlucks, or summer gatherings. No fancy techniques required—just creamy, coconutty goodness in every bite. Make ahead and chill for effortless entertaining!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Course Dessert, Holiday Treat, No-Bake Pie, Potluck favorite
Cuisine American / Tropical-inspired
Servings 8 slices
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Pie dish
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Skillet or oven (for toasting coconut)

Ingredients
  

Crust Options

  • 1 pre-made graham cracker crust
  • OR 1½ cups crushed Golden Oreos + ¼ cup melted butter (pressed into pie dish and chilled)

Filling

  • 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla or coconut pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • ½ cup whipped topping (folded into filling)

Topping

  • 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade)
  • ½ cup toasted coconut flakes

Optional Add-ins

  • 2 tbsp cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 tsp coconut extract or dark rum
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (for homemade pudding)
  • Chocolate ganache layer (optional, under filling)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Crust

  • Use a store-bought crust or make your own by mixing crushed cookies with melted butter. Press into pie dish and chill for 15–20 minutes.

Mix the Filling

  • In a bowl, whisk pudding mix with cold milk for 2–3 minutes until thick. Let sit for 5 minutes to set.

Fold in Coconut & Whipped Topping

  • Stir in shredded coconut and ½ cup whipped topping until smooth. Add optional extract or cream cheese if using.

Assemble the Pie

  • Pour filling into chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Chill to Set

  • Refrigerate for 3–4 hours, or overnight for best texture.

Add Final Toppings

  • Spread remaining whipped topping over pie. Sprinkle with toasted coconut and optional garnishes like lime zest or mint.

Notes

  • Use toasted coconut for added flavor and crunch.
  • Chill crust before adding filling to prevent sogginess.
  • Whisk pudding thoroughly to avoid lumps.
  • Full-fat milk gives the best texture.
  • Glass pie dish helps monitor crust and filling set.
  • Best served chilled.
  • Store covered in fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing not recommended—texture may change.
 
Keyword Coconut cream pie, easy pie recipe, no-bake dessert, pudding pie, tropical pie