Imagine a warm, inviting slice of pie that combines the nutty crunch of pecans, the sweet richness of caramel, and the toasty flavor of coconut – that’s exactly what you’ll get with this delightful recipe for Toasted Coconut, Pecan and Caramel Pie. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, this pie is sure to be a hit with its irresistible blend of flavors and textures. Let’s dive into how to create this mouthwatering dessert that will become a new favorite in your repertoire.
**Toasted Coconut, Pecan and Caramel Pie**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 9-inch pre-baked pie crust
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and toasty for the coconut and pecans.
2. **Toast the Coconut and Pecans**: Spread the shredded coconut and pecan halves on a baking sheet in an even layer. Place in the preheated oven and toast for about 8-10 minutes, or until the coconut is golden brown and fragrant, and the pecans are lightly toasted. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Once done, remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
3. **Prepare the Caramel**: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then increase the heat to medium-high and let the mixture come to a boil without stirring. Cook, swirling the pan occasionally, until the mixture turns a deep amber color, about 8-10 minutes.
4. **Add the Cream and Butter**: Carefully pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Be cautious, as the mixture may bubble up. Stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and salt until everything is well combined and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
5. **Assemble the Pie**: Sprinkle half of the toasted coconut and pecans over the bottom of the pre-baked pie crust. Pour about half of the warm caramel mixture over the coconut and pecans. Repeat with the remaining coconut, pecans, and caramel, creating layers of deliciousness.
6. **Chill and Serve**: Place the pie in the refrigerator to set, at least for a few hours or overnight. The caramel should firm up nicely. When ready to serve, slice the pie into wedges and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in every bite.
7. **Extra Tips**: Feel free to customize this pie by adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a salty-sweet twist, or drizzling with melted chocolate for a decadent touch. You can also top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
This Toasted Coconut, Pecan and Caramel Pie is the perfect dessert for any occasion, bringing a taste of indulgence to your table. Whip it up for gatherings, holidays, or simply as a treat for yourself. With its irresistible combination of flavors, this pie is sure to become a new go-to favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy every delicious bite!
