This creamy strawberry coconut pie is a luscious dessert that blends the richness of a graham cracker crust with a velvety filling studded with juicy fruit. Topped with whipped cream, toasted coconut flakes, and a bright cherry, it is both visually stunning and indulgent. The pie offers layers of texture: the crisp crust, the smooth filling, the tender fruit, and the airy topping. It’s the kind of dessert that feels celebratory, perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or simply as a treat to brighten an ordinary day.
The beauty of this pie lies in its balance. The graham cracker crust provides a sturdy, slightly sweet base. The filling, made creamy with condensed milk and whipped topping, is light yet decadent. Strawberries or cherries add bursts of freshness, cutting through the richness and adding vibrant color. Finally, the topping of whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes creates a delightful finish that elevates the pie into something truly memorable.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup melted butter
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces)
- 1 package cream cheese (8 ounces, softened)
- 1 cup whipped topping (plus extra for garnish)
- 1½ cups fresh strawberries or cherries, chopped
- ½ cup toasted coconut flakes
- Whole cherries for garnish (optional)
Instruction
- Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom and sides of a pie dish to form an even crust. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk and continue mixing until creamy and well combined. Fold in the whipped topping gently to maintain its light texture.
- Add the fruit: Stir in the chopped strawberries or cherries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the filling. This step adds both flavor and a beautiful speckled appearance to the pie.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the filling into the chilled crust, spreading it evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the pie to firm up.
- Finish with toppings: Before serving, spread a layer of whipped topping over the pie. Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes generously across the surface. Garnish with whole cherries for a final touch of color and elegance.
- Serve: Slice carefully with a sharp knife to preserve the layers. Each slice should reveal the creamy filling dotted with fruit, topped with coconut and whipped cream.
Servings
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings, making it ideal for sharing at family dinners or festive occasions.
Note
This pie is best served chilled, as the cool temperature enhances its creamy texture and keeps the fruit fresh. Toasting the coconut flakes beforehand adds a nutty depth that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the filling. If preparing ahead, keep the whipped topping and coconut separate until just before serving to maintain freshness and presentation.
The recipe is highly adaptable. You can substitute strawberries with cherries, raspberries, or even a mix of fruits depending on availability and preference. The graham cracker crust can also be replaced with a digestive biscuit base or even a chocolate cookie crust for a richer variation.
What makes this pie special is the harmony of flavors and textures. The crust anchors the dessert, the filling provides indulgence, the fruit adds brightness, and the topping delivers both beauty and crunch. It’s a dessert that appeals to the senses—sight, taste, and even smell, thanks to the toasted coconut.
Beyond its taste, the pie carries a sense of nostalgia. Creamy fruit pies often remind people of family gatherings, summer celebrations, or holiday tables. Preparing it can become a ritual, from pressing the crust to folding in the fruit, each step inviting care and anticipation. Serving it brings joy, as the colorful layers and garnishes make it a centerpiece worthy of admiration.
This creamy strawberry coconut pie is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of comfort and creativity. It demonstrates how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create something extraordinary. Whether enjoyed as a weekend treat or a festive finale, it leaves a lasting impression and invites everyone to savor the moment.