A slice of No Bake Coconut Cream Pie on a pie lifter.

This no-bake coconut cream pie is cool, creamy, and packed with sweet coconut flavor. Make it fast with simple, easy ingredients.

Jump to Recipe

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Coconut Cream Pie
Substitutions and Additions
How to Make No Bake Coconut Cream Pie
How To Serve No Bake Coconut Cream Pie
Why You'll Love This Easy Coconut Cream Pie Recipe
Recipe FAQ
Serving FAQ
Storage FAQ
JUMP TO RECIPE

Table of Contents

This no-bake coconut cream pie is the perfect creamy dessert for coconut lovers! With a graham cracker crust, fluffy coconut filling, and whipped topping, every bite is a tropical dream. This easy pie comes together in minutes and is great for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight treats. The irresistible combination of textures and flavors will have everyone asking for seconds!

Follow the easy guide below to make this delightful recipe at home. Step-by-step photos and directions ensure perfect results every time. We’ve also included pro tips, tricks, and answers to the most frequently asked questions to help you along the way!

Vertical image of a creamy slice of coconut cream pie with Cool Whip and golden coconut flakes, captioned “Easiest Dessert Ever!”

More Recipes ⭐ Pistachio Pie | No Bake Monster Cookies | Coconut Cheesecake Bites

You can whip up this easy recipe for coconut cream pie in just ten minutes, then chill it for at least six hours and it's ready to serve. The fluffy whipped topping and creamy coconut filling make every slice sweet, cool, and perfect for summer.

Bring this easy coconut dessert to potlucks, family dinners, or holiday parties—it disappears fast every time. The rich flavor, smooth layers, and graham cracker crust make this pie a crowd favorite with zero baking stress.

Ingredients for Coconut Cream Pie

Flat lay of labeled ingredients including pie crust, pudding mix, Cool Whip, coconut, coconut extract, and milk.

What you'll need to make this coconut cream pie recipe:

1 (6-ounce/9-inch) pre-made graham cracker crust
⅓ cup of sweetened shredded coconut
2 (3.4-ounce) coconut cream instant pudding packets
2 cups of whole milk, very cold
1½ teaspoons of coconut extract
8 ounces of extra creamy Cool Whip whipped topping, thawed, divided in half

Pro Tip

Make sure that you are using sweetened shredded coconut. You can find this in the baking aisle, where you find chocolate chips and baking nuts.

You can find unsweetened, freeze-dried, or even a larger shredded dried coconut in the produce or snack sections of your grocery store. These are not the same thing as baking sweetened shredded coconut.

Substitutions and Additions

Milk: Stick with dairy-based milk for this pie. Whole milk or 2% works best. I tested non-dairy coconut milk, and the pudding didn’t set.

Cool Whip: I use extra creamy Cool Whip because it makes the pie thick and rich. Regular Cool Whip works fine too, but skip low-fat.

Pudding: Coconut cream instant pudding has shredded coconut in the mix. It adds a light texture and hint of coconut. Don’t want that? Use vanilla pudding instead and add 2 teaspoons of coconut extract—add more to taste.

Crust: You can use a homemade crust if you’d rather skip store-bought. Just crush graham crackers in a food processor and follow our graham cracker crust recipe for the steps.

How to Make No Bake Coconut Cream Pie

Follow along with our step-by-step photos to make this no bake coconut pie from start to finish. Check out the tips and tricks below before you begin, so everything turns out just right. Let’s get started!

Pro Tip

Toasted coconut will keep in the fridge for 3-4 weeks, so you can make it ahead of time and have it ready for your pie whenever you are ready.

FIRST STEP: Remove the plastic lid to the pre-made graham cracker crust and place the crust (still inside the metal tray) onto a large plate. Once assembled, this will support the pie for transport to and from the refrigerator. Set aside.

Pro Tip

Keep the plastic lid from the graham cracker crust to cover your pie when you want to store it in the fridge.

SECOND STEP: In a small clean skillet, on medium-high heat, add the sweetened shredded coconut. Toast for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, so the coconut does not burn.

Shredded coconut being toasted in a nonstick skillet with a wooden spoon, showing golden brown flakes and a white background.

THIRD STEP: Remove the toasted, sweetened, shredded coconut to a plate to cool while assembling the rest of the pie.

FOURTH STEP: In a large mixing bowl, add the contents of both the packets of coconut cream instant pudding, whole milk, and coconut extract. Whisk for 2 minutes or until the pudding is soft set.

A large mixing bowl filled with yellow pudding mixture and a whisk, surrounded by a graham cracker crust and Cool Whip container.

FIFTH STEP: To the coconut cream pudding, add 4 ounces (half of an 8-ounce tub) of extra creamy Cool Whip whipped topping that has been thawed.

Cool Whip being folded into the yellow pudding mixture using a spatula, with the graham crust and Cool Whip container in view

SIXTH STEP: Fold together the pudding and thawed whipped topping until completely incorporated with each other.

SEVENTH STEP: Transfer the coconut cream pie mixture to the pre-made graham cracker crust and smooth out the top.

The creamy pie filling being spread into a graham cracker crust using a white spatula, ready for the next step

EIGHTH STEP: With the remaining 4 ounces of the extra creamy whipped topping, spread it over the entire top of the coconut cream pie filling in a smooth layer.

A black spatula smoothing a thick layer of Cool Whip over the top of the pudding layer in the pie crust.

NINTH STEP: Garnish the top of the pie with the cooled toasted coconut.

A hand garnishing the finished pie with toasted shredded coconut over a white creamy topping.

TENTH STEP: Refrigerate your pie for a minimum of 6 hours, or up to overnight, before slicing and serving.

Pro Tip

Make sure you give this pie plenty of time to chill before serving to allow the pudding to set.

How To Serve No Bake Coconut Cream Pie

This easy recipe for homemade coconut cream pie is versatile and perfect for so many occasions! Whether it’s a party, family gathering, or a seasonal treat, this dessert is a hit with everyone.

Perfect for Parties and Potlucks - This pie makes a delightful addition to any party or potluck. Its creamy filling and tropical flavor please both kids and adults. Pair it with recipes like fruit salad or pineapple cake for a crowd-pleasing spread.
Ideal for Warm Weather Gatherings - Serve this cool, refreshing pie at summer picnics or BBQs. It complements grilled dishes and chilled drinks like iced tea or lemonade. Guests will love the tropical twist!
A Sweet Treat for Family Nights - Enjoy this pie as an easy, no-fuss dessert for family dinners or game nights. Kids especially love its creamy sweetness! Serve it with family recipes like buffalo chicken pasta or Tater Tot casserole for a cozy meal everyone will love.

Zoomed-in shot of a cut-open coconut cream pie, showing fluffy filling and graham cracker crust with toasted coconut flakes.

Why You'll Love This Easy Coconut Cream Pie Recipe

This no-bake vanilla pudding coconut cream pie is easy to make, super creamy, and packed with sweet coconut flavor everyone loves.

A tropical escape in every bite: It’s full of creamy coconut pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and a buttery graham cracker crust that makes every bite taste like sunshine.
Quick and easy to make: You can make this pie in minutes, so it’s great for busy days, last-minute desserts, or just because you want something sweet.
Loved by everyone: Serve it at holidays, parties, or family dinners—it always disappears fast. Try it today and see why everyone keeps coming back for more!

No-bake coconut cream pie is the ultimate dessert for anyone who craves a sweet, tropical indulgence. Make it today and fall in love with every bite!

Pie server lifting a slice from a full coconut cream pie, showing thick filling and plenty of golden toasted coconut.

Recipe FAQ

Can I make this no-bake coconut cream pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this no-bake coconut cream pie a day ahead. Just chill it overnight so it sets perfectly.

Do I need to bake the graham cracker crust for this pie?
No, you don’t need to bake the crust. This recipe uses a ready-made or homemade graham cracker crust that stays firm once chilled.

Why didn’t my coconut cream pudding set right?
If your pudding didn’t set, double-check that you used dairy milk. Non-dairy milk often prevents instant pudding from setting properly.

Can I use regular Cool Whip instead of extra creamy?
Yes, regular Cool Whip works just fine. However, extra creamy makes your no-bake pie thicker and a little richer.

Does the pudding mix have coconut in it?
Yes, coconut cream pudding mix includes a little shredded coconut. It adds a soft texture without being too strong.

Can I use a hand whisk instead of a mixer?
Yes, you can use a hand whisk for this pie. It takes a bit longer, but it still mixes everything together well.

How long should I chill the pie before serving?
You should chill your coconut cream pie for at least six hours. Overnight works even better for clean, firm slices.

What’s the best way to spread Cool Whip on top?
To spread Cool Whip easily, scoop it on with a spoon, then gently smooth it out using a rubber spatula.

How thick should I make the graham cracker crust?
Make your crust about ¼ inch thick. Press it down firmly so it stays together and supports the filling.

Can I use sweetened shredded coconut as a topping?
Yes, sprinkle sweetened shredded coconut on top for extra flavor and texture. Toasted coconut adds a nice crunch too.

Two large pie slices on a white surface with fluffy coconut topping and a graham crust, one on a server, one on a plate.

Serving FAQ

What’s the best way to serve no-bake coconut cream pie at a gathering?
Slice the pie into even portions and place them on a dessert platter. Garnish each slice with toasted coconut for extra appeal.

Should no-bake coconut cream pie be served chilled or at room temperature?
Serve this pie chilled for the best flavor and texture. The creamy filling and crust taste amazing when cold and firm.

How can I make the slices look neat and presentable?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. This prevents smudging and keeps the slices looking picture-perfect.

Can I serve this pie as individual portions?
Yes, make mini pies in small ramekins or tart tins for single servings. They’re perfect for parties or special occasions!

What’s the best way to serve no-bake coconut cream pie at a party?
Cut the pie into small slices and use a pie server. Add a sprinkle of coconut on top for a pretty finish.

How can I garnish my pie before serving?
Add whipped topping, toasted coconut, or a cherry right before serving to keep everything fresh and light.

What’s the cleanest way to slice this no-bake pie?
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water. Wipe the blade between slices to keep each one smooth and clean.

How many servings will one pie give me?
This no-bake coconut cream pie usually serves nine people. Cut smaller slices if you’re serving it with other desserts.

Can I serve this pie for holidays or special occasions?
Yes, this pie works great for Easter, summer parties, or family dinners. Its tropical flavor always makes guests smile.

Side-by-side of a whole pie with one slice removed and a standalone slice showing creamy filling and coconut flakes.

Storage FAQ

Follow the steps below for tips and tricks to store, make ahead, and serve your no-bake coconut cream pie. From keeping it fresh to helping it turn out just right, we’ve included everything you need to know!

Can I prepare no-bake coconut cream pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the full pie one day ahead. Keep it chilled in the fridge until it’s time to serve. Just before serving, add the whipped cream and toasted coconut for that fresh-from-the-kitchen appearance.

What’s the best way to store leftover no-bake coconut cream pie?
Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or use an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to four days.

Is it possible to freeze no-bake coconut cream pie?
No, freezing isn’t a good option. The creamy filling may separate and lose its texture after it thaws.

How should I keep the pie fresh for a party?
Keep the pie covered and chilled until dessert time. Bring it out right before serving so it stays firm and creamy.