Coconut Cream Meringue Pie


CRUST:
20 squares graham crackers
1/4 cup sugar
1 stick butter

PIE FILLING:
2/3 cup sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1 cup coconut milk
3 egg yolks, lightly beaten
1 cup flaked coconut, finely chopped
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

MERINGUE:
3 egg whites
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
6 tablespoons sugar
1/2 cup flaked coconut


1. Crush graham crackers, stir in sugar and melted butter. Press into 9" pie pan and bake at 375°F for 8 minutes.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch and salt. Stir in milk and coconut milk until smooth. Cook and stir over medium-high heat until thickened and bubbly. Reduce heat; cook and stir 2 minutes longer. Remove from the heat. Stir a small amount of hot filling into egg yolks; return all to pan, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle boil; cook and stir 2 minutes longer. Remove from the heat. Gently stir in chopped coconut, butter and vanilla until butter is melted. Pour hot filling into crust.
3. For meringue, in a small mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually beat in sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, on high until stiff glossy peaks form and sugar is dissolved. Spread evenly over hot filling, sealing edges to crust. Sprinkle with flaked coconut.
4. Bake at 350 degrees F for 12-15 minutes or until the meringue is golden. Cool on a wire rack for 1 hour. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving. Refrigerate leftovers.