COCONUT CLUSTER PIE RECIPES

Steps:

• Place pecans in a 9-in. microwave-safe pie plate. Microwave, uncovered, on high for 2-3 minutes or until pecans are toasted, stirring every 45 seconds. In a bowl, combine the pecans, cereal and coconut. Add melted chips; mix well. Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls onto waxed paper-lined baking sheets. Let stand until set.

Steps:

• Roll pie dough to a 1/8-inch thick circle and place inside a greased 9-inch metal tart pan or pie pan. Cut excess dough, leaving a 1/2-inch overhang. Fold overhang under itself, creating a thicker ring of crust around the pie's edge. Crimp edge. Take a sheet of aluminum foil and grease it liberally with butter. Place the buttered surface inside the pie shell, allowing the pie dough to come in direct contact with the aluminum foil. Freeze crust for 1 hour or overnight. Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake crust with aluminum foil for 30 minutes. Remove aluminum foil and use a spoon to press down any areas that have puffed up. Bake uncovered until the crust is completely cooked and lightly browned, 15 to 20 minutes. Remove and set aside to cool.
• In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, flour, and salt. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly, until dry ingredients are fully dissolved. Add egg yolks and coconut cream and whisk to combine. Place over medium-high heat and whisk constantly until mixture thickens and bubbles appear on the surface. Reduce heat to medium-low and continue whisking for an additional minute. Remove from heat and stir in coconut extract and sweetened shredded coconut. Use a fine wire-mesh strainer to strain the mixture into the prepared pie shell, spreading the mixture evenly. Chill at least 2 hours or overnight.
• Garnish pie with freshly whipped cream and toasted unsweetened coconut chips if desired.