Mini Coconut Pies (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed vanilla wafers).
02 - ¼ cup granulated sugar.
03 - ½ cup unsalted butter, melted.
04 - 1 ½ cups whole milk.
05 - 1 cup coconut milk (from a can, not coconut water).
06 - ⅔ cup granulated sugar.
07 - ¼ cup cornstarch.
08 - 4 large egg yolks.
09 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
10 - 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut.
11 - 1 cup heavy whipping cream.
12 - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar.
13 - ½ teaspoon vanilla extract.
14 - ¼ cup toasted coconut flakes (optional).

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
02 - In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
03 - Press about 2 tablespoons of the mixture into the bottoms of each cup in a standard muffin pan (or mini tart pans) to form crusts.
04 - Bake for 8-10 minutes, until golden and set. Let cool completely.
05 - In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, coconut milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat until it just begins to steam, but do not let it boil.
06 - In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and egg yolks until smooth.
07 - Slowly pour about ½ cup of the warm milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the yolks.
08 - Pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
09 - Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and shredded coconut.
10 - Allow the filling to cool slightly, then spoon it into the cooled crusts. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
11 - In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
12 - Spoon or pipe the whipped cream on top of each mini coconut pie.
13 - Sprinkle the tops with toasted coconut flakes for added flavor and texture, if desired.
14 - Serve chilled and enjoy.

# Notes:

01 - Mini Coconut Cream Pies are perfect for individual servings, making them ideal for parties or gatherings.
02 - Toast the coconut flakes for garnish for added flavor and a crunchy texture.