Coconut Cream Pie

My opinion--this one sets the standard. From Southern Living. Allow time to chill.

• Ready In: 1 hr 1 min
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 1⁄2 cup sugar
• 1⁄4 cup cornstarch
• 2  cups half-and-half
• 4  egg yolks
• 3  tablespoons butter
• 1  cup flaked coconut
• 2  teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
• 1  baked  9-inch pie shell
• 1  cup  whipping cream
• 1⁄4 cup sugar

Directions

1. In a saucepan, combine 1/2 cup sugar and cornstarch.
2. Gradually whisk in the half and half and egg yolks.
3. Bring mixture to a boil over medium heat, whisking continually; boil for 1 minute.
4. Remove mixture from stove burner.
5. Stir in butter, flaked coconut and 1 teaspoon vanilla.
6. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and let cool to room temperature.
7. Spoon the custard mixture into the baked pie shell; chill for 30 minutes to 1 hour or until set.
8. Add whipping cream to a mixing bowl; using an electric mixer, beat at high speed until mixture is foamy; gradually add 1/4 cup sugar and remaining vanilla, beating until soft peaks form.
9. Spread or pipe whipped cream over pie.