This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
These easy Coconut Cream Pie Parfaits start with coconut pudding mix and finish with layers of whipped cream, graham cracker, and toasted shredded coconut. They’re a delight!
Pin this recipe now to save it for later
Pin RecipeA Creamy Dreamy No-Bake Treat
Some of my favorite coconut dessert recipes start with a simple box of pudding! Coconut Cream Pie gets its creamy filling thanks to pudding mix, and these coconut cream pie parfaits are made with layers of coconut pudding.
You’ll see that coconut extract is an optional addition; the coconut pudding already has coconut flavor, of course, but adding the coconut extract makes it extra tropical. It’s not a must, but it’s an easy way to doctor up the pudding mix and make it taste homemade! (Here are some ideas for making cake mix taste homemade too!)
My Best Tips for Perfect Coconut Cream Pie Parfaits
This recipe is incredibly easy—so easy it’s practically effortless! But here are a few additional pointers to help you make sure it turns out perfect.
- Use whole milk for the richest results. You can make pudding with any type of milk, but if you want a pudding that’s rich, thick, and creamy, reach for whole milk. It will give the coconut pudding layer the texture of homemade.
- Get a head start. You can make the pudding and whipped cream and store them separately in the refrigerator for a day or two, then assemble when you’re ready to serve.
- Make it last longer. If you want to assemble these coconut cream parfaits in advance and have them last in the fridge for a few days, swap the homemade whipped cream for Cool Whip. Regular whipped cream will start to deflate in the fridge during storage, but Cool Whip is stabilized.
- Change the vibe by changing the container. These coconut cream parfaits can look elegant if you serve them in a fancy parfait cup, or you can make a cozy, rustic dessert by layering them in mason jars and screwing on the lid. Tie spoons around the neck of the jars with twine for the perfect picnic dessert!
Variations
Put a different spin on this coconut cream pie parfait recipe with these simple swaps.
- Use crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread instead of graham cracker crumbs.
- Make parfaits with any pudding flavor you like; for a party, it’s fun to do a few different flavors and add different fruit between the layers.
- Instead of graham cracker crumbs, spoon crushed pineapple into the bottom of the parfait glasses for a piña colada parfait.
How to Store Coconut Cream Pie Parfaits
Refrigerate leftovers covered in the parfait glasses or in sealed mason jars for up to 2 days. You can also freeze your parfaits for up to 2 months and thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Coconut Cream Pie Parfaits
Ingredients
For the Coconut Pudding:
- 1 (3.4-ounce) box instant coconut cream pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- ½ teaspoon coconut extract optional, for extra flavor
For the Layers:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup toasted shredded coconut optional for garnish
Instructions
Make the Coconut Pudding:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the pudding mix, milk, and coconut extract (if using) until smooth and thickened—about 2 minutes.
- Refrigerate while you prepare the other layers.
Make the Whipped Cream:
- In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue beating until stiff peaks form.
Assemble the Parfaits:
- In 6 small jars or parfait glasses, add a layer of graham cracker crumbs to the bottom.
- Spoon a layer of coconut pudding on top, followed by a layer of whipped cream.
- Repeat layers if space allows.
- Top each parfait with a sprinkle of toasted coconut for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to let the layers set.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- You can prep the components ahead of time and assemble just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.
- Swap graham crackers with crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread for a different twist.
- Not a coconut fan? Use vanilla or banana pudding instead and add fruit like strawberries or pineapple between the layers.
Nutrition
More Recipes for Coconut Lovers
- This light, fluffy Coconut Cake is perfect for special occasions!
- Old-Fashioned Coconut Pie has a rich, gooey filling that’s totally out of this world.
- For more of an everyday kind of treat, make a batch of these Coconut Cookies.
