Mexican Coconut Cream Tart: A Tropical Indulgence

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a food processor, combine 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut, 1/4 cup of flour, and cubed butter. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt to the mixture. Pulse again until the dough comes together.
4. Press the dough evenly into a tart pan, covering the bottom and sides. Use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust.
5. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until it is golden brown. Let it cool completely.
6. In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
7. Pour the coconut cream mixture into the cooled tart crust, spreading it evenly.
8. Place the tart in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2-3 hours, or until the filling is set.
9. Once the tart is chilled and set, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes and the remaining 1/2 cup of sweetened shredded coconut on top for garnish.
10. Slice the Mexican Coconut Cream Tart and serve it as a delightful dessert that captures the exotic flavors of the tropics.

Note:

• You can customize the level of sweetness by adjusting the amount of sweetened shredded coconut and sweetened condensed milk.
• Feel free to experiment with additional spices or extracts, such as cardamom or almond extract, to enhance the flavor profile of the tart.
• Serve the Mexican Coconut Cream Tart with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Savor the luscious allure of the Mexican Coconut Cream Tart, a tropical paradise encapsulated in a delectable dessert. With its velvety coconut cream filling, delicate hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, and a crisp coconut-infused crust, each mouthful offers a journey to sun-soaked beaches and azure waters. Indulge in this sumptuous creation, where culinary artistry and the essence of Mexico's coastal charm converge in a single, unforgettable bite. ¡Disfruta!