At the table with
John Tyler.

THE HISTORICAL TABLE

The pudding that is really a pie

The Tyler family tradition preserves a dessert called Tyler pudding. Its name promises a bowl and spoon; the recipe tradition delivers a coconut-and-cream pie. Sherwood Forest family retellings and later published recipes keep the association alive.

That unexpected name is part of the charm. Our version bakes a coconut custard in a pastry shell, then lets it cool before slicing. The family connection supplies the history; the toasted coconut and soft centre supply a good reason to make it.