Ever wondered about a pie that creates its own layers as it bakes? The beloved impossible pie recipe is truly magical - it separates into distinct layers of crust, custard, and coconut topping all on its own. This vintage favorite from the 1970s gets its name because it seems impossible that such a simple mixture could transform into a perfectly layered dessert.
What Makes This Impossible Pie Recipe So Special
This nostalgic dessert became popular when it was first printed on Borden milk labels and in magazines. The beauty lies in its simplicity - you simply blend all ingredients together, pour into a pie dish, and let the oven work its magic. As it bakes, the ingredients naturally separate into distinct layers: a tender crust on the bottom, creamy custard in the middle, and a golden coconut topping.
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Ingredients
For this impossible pie recipe, you'll need:
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1¾ cups whole milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results
Making the Batter
- In a blender, combine eggs, milk, and vanilla extract
- Add melted butter and blend until combined
- Add sugar, flour, and salt
- Blend until completely smooth, about 30 seconds
- Stir in the shredded coconut by hand
Baking
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pie dish
- Sprinkle with nutmeg if using
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until golden brown on top
- The center should be set but might still have a slight wobble
- Allow to cool completely before serving
Hints and Tips
The secret to a perfect impossible pie lies in the temperature of your ingredients. Room temperature eggs and milk create a smoother batter that separates more effectively during baking. For the best results, take these ingredients out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before starting.
Dietary Benefits & Serving Suggestions
While this is definitely a treat, impossible pie is lighter than many traditional desserts since it doesn't have a heavy pastry crust. Serve it slightly warm or chilled, perhaps with:
- Fresh berries
- A dollop of whipped cream
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- A light dusting of powdered sugar
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
Make this impossible pie recipe your own with these variations:
- Dairy-free: Use coconut milk and dairy-free butter
- Lower sugar: Reduce sugar to ¾ cup and use unsweetened coconut
- Flavor twist: Add ½ teaspoon almond extract or lemon zest
- Chocolate version: Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the batter
Equipment For Impossible Pie Recipe
You'll need:
- 9-inch pie dish
- Blender or food processor
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Rubber spatula
Storage
Store your impossible pie in an airtight container:
- Room temperature: Up to 24 hours
- Refrigerated: 3-4 days
- Freezer: Up to 2 months (though texture may change slightly)
Top Tip
The key to achieving distinct layers is to avoid overmixing after adding the coconut. Gentle stirring allows the ingredients to separate properly during baking.
FAQ
The most common reasons are overmixing the batter, using cold ingredients, or incorrect oven temperature. Ensure ingredients are at room temperature and mix just until combined.
Yes! It actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. Make it up to 24 hours in advance and store in the refrigerator.
If your pie seems runny, it likely needs additional baking time. The center should be set but might still have a slight wobble when done.
This impossible pie recipe proves that sometimes the simplest desserts are the most impressive. With just one bowl, basic pantry ingredients, and minimal effort, you'll create a dessert that's sure to become a family favorite. The hardest part is waiting for it to cool before diving in!
Give it a try and don't forget to let us know how it turned out in the comments below.
If you loved the Magic Impossible Pie Recipe, you'll want to try the Easy Gipfeli Recipe for another delightful and simple treat.
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Impossible Pie Recipe
Magic Impossible Pie Recipe
Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish
- Blender or food processor
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Rubber spatula
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 1¾ cups whole milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted and cooled
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Pinch of ground nutmeg optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish.
- In a blender, combine eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Add melted butter and blend until combined.
- Add sugar, flour, and salt. Blend until smooth, about 30 seconds.
- Stir in shredded coconut by hand.
- Pour mixture into prepared pie dish.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until golden brown and set.
- Cool completely before serving.
Notes
- All ingredients should be at room temperature
- Center may still have slight wobble when done
- Serve with whipped cream and fresh berries
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