
Coconut Impossible Pie
The Magic of Impossible Pie
Impossible pie, also known as magic pie, is a vintage dessert celebrated for its simplicity and surprising results. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal mixing, this pie bakes into three distinct layers: a bottom crust, a creamy custard filling, and a coconut topping. The magic happens in the oven as the batter separates and transforms.
A Retro Classic
This recipe gained popularity in the mid-20th century as an easy-to-make dessert that required no pre-made crust. It became a staple in many households, offering a sweet treat with minimal fuss. The coconut version is a particularly beloved variation, adding a tropical twist to this classic dessert.
How It Works
The 'impossible' aspect comes from the self-layering effect. The flour settles to form the crust, the liquid ingredients create the custard, and the coconut floats to the top, creating a toasted coconut layer. This is achieved through the specific ratios of ingredients and the baking process.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/3 cups shredded sweetened coconut
Instructions
- 1.Preparation
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch pie plate.
- 2.Mixing the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add eggs, melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth.
- 3.Adding Coconut
Stir in the shredded coconut.
- 4.Baking
Pour the mixture into the prepared pie plate. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean.
- 5.Cooling
Let the pie cool completely before serving. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving for best results.
Nutritional Information
Equipment
- 9-inch pie plate
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Tips
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk instead of low-fat milk.
- If the top is browning too quickly, cover the pie with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Let the pie cool completely before cutting to allow the layers to set properly.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Try Our AI Features
Reverse Engineer Any Recipe
Just snap or upload a picture of a dish, and our AI will create the complete recipe for you.
Identify RecipeCreate Custom Recipes
Take a photo of your ingredients, and let AI create a personalized recipe just for you.
Create RecipeYou Might Also Like

Chocolate Flapjack Recipe
Indulge in these chewy and chocolatey flapjacks, perfect for a sweet treat or an energy boost. This recipe combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the rich flavor of chocolate.

Easy Lemon Dump Cake
This lemon dump cake is a simple and delicious dessert that requires minimal effort. With just a few ingredients, you can have a sweet and tangy treat ready in no time.

Matcha Caramel Cookies
These Matcha Caramel Cookies offer a delightful blend of earthy matcha and sweet, gooey caramel. The slightly bitter matcha balances the richness of the caramel, creating a unique and addictive treat.

Chai-Infused Cheesecake Bars
These Chai-Infused Cheesecake Bars are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the warm, aromatic spices of chai. Perfect for a cozy treat or elegant dessert.

Get Weekly Recipes
Join our community for exclusive recipes and cooking tips