Skip to main content

Virginia’s Almost Impossible Coconut Pie

“Impossible” pies, which were popular in the 1960s, are made with Bisquick instead of pie crust. This recipe, from Mildred’s sister Virginia, isn’t authentically “impossible” because it doesn’t use Bisquick. Instead, the filling makes its own firmer layer of custard next to the pie plate as it bakes, forming a sort of crust. It’s simply perfect for the crust-shy baker. The coconut on top of this pie is nice and crunchy, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy custard.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    makes one 9-inch pie

Ingredients

2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup milk
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup self-rising flour
1 1/3 cups sweetened flaked coconut
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a pie plate with butter or cooking spray.

    Step 2

    Stir the eggs and milk together in a bowl, then stir in the sugar, flour, and coconut. Add the butter and vanilla and mix well.

    Step 3

    Pour into a 9-inch pie plate and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes, until set and golden brown. The filling should wobble very slightly in the center when the pan is jiggled. Custards continue to cook when taken out of the oven, so don’t overdo it. Cool on a wire rack for 1 hour before slicing. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Mrs. Rowe's Little Book of Southern Pies
Read More
Khao niaow ma muang, or steamed coconut sticky rice with ripe mango, is a classic in Thai cuisine—and you can make it at home.
With just a handful of ingredients, this old-fashioned egg custard is the little black dress of dinner party desserts—simple and effortlessly chic.
With rich chocolate flavor and easy customization, this hot cocoa recipe is just the one you want to get you through winter.
Upgrade any cookout—or keep the cooking on the stovetop—with these smashed cast-iron bison burgers, then stack with lemon mayo and a crisp cucumber-onion slaw.
This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.
Hawai‘i's beloved fried chicken is crispy, sweet, and savory.
Make this versatile caramel at home with our slow-simmered method using milk and sugar—or take one of two sweetened condensed milk shortcuts.
Summer’s best produce cooked into one vibrant, silky, flavor-packed dish.