Looking for a dessert that’s creamy, tangy, and unbelievably simple to make? Meet the Easy Impossible Pie — a magical lemon treat that forms its own crust as it bakes! Combining the smooth texture of custard with the lightness of cake, this pie is the perfect balance of richness and freshness.
With just a few pantry staples, this old-fashioned recipe delivers a show-stopping dessert that’s ideal for family gatherings, weekend baking, or when you simply crave something special. So, if you’re a lemon lover who enjoys desserts that are as easy as they are impressive — this one’s for you.
✨ What Is the Easy Impossible Pie?
The “Impossible Pie” got its whimsical name from what seems like a baking miracle — as it cooks, a soft, cake-like crust forms beneath a creamy custard layer, giving you a complete dessert without any extra work!
This recipe gained popularity decades ago among home bakers who loved its simplicity and “set-it-and-forget-it” magic. And yes, it still lives up to its reputation today. One bite of this bright, lemony creation, and you’ll understand why it’s been a staple in kitchens for generations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why this Easy Impossible Pie deserves a spot in your recipe box:
✅ It’s unbelievably easy: Just mix, pour, and bake—no crust-making or complicated steps.
✅ It’s bright and refreshing: Lemon juice and zest give every bite that sunny, tangy flavor.
✅ Budget-friendly and foolproof: You only need a handful of simple ingredients.
✅ Perfect for any occasion: Great for spring picnics, summer brunches, or cozy family dinners.
Add your favorite toppings — a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even fresh berries — for that perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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1 cup sugar
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½ cup all-purpose flour
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½ cup melted butter
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4 eggs
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1 cup milk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup lemon juice
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Zest of 1 lemon
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½ cup shredded coconut (optional for extra texture and flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or baking dish.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and flour until combined.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients
Add melted butter, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until smooth and well blended.
4. Incorporate Lemon Zest and Coconut
Fold in the lemon zest and shredded coconut (if using). These add brightness and texture.
5. Bake the Pie
Pour the batter into your prepared pie dish and bake for 30–40 minutes, or until golden brown and set in the center. The middle may puff up slightly — that’s perfectly normal!
6. Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm for a custardy texture or chilled for a firmer finish.
Serving Suggestions
This pie shines all on its own but pairs wonderfully with:
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A scoop of vanilla ice cream for creamy contrast.
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A sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
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Fresh berries for color and brightness.
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A glass of iced tea or sparkling lemonade for a refreshing combo.
Tips for Perfect Results
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Customize your flavor: Substitute lime or orange juice for a citrusy twist.
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Don’t overmix: Mix just until smooth—overmixing can affect the texture.
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Check doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
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Cool before serving: This helps the custard layer set beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
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Refrigerate: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
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Reheat: Warm slices gently in the oven for a few minutes to revive that fresh-baked flavor.
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