Save A nostalgic dessert from the Great Depression era, water pie transforms simple pantry staples into a surprisingly creamy, custard-like treat with a delicate vanilla flavor and crisp, sugary crust.
I discovered water pie when researching classic Depression-era recipes, and I was amazed at how such humble ingredients could create such a delicious dessert. Every slice feels like a bite of history that is both comforting and intriguing.
Ingredients
- Unbaked 9-inch pie crust: Store-bought or homemade
- Water: 1 1/2 cups
- Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons
- Granulated sugar: 3/4 cup
- All-purpose flour: 3 tablespoons
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: Pinch
Instructions
- Prepare Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange Crust:
- Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan, crimping the edges as desired.
- Add Water:
- Pour the water directly into the pie crust.
- Mix Sugar and Flour:
- In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and flour until thoroughly combined. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the water in the crust.
- Flavor:
- Drizzle the vanilla extract over the top and add a pinch of salt.
- Add Butter:
- Slice the butter into thin pats and distribute them evenly over the surface.
- Bake:
- Carefully transfer the pie to the lower rack of the oven. Bake for 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
- Lower Temperature:
- Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the crust is golden and the filling is set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Cool:
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing for best texture.
Save This recipe always brings back memories of my grandmother, who would make water pie to stretch ingredients on a tight budget but still have something sweet to share with the family.
Recipe Variations
Try adding ground cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and serve your water pie with fresh berries or whipped cream for a modern touch.
Required Tools
9-inch pie pan, mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, oven
Nutritional Information
Each slice contains approximately 210 calories, 8 g total fat, 33 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein.
Save Enjoy this simple pie as a reminder of culinary resourcefulness and sweetness on the toughest days. Water pie proves that comfort can come from the simplest ingredients.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → What filling texture can I expect?
The filling has a creamy, almost custard-like consistency with a slight jiggle that sets as it cools.
- → Can I make this vegan?
Yes, substitute plant-based butter and a vegan pie crust to suit a vegan diet while maintaining flavor.
- → Should the pie be served warm or cold?
Let it cool completely and refrigerate before slicing for best results; it’s ideal served chilled.
- → How do I add extra flavor?
For a comforting twist, sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg or top slices with whipped cream and fresh berries.
- → What type of crust works best?
Both store-bought and homemade crusts work well, just ensure it's unbaked before filling and baking.
- → Are there any allergen concerns?
This dessert contains wheat (gluten) and dairy; check labels if using store-bought crust for additional allergens.