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.
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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
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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.
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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.
