Save to Pinterest 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 first tasted water pie when I was searching for old-fashioned desserts to surprise my grandmother. She was amazed I made something so good with just a few simple items from the pantry. Now I make it whenever I need a comforting, nostalgic treat.
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
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Pie Dish:
- 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.
- Add Dry Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and flour until thoroughly combined. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the water in the crust.
- Add 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 and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing for best texture.
Save to Pinterest Whenever my family gathers for Sunday dinners, I love serving water pie after our meal. Everyone asks for seconds, and it always sparks conversation about recipes from years gone by.
Required Tools
9-inch pie pan, mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, oven
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) and dairy (butter). Confirm ingredients in store-bought crust before preparing for anyone with allergies.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 210 calories, 8 g total fat, 33 g carbohydrates, 2 g protein
Save to Pinterest This pie is sure to delight anyone who tries it. Enjoy a slice with your favorite coffee or tea and savor a taste of history.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use homemade pie crust for this dish?
Yes, both homemade and store-bought crusts work well, allowing for personal preference and convenience.
- → How do I know when the filling is set?
The center should have a slight jiggle while the crust is golden; chilling helps firm up the creamy filling further.
- → What can be served alongside for extra flavor?
Berries and whipped cream add freshness and richness to the finished dessert.
- → Are there vegan alternatives for this dish?
Substitute butter with plant-based spreads and use a vegan pie crust for a suitable adaptation.
- → Is it possible to add a hint of spice?
Cinnamon or nutmeg can be sprinkled into the filling prior to baking for deeper flavor notes.
- → What tools are required?
A pie pan, mixing bowl, measuring utensils, and access to an oven are needed for preparation.