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.
My grandmother told stories about making water pie for her family when ingredients were scarce. Recreating this dessert in my own kitchen was a warm reminder of resilience and creativity during tough times.
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:
- Set oven to 400°F (200°C) before starting.
- Prepare crust:
- Place unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan and crimp edges.
- Add water:
- Pour 1 1/2 cups water directly into crust.
- Combine sugar and flour:
- Mix sugar and flour in a small bowl, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over water.
- Flavor and season:
- Drizzle vanilla extract over surface and add a pinch of salt.
- Add butter:
- Slice butter into thin pats, distribute evenly over top.
- Bake:
- Carefully transfer to lower rack in oven. Bake for 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
- Reduce heat:
- Lower temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for another 20 minutes, until crust is golden and filling is mostly set with a slight jiggle in center.
- Cool and chill:
- Remove pie and let cool completely to room temperature. Refrigerate at least 2 hours before slicing.
Save to Pinterest When I baked water pie for my family, everyone was skeptical at first but ended up loving the subtle vanilla flavor and caramelized edges. It was a sweet trip down memory lane for all generations at our table.
Required Tools
9-inch pie pan, mixing bowl, measuring cups, and oven are needed to assemble and bake this pie with ease.
Allergen Information
This dessert contains wheat (gluten) and dairy (butter). Check the pie crust ingredients for egg, dairy, or soy, especially if using store-bought.
Nutritional Information
Per slice: Calories: 210, Total Fat: 8 g, Carbohydrates: 33 g, Protein: 2 g.
Save to Pinterest Try serving your water pie with whipped cream or fresh fruit for a bright, modern finish. Its simple ingredients and sweet nostalgia make it a surprisingly delightful dessert to share.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What is the texture of water pie?
Water pie has a creamy, custard-like filling and a crisp, sugary crust, offering a smooth and delicate mouthfeel.
- → Can I use vegan ingredients?
Absolutely. Substitute plant-based butter and a vegan pie crust to make a fully plant-based version.
- → What flavors can I add to enhance water pie?
Adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or a touch of citrus zest gives subtle spice and aromatic notes to the filling.
- → Do I need special tools to make water pie?
All you need is a standard 9-inch pie pan, mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, and an oven.
- → How do I serve water pie for best results?
Let the pie cool completely and refrigerate before slicing. It pairs beautifully with berries or whipped cream.
- → Is water pie suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, water pie is vegetarian-friendly since it contains no meat or gelatin ingredients.