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 remember discovering water pie in my grandmother's old recipe box and was amazed by how simple ingredients could create such an inviting dessert. Its delightful taste brings back cherished memories of family gatherings and resourceful home cooking.
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 the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Crust setup:
- Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan. Crimp the edges as desired.
- Add water:
- Pour the water directly into the pie crust.
- Sugar and flour mix:
- Mix together the sugar and flour in a bowl until combined. Sprinkle evenly over the water in the crust.
- Flavor additions:
- Drizzle vanilla extract over the top and add a pinch of salt.
- Add butter:
- Slice butter into thin pats and distribute evenly on the surface.
- Bake initial:
- Transfer pie to the lower rack of the oven. Bake for 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
- Bake final:
- Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20 more minutes, until crust is golden and filling is set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Cool and refrigerate:
- Remove pie from oven and let cool completely to room temperature. Refrigerate at least 2 hours before slicing for best texture.
Save We love serving water pie during Sunday get-togethers, and it never fails to inspire stories of simple but meaningful family traditions.
Required Tools
You'll need a 9-inch pie pan, mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, and an oven to prepare this dessert.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) and dairy (butter). Check store-bought pie crust for possible egg, dairy, or soy ingredients.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Each slice of water pie has about 210 calories, 8 g total fat, 33 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein.
Save Water pie is proof that humble ingredients can create something truly special. Enjoy a slice with whipped cream or fresh berries for a comforting finish.
Recipe FAQ
- → What gives water pie its creamy texture?
The mixture of water, flour, sugar, and butter creates a custard-like filling that sets as it bakes and cools.
- → Can store-bought crust be used?
Yes, store-bought or homemade pie crust works well as a base for water pie.
- → How long does water pie need to chill?
Refrigerate the baked pie for at least two hours for the best texture and easier slicing.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, with butter and flour as main ingredients, it aligns with a vegetarian diet, though vegan options are possible.
- → How can flavor be enhanced?
Add ground cinnamon, nutmeg, berries, or a dollop of whipped cream for extra flavor dimensions.
- → What allergens are in water pie?
It contains wheat (gluten) and dairy from butter; check store-bought crusts for additional allergens.