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.
This pie genuinely surprised me with how delicious the texture turned out, especially considering its humble ingredients. I first baked it as a fun history project with my kids, and now it makes a quirky conversation starter whenever it's served.
Ingredients
- Unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade): Forms the base and edges of the pie
- Water: 1 1/2 cups for the custardy filling
- Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons sliced, gives richness
- Granulated sugar: 3/4 cup for sweetness
- All-purpose flour: 3 tablespoons for thickening
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon for flavor
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Set oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Pie Crust:
- Place pie crust in 9-inch pie pan and crimp the edges.
- Add Water:
- Pour water directly into the pie crust.
- Mix Sugar and Flour:
- Combine sugar and flour in a bowl, then sprinkle evenly over the water in the crust.
- Add Flavorings:
- Drizzle vanilla extract and pinch of salt over the top.
- Distribute Butter:
- Slice the butter and lay pats across the surface.
- Bake:
- Bake on lower oven rack for 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
- Reduce Heat:
- Lower oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20 minutes more, until crust is golden and filling has a slight jiggle.
- Cool and Chill:
- Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate at least 2 hours before slicing.
Save Making water pie with my grandmother was always a highlight on rainy afternoons. She would let me sprinkle the sugar, promising it would taste like a hidden treat from her childhood.
Required Tools
You'll need a 9-inch pie pan, mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, along with an oven to bake the pie.
Allergen Information
Water pie contains wheat (gluten) and dairy (butter). If using a store-bought crust, check for possible egg, dairy, or soy inclusions.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Per slice: 210 calories, 8 g total fat, 33 g carbohydrates, 2 g protein.
Save Serve your water pie with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries. Each slice makes a sweet tribute to resourceful home baking.
Recipe Guide
- → What texture does water pie have?
Water pie sets into a soft, custard-like filling with a creamy consistency beneath a crisp crust, offering a unique mouthfeel.
- → Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes, a premade crust works well. Ensure it's unbaked before pouring in the filling and baking.
- → Is water pie suitable for vegetarians?
The traditional version uses butter, but plant-based alternatives make it suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets.
- → How do I know when it's finished baking?
The filling should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center, and the crust golden brown. Cool before slicing for best results.
- → Can I add extra flavorings?
Try stirring in cinnamon or nutmeg before baking, or topping with berries or whipped cream for added flavor.
- → Does water pie contain common allergens?
It contains wheat (in the flour and crust) and dairy (butter). Check crust packaging for any extra ingredients like eggs or soy.