Pin Recipe 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 made water pie out of curiosity after hearing stories from my grandmother about Great Depression recipes. The results were unexpectedly comforting and delicious, taking us back to another era with each slice.
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).
- Prepare the pie 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.
- Add vanilla and salt:
- 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 the pie:
- Carefully transfer the pie to the lower rack of the oven. Bake for 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
- Reduce temperature and finish baking:
- 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 chill:
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing for best texture.
Pin Recipe This water pie is a family favorite whenever we gather for a simple dessert at home. My kids love helping sprinkle the sugar mix over the water before baking.
Variations
Add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg before baking for subtle warmth, or swap in plant-based butter and vegan crust to make it vegan-friendly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a modern touch, or enjoy plain to appreciate its authentic flavor.
Allergen & Nutrition Info
This pie contains wheat (gluten) and dairy (butter). A typical slice has about 210 calories, 8g fat, 33g carbs, and 2g protein.
Pin Recipe Try water pie for a sweet taste of history. Its simple preparation and nostalgic flavor make it perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes water pie creamy?
The combination of flour, butter, and sugar creates a custard-like texture when baked, giving water pie its creamy consistency.
- → How can I customize the flavor?
Add ground cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth, or serve with fresh berries and whipped cream for a modern touch.
- → Is it possible to make water pie vegan?
Yes, simply replace butter with plant-based alternatives and use a vegan-friendly crust for a dairy-free version.
- → Why does the filling have a slight jiggle?
The water and flour mixture sets as a soft custard during baking, resulting in a gentle jiggle once cooled and sliced.
- → Can I prepare water pie ahead of time?
Absolutely. Cool the pie completely and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing to achieve the ideal creamy texture.
- → What is the best way to serve water pie?
Slice the pie once chilled for clean cuts, then serve as is or topped with whipped cream, berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar.