Pin 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 while exploring old family recipes and was amazed by its simplicity and gentle vanilla flavor that reminds me of holidays spent baking with my grandmother.
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).
- Arrange the crust:
- Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan and crimp the edges as desired.
- Add water:
- Pour the water directly into the pie crust.
- Combine dry ingredients:
- Mix together the sugar and flour in a small bowl until thoroughly combined. Sprinkle evenly over the water in the crust.
- Flavor and salt:
- Drizzle vanilla extract over the top and add a pinch of salt.
- Add butter:
- Slice the butter into thin pats and distribute evenly over the surface.
- Bake the pie:
- Carefully transfer the pie to the lower oven rack and 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 oven, cool completely to room temperature, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Pin 
Sharing water pie at a family gathering sparked stories about creative baking during challenging times and brought smiles around the table.
Required Tools
You will need a 9-inch pie pan, mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, and an oven.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) and dairy (butter). Check your store-bought crust ingredients for possible egg, dairy, or soy.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains about 210 calories, 8 g total fat, 33 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein.
Pin Enjoy a nostalgic slice of water pie for dessert and share a piece of history with your loved ones.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What gives water pie its creamy texture?
The combination of flour, sugar, butter, and water forms a custard-like filling after baking, offering smoothness and creaminess.
- → Can I add spices to water pie?
Yes, ground cinnamon or nutmeg can be added for a warm, aromatic flavor.
- → Is water pie suitable for vegetarians?
It uses butter and a standard pie crust, making it vegetarian-friendly.
- → How long does the pie need to cool?
Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least two hours for optimal texture and easier slicing.
- → Can I use plant-based butter and crust?
Absolutely, these substitutions yield a vegan-friendly version.
- → How should water pie be served?
Serve chilled, with fresh fruit or whipped cream for added flavor and presentation.