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.
I first learned about water pie when searching for classic American desserts—it was amazing to discover how such basic ingredients could deliver comforting, old-fashioned flavors reminiscent of my grandmother's kitchen.
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 Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Prepare 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
- Combine & Sprinkle:
- Mix sugar and flour in a bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the water in the crust
- Add Vanilla & Salt:
- Drizzle vanilla extract and sprinkle a pinch of salt over the top
- Add Butter:
- Slice butter into thin pats and distribute evenly over the surface
- Bake:
- Place pie on the lower oven rack. Bake for 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C)
- Reduce Heat & Finish Baking:
- Reduce temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake 20 minutes more, until crust is golden and filling is set with a slight jiggle in the center
- Cool & Chill:
- Remove from oven, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate at least 2 hours before slicing
Save to Pinterest Our family enjoys sharing water pie at Sunday supper—even kids are intrigued by its simple magic and we always talk about its history at the table.
Serving Suggestions
Top slices with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a modern twist, or enjoy plain to appreciate its subtle sweetness.
Recipe Variations
Add a half teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg before baking for a hint of warm spice, or swap dairy butter and crust for vegan alternatives if needed.
Nutritional Information
Each slice contains about 210 calories, 8 g total fat, 33 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein.
Save to Pinterest Water pie is a humble dessert that impresses with its texture and history. You'll want to share the story along with each slice!
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → How does water create a creamy filling?
Water interacts with flour and sugar, forming a custard-like texture as it bakes with butter and vanilla for a unique creamy filling.
- → Is Water Pie difficult to prepare?
No, Water Pie is very simple and requires only basic mixing and layering steps, making it easy for beginners.
- → Can I make Water Pie vegan?
Yes, substitute plant-based butter and a vegan pie crust to create a dairy-free and egg-free version.
- → What toppings pair well with Water Pie?
Whipped cream, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg complement its subtle flavors nicely.
- → Why chill the pie before serving?
Chilling helps the filling set fully, making it easier to slice and improving the texture for serving.