Water Pie Great Depression (Printable version)

Creamy vanilla filling and crisp crust create a comforting classic from simple ingredients. Satisfy nostalgic dessert cravings.

# What you need:

→ Pie

01 - 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
02 - 1 1/2 cups water
03 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
04 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
05 - 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
06 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 - Pinch of salt

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Arrange the unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan and crimp the edges.
02 - Pour 1 1/2 cups water directly into the pie crust.
03 - In a mixing bowl, blend 3/4 cup granulated sugar with 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour until uniform. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the water within the crust.
04 - Drizzle 1 teaspoon vanilla extract across the filling and add a pinch of salt.
05 - Slice 4 tablespoons unsalted butter into thin pats and place evenly over the surface.
06 - Place the pie on the lower rack of the oven. Bake for 30 minutes at 400°F.
07 - Reduce oven temperature to 375°F and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the center exhibits a gentle jiggle.
08 - Remove pie from oven and let stand at room temperature until fully cooled. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing to achieve optimal texture.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses only simple pantry ingredients
  • Custard-like filling with crisp, sugary crust
02 -
  • The pie filling sets with a slight jiggle—it firms up after chilling in the fridge
  • Check store-bought crusts for allergens such as egg, dairy, or soy
03 -
  • To prevent soggy pie crust, bake on a lower oven rack for direct heat
  • Chill thoroughly before slicing for the cleanest pieces
Return