Description
Water pie is a nostalgic, simple dessert that originated during the Great Depression when ingredients were scarce. Despite its humble ingredients—water, sugar, butter, and flour—this pie delivers a surprisingly smooth and custardy filling that pairs perfectly with a flaky crust. With a subtle vanilla flavor and a light, velvety texture, water pie is a reminder of the resourcefulness and creativity born out of difficult times. Whether you’re looking to explore vintage recipes or try something new with minimal ingredients, this easy-to-make pie is a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/4 cups sugar (250g)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (30g)
- 1 1/2 cups water (360ml)
- 2 tablespoons butter (28g)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a pie dish with the pie crust, gently pressing it into place, trimming any excess dough.
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Mix the dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and a pinch of salt. These will help thicken the filling while adding sweetness.
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Add water to the mixture: Pour the water into the dry ingredients, stirring until everything is well combined. It will look runny, but that’s the desired consistency.
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Add butter and vanilla: Cut the butter into small pieces and scatter it over the mixture. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
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Pour into the crust: Carefully pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust, ensuring the butter is evenly distributed.
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Bake the pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the pie is golden on top and the filling has set.
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Cool and serve: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. The filling will firm up as it cools. Serve as is or with a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Notes
- Gluten-Free Option: To make water pie gluten-free, simply swap the regular pie crust for a gluten-free version available in stores.
- Flavor Variations: Try adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy, spiced flavor. For a citrusy twist, a bit of lemon zest or juice can complement the sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Pie
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 270 kcal
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: water pie, Depression-era dessert, vintage pie recipe, simple pie, frugal desserts, custard pie, easy pie recipes