Pin it 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 heard about water pie from my grandmother, who remembered enjoying it during difficult times. The simplicity amazed me, but the final taste is anything but ordinary: it's smooth, subtly sweet, and evokes fond memories of family gatherings.
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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
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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 Sugar & Flour:
- Mix together sugar and flour until thoroughly combined. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the water in the crust.
- Add Flavorings:
- Drizzle vanilla extract over the top and add a pinch of salt.
- Top with Butter:
- Slice the butter into thin pats and distribute them evenly over the surface.
- Bake:
- Transfer the pie to the lower rack of the oven. Bake for 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
- Reduce 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 & Chill:
- Remove from oven, cool completely to room temperature. Refrigerate at least 2 hours before slicing for best texture.
Pin it Water pie is a playful way to connect with history. The first time I made it for my family, my kids marveled that something so simple could taste so good, and we all ended up sharing stories around the table.
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Required Tools
You'll need a 9-inch pie pan, mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, and an oven to prepare this classic dessert.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains about 210 calories, 8 g fat, 33 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein, making this dessert suitable for those wanting a treat with modest calories.
Recipe Variations
Add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg before baking for a hint of spice, or serve with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a modern twist.
Pin it 
This delightfully old-fashioned dessert is bound to surprise everyone. Enjoy each creamy slice and share a piece of culinary history with your loved ones.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What gives water pie its creamy texture?
The combination of water, sugar, flour, and butter creates a custard-like filling that sets when baked.
- → Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes, both store-bought and homemade crusts work well for this dessert. Ensure it's unbaked before adding filling.
- → How do I know when it's fully baked?
The crust should be golden and the filling mostly set, with a slight jiggle remaining in the center.
- → Is there a vegan option?
Use plant-based butter and a vegan pie crust for a dairy-free variation with similar texture and flavor.
- → Can I add spices for extra flavor?
A hint of cinnamon or nutmeg can be mixed in before baking to complement the vanilla undertones.
- → How should I serve water pie?
Allow it to cool and refrigerate before slicing. Adding berries or whipped cream makes a delicious finishing touch.
