Pin this A vintage, surprisingly creamy pie made with pantry staples and minimal dairy, perfect for a light and comforting dessert.
The first time I baked Water Pie, I was intrigued by how simple the recipe sounded. It turned out to be a nostalgic treat in our family, always requested by my grandmother because it reminds her of desserts from her childhood.
Ingredients
- Unbaked 9-inch pie crust: Store-bought or homemade
- Water: 1 1/2 cups (355 ml)
- All-purpose flour: 7 tablespoons (55 g)
- Granulated sugar: 3/4 cup (150 g)
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons (28 g), cut into small pieces (use plant-based butter for dairy-free)
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Prepare crust:
- Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate and crimp the edges
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt
- Assemble pie:
- Evenly sprinkle the dry mixture into the pie crust
- Add water:
- Slowly pour the water over the dry ingredients in the crust, making sure all the flour and sugar are moistened
- Finish topping:
- Do not stir. Dot the surface with butter pieces and drizzle the vanilla extract over the top
- Bake:
- Bake for 30 minutes, then reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for another 20 minutes, until the filling is set around the edges but may still jiggle slightly in the center
- Cool and chill:
- Remove from oven and cool completely to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing
Pin this We usually make Water Pie for family gatherings when we need an easy dessert that pleases all ages. My kids love to help sprinkle sugar and flour before the magic happens in the oven.
Required Tools
9-inch pie plate, mixing bowl, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, oven
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten). Contains dairy (butter) if not using plant-based substitute. Check crust ingredients for possible allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 190, Total Fat: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 34 g, Protein: 2 g (per serving)
Pin this This pie is simple enough for a weeknight, yet nostalgic enough for holidays. Enjoy each creamy slice as a sweet piece of American history.
Recipe FAQs
- → What gives Water Pie its creamy texture?
The combination of flour, sugar, and butter mixed with water creates a delicate custard-like filling that becomes creamy once baked.
- → Can I make this pie dairy-free?
Yes, substitute unsalted butter with plant-based butter to keep the creamy texture while avoiding dairy.
- → How should I serve Water Pie for best flavor?
Chilling the pie for at least two hours improves the texture and flavor. It can be served cold or at room temperature.
- → What variations can enhance the flavor of Water Pie?
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for subtle warmth, or garnish with fresh berries and powdered sugar.
- → Is it necessary to stir the filling after assembling?
No stirring ensures the filling sets properly, giving the pie its smooth, soft custard consistency.