Skip to Content

Water Pie Recipe

By: Author Austin Carter

Posted on  - Last updated:

Water Pie Recipe
Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug from the past, Water Pie is your answer. Rooted in Depression-era America, this recipe is a beautiful blend of necessity and creativity.

With just a handful of simple ingredients—most of which you likely have on hand—Water Pie transforms into a comforting treat that’s both intriguing and nostalgic.

This pie marries the best of custard and pie with its smooth, creamy texture nestled in a flaky crust. The understated elegance of Water Pie shines through with its delicate hint of vanilla and light sweetness.

It’s a testament to how basic ingredients can come together to create something truly delightful.

Why I Love This Recipe?

  • Comfort in Every Slice: It’s a humble pie that’s great for everyday enjoyment or for impressing guests with its unique flavor and history.
  • A Nostalgic Touch: My grandmother used to make Water Pie during the lean years, and each bite reminds me of her creativity and resilience.
  • Easy Ingredients: With just water, sugar, butter, and flour, it’s perfect for those days when you want to whip up something simple yet satisfying.
  • Versatile Delight: I’ve added a dash of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract for a personal twist, and it’s always met with smiles.
Water Pie Recipe {A Classic from The Great Depression}

Water Pie Recipe

This nostalgic Water Pie is a simple, comforting dessert with a creamy filling and buttery crust. Perfect for any sweet craving!
Hit the Rating button
Print Pin Rate
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Chilling Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 9 hours 10 minutes
Calories: 310kcal
Author: Austin Carter
Servings: 8

Equipment

  • Pie Dish
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Spoon for stirring
  • Oven
  • Aluminum foil or pie crust shield

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • Perfect Pie Crust unbaked
  • 2 tsp. vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 tsp. cider vinegar
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
  • 6 tbsp cold butter cut into thin slices

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400°F.
  • Pour water into the Perfect Pie Crust. Drizzle vanilla and vinegar over the water.
  • Mix sugar, flour, and salt in a medium bowl.
  • Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the water mixture in the crust.
  • Place cold butter slices on top.
  • Bake at 400°F for 30 minutes. Shield the pie crust, reduce oven temperature to 375°F, and bake for another 30 minutes.
  • Remove the pie from the oven (filling will be watery). Cool to room temperature, about 1 hour.
  • Loosely cover the pie and refrigerate until fully set, about 8 hours.

Nutrition

Calories: 310kcal | Carbohydrates: 46g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 35mg | Sodium: 190mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 26g
Keyword best water pie recipe, easy water pie recipe, water pie, water pie ingredients, water pie recipe

Tips that Are Bliss!

  • Par-Bake the Crust: Don’t skip par-baking the pie crust. This step ensures the crust won’t be soggy on the bottom as the filling won’t seep through.
  • Use Warm Water: For best results, use warm water in the filling. This helps it blend properly with the flour.
  • Butter Placement: Although it may look odd, place the butter on top of the filling, not inside it.
  • Check for Doneness: When the pie is done, it should have a slight jiggle in the middle but not be too watery. If it moves too much, cook it for a few more minutes.
  • Proper Cooling: Cooling the pie properly is crucial. It needs to be set fully before being cut into individual slices.

What to Serve with Water Pie?

What to Serve with Water Pie

Recipe Rating