Save to Pinterest A vintage, surprisingly creamy pie made with pantry staples and minimal dairy, perfect for a light and comforting dessert.
I first heard of water pie from my grandmother, who made it during lean times. I was amazed how such humble ingredients could create a delicious and nostalgic dessert that our family still requests today.
Ingredients
- Unbaked pie crust: 1 (9-inch), 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:
- Set 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 bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add dry mixture:
- Sprinkle the flour mixture evenly into the pie crust.
- Add water:
- Slowly pour water over the dry ingredients to moisten all flour and sugar. Do not stir.
- Add butter and vanilla:
- Dot with butter pieces and drizzle vanilla extract over the top.
- Bake:
- Bake for 30 minutes, then reduce heat to 375°F (190°C) and bake another 20 minutes. The filling should be set on the edges, slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and chill:
- Remove pie from oven, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate at least 2 hours before slicing.
Save to Pinterest This pie quickly became a family favorite at our gatherings. My dad always tops his piece with a handful of fresh berries, and it brings back fond memories with every bite.
Flavor Variations
Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg onto the filling before baking for a cozy twist. Top with powdered sugar or whipped cream once chilled.
Serving Suggestions
Serve water pie chilled for a firm, custardy texture, or at room temperature for an even silkier bite.
Storage Tips
Store leftover water pie covered in the refrigerator up to 3 days. For best texture, let stand at room temperature 5-10 minutes before serving.
Save to Pinterest This comforting pie is perfect when you need something sweet but simple. Enjoy a slice while reminiscing or making new memories.
Recipe FAQs
- → What gives the water pie its creamy texture?
The combination of water, flour, sugar, and butter creates a custard-like consistency when baked, resulting in a delicate creaminess despite minimal dairy.
- → Can the butter be substituted for a dairy-free alternative?
Yes, plant-based butter works well as a substitute to keep the texture rich and suitable for dairy-free diets.
- → How should the pie be served for best flavor?
It can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, and optionally topped with powdered sugar or fresh berries to enhance its flavor.
- → Is stirring required after adding water to dry ingredients?
No stirring is needed; the water should be poured slowly to moisten the mixture evenly without mixing, which helps set the filling properly.
- → What variations can be added for extra flavor?
A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can be sprinkled into the filling before baking to add a warm, aromatic touch.