Water Pie: Great Depression Dessert Recipe

Introduction

Water pie is a surprisingly rich and creamy dessert that harks back to the Great Depression era. Made with simple pantry staples, this humble pie offers a delicate custard-like filling with a buttery crust, perfect for anyone seeking an easy, nostalgic treat.

Ingredients

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust, store-bought or homemade
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking.
2. Step 2: Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan and crimp the edges as desired for structure.
3. Step 3: Pour 1 1/2 cups of water evenly into the prepared pie crust.
4. Step 4: In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and all-purpose flour until fully blended.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the sugar and flour mixture evenly over the water in the crust.
6. Step 6: Drizzle 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract over the surface and add a pinch of salt.
7. Step 7: Cut the unsalted butter into thin pats and arrange them evenly on top of the filling.
8. Step 8: Place the pie on the lower oven rack and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes.
9. Step 9: Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for another 20 minutes, until the crust is golden and the filling slightly jiggles when shaken.
10. Step 10: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature on the counter.
11. Step 11: Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours before slicing to allow it to set properly.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, try using half water and half milk instead of all water.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top before baking for a warm, spicy touch.
• Use a homemade crust for extra buttery texture, or a store-bought if short on time.

Storage

Store leftover water pie in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap or an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat slices gently at room temperature or enjoy chilled for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What does water pie taste like?

Water pie has a sweet, custard-like flavor with a delicate creaminess and a buttery crust. Despite its simple ingredients, it tastes surprisingly rich and comforting.

Can I make water pie ahead of time?

Yes, water pie benefits from chilling for at least 2 hours after baking, making it ideal for preparing a day in advance. It slices more cleanly and holds its texture better when well chilled.

Water Pie: Great Depression Dessert Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 121 reviews

• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 3 hours (including chilling time)
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

Water Pie is a classic Great Depression-era dessert that delivers a surprisingly rich and creamy custard-like filling using simple pantry staples, with water as the main ingredient. This budget-friendly pie features a sweet, buttery filling set within a flaky pie crust, perfect for an easy homemade treat.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pie Base

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

Filling

• 1 1/2 cups water
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the pie.
2. Prepare Crust: Place the unbaked 9-inch pie crust into a pie pan and crimp the edges to secure it. This will help maintain the shape as the filling cooks.
3. Add Water: Pour 1 1/2 cups of water evenly into the prepared pie crust, which forms the base of the filling.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine 3/4 cup granulated sugar with 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour, mixing thoroughly to blend.
5. Assemble Filling: Sprinkle the sugar and flour mixture evenly over the water in the pie crust, distributing it to ensure a consistent sweet filling.
6. Season: Drizzle 1 teaspoon vanilla extract over the top of the filling and add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
7. Distribute Butter: Slice 4 tablespoons unsalted butter into small pats and place them evenly over the filling surface for richness.
8. Initial Bake: Place the pie on the lower rack of the oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes to start setting the filling and crisping the crust.
9. Reduce Temperature and Continue Baking: Lower the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 20 minutes, until the crust is golden and the filling slightly jiggles but holds together.
10. Cool and Chill: Remove the pie from the oven, allow it to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up for optimal slicing and serving.

Notes

• Use a pre-made pie crust to save time or homemade for better control over flavor and texture.
• Ensure the pie is fully chilled before slicing to allow the custard to set properly.
• Butter should be evenly distributed for an even melt and richness throughout the filling.
• If you prefer, sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg on top before baking for added warmth and flavor.
• This pie is best served chilled or at room temperature.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Water Pie, Great Depression Dessert, Classic Pie, Budget Dessert, Easy Pie Recipe