Save A vintage, surprisingly creamy pie made with pantry staples and minimal dairy, perfect for a light and comforting dessert.
I first discovered water pie when searching for a fuss-free dessert that could be whipped up with little preparation and basic ingredients, and it quickly became a go-to treat in my kitchen.
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 pieces (use plant-based butter for dairy-free)
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Instructions
- Prepare for baking:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Form the base:
- 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.
- Add dry mixture to crust:
- Evenly sprinkle the dry mixture into the pie crust.
- Moisten the filling:
- Slowly pour the water over the dry ingredients in the crust, making sure to moisten all the flour and sugar. Do not stir.
- Add butter and vanilla:
- Dot the surface with butter pieces and drizzle the vanilla extract over the top.
- Bake the pie:
- Bake for 30 minutes, then reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for 20 minutes, until the filling is set around edges but may still jiggle slightly in the center.
- Cool and chill:
- Remove from oven and cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Save Sharing a slice of this comforting pie always brings back memories of cozy family nights and the joy of simple treats around the table.
Required Tools
9-inch pie plate, mixing bowl, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, oven
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), dairy (butter) unless substituted. Check crust ingredients for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 190 calories, 6 g total fat, 34 g carbohydrates, 2 g protein
Save Serve your water pie chilled or at room temperature and enjoy its gentle sweetness with a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Recipe FAQs
- → What gives water pie its creamy texture?
The creamy texture comes from the combination of flour, sugar, water, and butter baking together to create a custard-like filling.
- → Can I make a dairy-free version of the pie?
Yes, simply substitute unsalted butter with plant-based alternatives to keep it dairy-free without sacrificing creaminess.
- → How should I serve water pie for best taste?
Water pie is best served chilled or at room temperature, and can be enhanced with a dusting of powdered sugar or fresh berries.
- → Is it necessary to stir the filling before baking?
No, the filling should not be stirred once water is poured over the dry ingredients to maintain the pie's unique texture.
- → What variations can I add for extra flavor?
Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry mixture before baking to introduce warm, aromatic notes.