Save A vintage, surprisingly creamy pie made with pantry staples and minimal dairy is perfect for a light and comforting dessert. Water Pie has roots in American home cooking, making the most of what's on hand for a sweet treat.
My first Water Pie turned out so silky and tender it reminded me of old-fashioned family reunions, where clever cooks made something delicious from almost nothing.
Ingredients
- Unbaked pie crust: one 9-inch, either 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 (may use plant-based butter).
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon.
Instructions
- Prepare Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange 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.
- Layer Dry in Crust:
- 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 flour and sugar are moistened. Do not stir.
- Finish Filling:
- Dot the surface with butter pieces and drizzle the vanilla extract over the top.
- Bake:
- Bake for 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C), then reduce to 375°F (190°C) and bake for another 20 minutes. The filling will set around the edges and may jiggle slightly in the center.
- Cool:
- Remove from oven. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Save 
Save After making Water Pie, we sliced it up for a weeknight treat, and it sparked stories from my grandmother about how sweets used to be humble and practical.
Required Tools
9-inch pie plate, mixing bowl, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, oven.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) and dairy (unless using a plant-based butter). Always check your crust ingredients for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 190 calories, 6 g total fat, 34 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein.
Save 
Save This retro pie is special served chilled or at room temperature, topped simply with berries or powdered sugar. Water Pie proves resourceful baking can be deliciously satisfying.
Recipe Questions
- → What gives water pie its creamy texture?
The combination of flour, sugar, and water, along with butter and vanilla, creates a custard-like filling that sets creamy and smooth.
- → Can I make this water pie dairy-free?
Yes, by substituting plant-based butter for regular butter, you can enjoy a dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.
- → How long should water pie chill before serving?
Chill the pie for at least 2 hours after baking to allow the filling to fully set and develop its delicate texture.
- → What flavor variations work well with water pie?
A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warm spice notes, while topping with fresh berries or a light dusting of powdered sugar enhances freshness.
- → Is the crust best homemade or store-bought?
Either works well; a 9-inch unbaked pie crust, store-bought or homemade, provides a flaky base that complements the smooth filling.