Pin it A vintage, surprisingly creamy pie made with pantry staples and minimal dairy, perfect for a light and comforting dessert.
I first made Water Pie after hearing stories from my grandmother about resourceful desserts during hard times. It amazed my family how a pie made from water and flour could taste so comforting and creamy.
Ingredients
- Unbaked pie crust (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 (plant-based butter for dairy-free)
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Set the 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 Ingredients:
- Evenly sprinkle the dry mixture into the pie crust.
- Add Water:
- 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:
- Bake for 30 minutes, then reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for another 20 minutes, until the filling is set around the edges but may still jiggle slightly in the center.
- Cool and Refrigerate:
- Remove from oven and cool completely to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Pin it This simple pie has become a tiny tradition for Sunday afternoons when my kids help with measuring and patience while it cools. Their favorite topping is powdered sugar and fresh berries.
Required Tools
9-inch pie plate, mixing bowl, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, oven
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), contains dairy (butter) unless using plant-based substitute, always check crust ingredients for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 190 calories, 6 g fat, 34 g carbohydrates, 2 g protein
Pin it Water Pie is a true taste of simplicity and comfort. You’ll be surprised how satisfying and creamy each slice is.
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes the filling creamy without dairy?
The filling’s creamy texture comes from the combination of flour, sugar, and water baked together with butter and vanilla, creating a custard-like consistency.
- → Can I make this pie dairy-free?
Yes, by replacing the butter with plant-based alternatives, you can enjoy a dairy-free version without compromising the creamy texture.
- → How should the pie be served?
This pie is best served chilled or at room temperature, which helps the filling set and enhances its light, comforting flavor.
- → What are some suggested flavor enhancements?
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for warm spice notes that complement the creamy texture.
- → How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The filling should be set around the edges but still jiggle slightly in the center, indicating a silky custard-like finish.