Pin it A vintage, surprisingly creamy pie made with pantry staples and minimal dairy, perfect for a light and comforting dessert.
I remember my grandmother pulling this recipe out when groceries were running low, yet everyone still left the table smiling after dessert.
Ingredients
- Unbaked 9-inch pie crust: 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 (or plant-based butter)
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Instructions
- Prepare the oven:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Prepare the crust:
- Place the pie crust in 9-inch pie plate and crimp the edges
- Combine dry ingredients:
- Whisk flour, sugar, and salt together in a bowl
- Layer dry mixture:
- Sprinkle flour mixture into pie crust evenly
- Add water:
- Slowly pour water over the dry mixture, moistening all
- Top with butter and vanilla:
- Dot with butter pieces, drizzle vanilla extract on top; do not stir
- Bake:
- Bake 30 minutes, then reduce oven to 375°F (190°C), bake 20 more minutes until set on edges but slightly jiggly in center
- Cool and chill:
- Cool completely, refrigerate at least 2 hours before slicing
Pin it 
Pin it This pie was always at the holiday table for my family, paired with stories from past generations about stretching every ingredient to delight the crowd.
Required Tools
9-inch pie plate, mixing bowl, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, oven
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), contains dairy unless using plant-based butter, check crust ingredients for allergens
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 190, Total Fat: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 34 g, Protein: 2 g
Pin it 
Pin it The simplicity of water pie makes it a lovely surprise for gatherings. Just slice and savor the creamy texture with each bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → What gives Water Pie its creamy texture?
The combination of flour, sugar, and butter mixed with water creates a custard-like filling that sets during baking, giving the pie its creamy texture.
- → Can I make this dessert dairy-free?
Yes, substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative creates a dairy-free version without losing its richness.
- → How should I serve this dessert for the best flavor?
It’s best served chilled or at room temperature, and you can add powdered sugar or fresh berries for extra flavor and presentation.
- → Is it necessary to stir the filling after pouring the water?
No, stirring is avoided to maintain the desired texture; the water hydrates the dry ingredients evenly as it bakes.
- → Can I add spices to enhance the flavor?
Yes, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can be added for subtle warmth and complexity.