Save A vintage, surprisingly creamy pie made with pantry staples and minimal dairy, perfect for a light and comforting dessert.
Growing up, water pie was one of those magical desserts my grandmother would make on quiet afternoons, and I always marveled at how a few basic ingredients could come together to create such nostalgia on a plate.
Ingredients
- Crust: 1 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 (or plant-based substitute): 2 tablespoons (28 g), cut into small pieces
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Instructions
- Prep Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare 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.
- Add to 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 to moisten all the flour and sugar.
- Add Butter and Vanilla:
- Do not stir. 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 Chill:
- Remove from oven and cool completely to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Save 
Save This pie has quietly become a favorite at our family gatherings, where stories of resourceful home cooks and simple joys are shared between each delicious bite.
Required Tools
9-inch pie plate, mixing bowl, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, oven
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) and dairy (butter) unless you use a plant-based substitute. Be sure to check the pie crust for additional allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 190, Total Fat: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 34 g, Protein: 2 g
Save 
Save Share this vintage treat whenever you need a comforting and inviting dessert. Water pie is proof that even basic ingredients can shine beautifully.
Cooking Guide
- → What gives Water Pie its creamy texture?
The combination of flour and sugar with water creates a custard-like filling that bakes into a creamy, slightly jiggly consistency.
- → Can I make this pie dairy-free?
Yes, by substituting unsalted butter with plant-based butter, the pie can be made completely dairy-free without losing its creamy nature.
- → How should I serve Water Pie for best flavor?
Serve chilled or at room temperature, optionally dusted with powdered sugar or topped with fresh berries to enhance the flavors.
- → Does the pie crust need prebaking?
No, this version uses an unbaked pie crust that bakes together with the filling, allowing the custard-like mixture to set properly.
- → Can I add spices to the filling?
Yes, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can be added to the dry mixture for subtle warmth and depth of flavor.