Save A vintage, surprisingly creamy pie made with pantry staples and minimal dairy, perfect for a light and comforting dessert.
I first tried water pie when searching for an easy dessert to make for my vegetarian friends using items I already had in the pantry. The gentle sweetness and custard-like texture impressed everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- Pie 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: 2 tablespoons (28 g), cut into small pieces (use plant-based butter for dairy-free)
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Instructions
- Prep the oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare 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.
- Add to crust:
- Evenly sprinkle the dry mixture into the pie crust.
- Pour 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 Sharing water pie after a family Sunday dinner became a sweet tradition. Everyone gathers with curiosity and nostalgia, amazed by its silky texture.
Required Tools
9-inch pie plate, mixing bowl, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, oven
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), contains dairy (butter) unless a plant-based substitute is used. Check crust ingredients for additional allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories, 190. Total Fat, 6 g. Carbohydrates, 34 g. Protein, 2 g.
Save 
Save Enjoy every silky bite with loved ones. This nostalgic treat proves that comforting desserts don't require expensive ingredients.
Recipe FAQs
- → What gives the pie its creamy texture?
The combination of flour and sugar mixed with water forms a custard-like filling, enhanced by butter, creating a smooth, creamy texture once baked.
- → Can I use plant-based butter in this pie?
Yes, substituting with plant-based butter makes the pie dairy-free while maintaining its richness and creamy consistency.
- → How should I bake the pie for the best results?
Bake initially at 400°F for 30 minutes, then reduce to 375°F for another 20 minutes, allowing the filling to set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- → Is it necessary to stir the filling once poured?
No stirring is required; pouring the water over the dry mix without stirring ensures the proper texture as it bakes.
- → How can I add extra flavor to the pie?
Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients before baking adds warm, aromatic notes to the pie.
- → When is the pie best served?
For optimal texture and flavor, chill the pie for at least 2 hours after baking; it can be served chilled or at room temperature.