Depression Era Water Pie
A simple, old-fashioned dessert born out of creativity during tough times the Depression Era Water Pie proves that even with the most basic ingredients, you can still make something sweet, comforting, and delicious. 💛
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unbaked Pie Crust (store-bought or homemade) | 1 |
| Unsalted Butter | 4 tablespoons |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup |
| All-Purpose Flour | 3 tablespoons |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Water | 1 1/2 cups |
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges. - Prepare the filling:
Pour 1 1/2 cups of water directly into the unbaked crust.
In a small bowl, mix together sugar, flour, and salt until well combined. - Add the dry mixture:
Sprinkle the sugar-flour mixture evenly over the water in the crust. Do not stir — this is what creates the magic texture! - Add butter and vanilla:
Drizzle vanilla extract over the top, then slice the butter into thin pats and place them evenly across the surface. - Bake:
Carefully place the pie in the oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes.
Then, reduce heat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for another 30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly. - Cool completely:
The pie will look a bit wobbly when it comes out — that’s normal! Allow it to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to let it set. - Serve:
Slice and enjoy this smooth, custard-like pie that tastes lightly buttery and sweet — proof that simple ingredients can make something truly special. ✨
Tips:
- Use cold water for best results — it helps the layers set properly.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries for a modern touch.
