Born out of hard times, this Depression Era Water Pie proves that even the simplest ingredients can create something truly special. Made with water, sugar, and a touch of flour, this old-fashioned dessert transforms into a velvety, custard-like pie that’s sweet, smooth, and comforting. It’s the perfect reminder that creativity in the kitchen can turn almost nothing into something wonderful.
Depression Era Water Pie
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 |
How To Make Depression Era Water Pie:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare (10 minutes): Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). Place your unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan and neatly crimp the edges. Set it aside while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Mix the Filling (5 minutes): Pour 1½ cups of water directly into the unbaked crust. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt until evenly mixed. Gently sprinkle this mixture over the water inside the crust—don’t stir.
Step 3: Add Butter and Vanilla (2 minutes): Cut the butter into small cubes and scatter them evenly on top of the sugar mixture. Drizzle the vanilla extract across the entire surface to give it that lovely aroma.
Step 4: Bake the Pie (1 hour): Place the pie in the oven and bake for 30 minutes at 400°F (204°C). Then reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for another 30 minutes, or until the filling has set and the crust turns golden brown.
Step 5: Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling is essential for the filling to firm up perfectly. Once cooled, slice and serve this old-fashioned gem—it’s pure comfort in every bite.
Cook’s Notes:
Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
No Mess Tip: To avoid spills while baking, place the pie pan on a baking sheet before sliding it into the oven.
