Water Pie Nostalgic Depression Era (Printable)

A creamy vanilla custard dessert from simple pantry staples with a golden crust. Comforting, sweet, and easy to make.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pie

01 - 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
02 - 1 1/2 cups water
03 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
04 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
05 - 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
06 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 - Pinch of salt

# Step-by-Step:

01 - Set oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to fully preheat.
02 - Fit the unbaked 9-inch pie crust into a pie pan, trimming and crimping edges as desired.
03 - Pour 1 1/2 cups water evenly into the prepared pie crust.
04 - Mix together 3/4 cup sugar and 3 tablespoons flour in a bowl until fully incorporated. Sprinkle mixture evenly over water in the crust.
05 - Drizzle 1 teaspoon vanilla extract atop the mixture and add a pinch of salt.
06 - Cut 4 tablespoons butter into thin slices and arrange evenly across the surface.
07 - Place the pie on the lower oven rack. Bake for 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
08 - Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 20 minutes. Filling should be set with a slight jiggle and crust golden.
09 - Remove pie from oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing to achieve a firm, creamy texture.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Simple ingredients from your pantry
  • Delightfully creamy and custard-like texture
02 -
  • For added flavor, sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg before baking
  • Vegan versions work with plant-based butter and crust
03 -
  • Allow pie to chill completely before slicing for best texture
  • Use a glass pie pan to easily check for doneness
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