Depression Era Water Pie

Imagine a time when creativity in the kitchen was not just a virtue but a necessity. During the Great Depression, resourcefulness led to culinary innovations that still fascinate us today. One such creation is the Water Pie—a dessert that transforms humble ingredients into a sweet and creamy delicacy. With just a few pantry staples, this pie offers a taste of nostalgia and simplicity.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Water Pie is not only a nod to the past but a testament to the ingenuity of home cooks. You’ll love how it uses minimal ingredients while still delivering a rich and buttery flavor. The pie is perfect for those moments when you want to whip up something indulgent without needing a trip to the grocery store.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9-inch deep dish pie pan
• Baking sheet
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Aluminum foil

Ingredients

• 1 deep dish 9-inch pie crust, unbaked
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 5 tablespoons butter, sliced

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Place the unbaked pie crust on a baking sheet and pour 1 1/2 cups of water directly into the crust.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the water in the pie crust. Avoid stirring.
4. Drizzle the vanilla extract over the top, then evenly distribute the slices of butter across the surface.
5. Bake the pie for 30 minutes. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 375°F and continue baking for another 30 minutes. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil.
6. The pie will appear watery when you take it out of the oven, but it will set as it cools. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the pie crust is deep enough to hold the water and other ingredients without overflowing.
• Don’t stir the dry ingredients once sprinkled; this helps them form a delicious layer as the pie bakes.
• Let the pie cool completely before refrigerating to ensure it sets properly.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour mixture for a hint of spice. You can also try using brown sugar in place of white sugar for a deeper flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While this pie is a delightful treat, keep in mind that it is rich in calories due to the sugar and butter content. Moderation is key!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a store-bought pie crust? Yes, a store-bought crust works perfectly and saves time.

What if my pie is still watery after cooling? Make sure it has chilled adequately in the refrigerator. It should firm up as it cools.

Can I add fruit or nuts? While traditional Water Pie is simple, feel free to experiment with toppings like berries or chopped nuts once the pie has set.

Conclusion

This Depression Era Water Pie is a delicious reminder of the past, showcasing how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. We invite you to try this recipe and let us know your thoughts. Share your experiences and any creative twists you may have added. Happy baking!