“I still don’t even understand how this pie can come out so delicious with just these ingredients”
The Depression Era Water Pie is a testament to resourceful cooking during challenging times. This simple yet surprisingly delicious dessert uses minimal ingredients to create a sweet, custard-like filling within a flaky crust. It’s a comforting and nostalgic treat that proves you don’t need fancy ingredients to make a satisfying dessert.
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Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Deep dish 9-inch pie crust, unbaked | 1 |
| Water | 1 1/2 cups |
| All-purpose flour | 4 tablespoons |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons |
| Butter, sliced | 5 tablespoons |
Instructions:
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Crust: Place the unbaked pie crust on a baking sheet. Pour 1 1/2 cups of water directly into the pie crust.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
- Add Dry Ingredients to Water: Sprinkle the flour mixture evenly over the water in the pie crust. Do not stir.
- Add Flavor and Fat: Drizzle the vanilla extract over the surface of the pie. Evenly distribute the sliced butter pats over the top of the pie.
- Bake: Bake the pie for 30 minutes at 400°F.
- Continue Baking: Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for another 30 minutes. If the crust is browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil.
- Cool and Set: The pie will appear watery when removed from the oven, but it will set as it cools. Allow the pie to cool to room temperature.
- Chill: Place the cooled pie in the refrigerator to chill completely before slicing and serving.
- Serve: Enjoy your chilled Depression Era Water Pie!
