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Classic Creamy Depression Era Water Pie

classic creamy depression era water pie - featured image
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A nostalgic and surprisingly creamy custard pie made primarily with water, eggs, sugar, and a flaky crust. This easy homemade dessert delivers a smooth, luscious texture and comforting flavor with minimal ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 9-inch unbaked pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted (optional, for brushing on top)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Set your 9-inch pie dish aside.
  2. Prepare the pie crust: roll out if homemade and fit into pie dish, crimp edges; if store-bought, place thawed crust into dish. Prick bottom a few times with a fork.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, salt, and nutmeg until combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, lightly beat eggs. Add water and vanilla extract to eggs and mix gently.
  5. Slowly pour the wet egg mixture into the dry ingredients, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
  6. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
  7. Optional: Brush melted butter over the top of the filling for a golden finish.
  8. Bake on the middle rack for 45–50 minutes until the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center and edges are golden brown.
  9. Remove from oven and let cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours to fully set the filling.
  10. Slice and serve as is or with whipped cream or cinnamon if desired.

Notes

Use room temperature eggs for a smoother texture. Avoid over-beating eggs to prevent bubbles in the custard. If crust edges brown too quickly, shield with foil. Let the pie cool completely to allow the filling to set properly. Freshly grated nutmeg enhances flavor. Butter brushing on top is optional but recommended for a golden finish. Variations include adding cinnamon, cloves, cocoa powder, or almond extract. Gluten-free and dairy-free adaptations are possible by substituting crust and flour.

Nutrition

Keywords: water pie, depression era recipe, creamy custard pie, easy dessert, vintage pie, simple ingredients, nostalgic dessert

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/classic-creamy-depression-era-water-pie-recipe-easy-homemade-dessert-to-try-today/