This Depression-era dessert is sweet, rich, inexpensive, and absolutely irresistible.
And then theres water pie.
It sounds like a joke, but its something of a marvel.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox
And now, thanks to pandemic-inspired thriftiness, water pie has enjoyed a bit of a resurgence.
What Is Water Pie?
Finally, thin slices of butter will float on top.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox
It will need to chill for several hours to firm up, and then its ready for slicing.
Water Pie Ingredients
What Does Water Pie Taste Like?
The butter melts atop the filling without thoroughly incorporating into it.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox
This is in no way unpleasant.
But after you chill it thoroughly, the filling gels and sets.
Serve it cold, or cut slices and allow them to come to room temperature.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox
We dont recommend heating leftovers or serving the pie warm.
Pour water intoPerfect Pie Crust.
Drizzle vanilla and vinegar over the water.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox
Stir together sugar, flour, and salt in a medium bowl.
Sprinkle sugar mixture over water mixture in crust.
Float butter slices on top.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox
Bake at 400F for 30 minutes.
Shield pie crust, and reduce oven temperature to 375F.
Bake at 375F for 30 minutes.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox
Remove pie from oven (filling will be very loose and watery).
Cool pie to room temperature, about 1 hour.
Loosely cover pie and refrigerate until fully set, about 8 hours.
