Water Pie Depression Dessert (Printable)

Creamy custard-like filling with crisp vanilla crust, made from simple pantry staples for a nostalgic touch.

# Ingredient list:

→ Pie

01 - 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust, store-bought or homemade
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 Guide:

01 - Set oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and allow to preheat fully.
02 - Fit the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan, shaping and crimping edges as desired.
03 - Pour 1 1/2 cups water directly into the prepared pie crust.
04 - Mix granulated sugar and all-purpose flour in a bowl until thoroughly incorporated.
05 - Sprinkle the sugar-flour mixture evenly over the surface of the water in the pie crust.
06 - Drizzle vanilla extract over the top and add a pinch of salt.
07 - Slice butter into thin pats and arrange evenly across the pie surface.
08 - Place the pie on the lower oven rack and bake for 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
09 - Lower oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for 20 minutes until crust is golden and filling has a slight jiggle in the center.
10 - Remove pie from oven, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing for optimal texture.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand
  • Easy one-bowl preparation for minimal fuss
02 -
  • This pie contains wheat (gluten) and dairy due to the crust and butter.
  • Allowing the pie to fully chill ensures the custard-like texture is firm for slicing.
03 -
  • For a crisp bottom crust, bake the pie on the lower rack.
  • Refrigerating overnight gives the richest flavor and best slice.
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