Water Pie Recipe: A Refreshing Treat for Any Occasion
Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that's perfect for a hot summer day? Look no further than the water pie, a refreshing treat that's sure to please everyone. This recipe is simple to follow, even for beginner bakers, and requires minimal ingredients. Let's dive into the details!
What is a Water Pie?
A water pie, also known as a sweet water pie or sweet milk pie, is a type of custard pie that features a creamy, smooth filling made with water (or milk), sugar, eggs, and flavorings. Unlike other pies that rely on a heavy amount of fat, the water pie boasts a lighter, airier texture, making it a refreshing option for warmer months. Its simple elegance belies a surprisingly satisfying taste, offering a subtle sweetness that's both comforting and delightful.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe provides a basic framework; feel free to experiment with different flavor combinations to create your own signature water pie.
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup ice water
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups water (or milk, for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Lemon zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, or other flavorings to your liking.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Making the Crust:
- Combine dry ingredients: Whisk together flour and salt in a large bowl.
- Cut in butter: Add the chilled butter cubes and use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add water: Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing.
- Chill the dough: Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle.
- Transfer to pie plate: Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate. Trim and crimp the edges.
Making the Filling:
- Whisk dry ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Add water and heat: Gradually whisk in water (or milk) until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens.
- Temper the eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs lightly. Gradually whisk a small amount of the hot cornstarch mixture into the eggs to temper them.
- Combine mixtures: Pour the tempered egg mixture into the saucepan with the remaining cornstarch mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the filling is smooth and thickened.
- Stir in flavorings: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and any other desired flavorings.
- Pour into crust: Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Cool: Let the pie cool completely before serving. This allows the filling to set properly and prevents a runny texture.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use milk instead of water.
- Experiment with different flavor combinations. Lemon zest and cinnamon are particularly delicious additions.
- Add a layer of fruit, such as berries or sliced peaches, before pouring in the filling.
- Top the pie with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream before serving.
Conclusion:
The water pie is a versatile and delightful dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity, combined with its refreshing taste, makes it a crowd-pleaser. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a cool and delicious treat! Remember to share your creations and tag us – we'd love to see your water pie masterpieces!
