t (store-bought or homemade)
For the Simple Filling:
1 ½ cups cold water (360 ml)
1 cup granulated sugar (200 g)
3 tbsp all-purpose flour (24 g)
¼ tsp salt
4 tbsp unsalted butter, cold (½ stick / 56 g), cubed
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Optional Upgrades:
Pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg
Grated lemon zest
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). Place pie crust in dish and flute edges. Set pie pan on a baking sheet for easy transfer.
2. Pour Water Into Crust
Pour cold water directly into the unbaked crust. Yes—straight in!
3. Add Dry Ingredients
Whisk together sugar, flour, and salt. Sprinkle evenly over the water without stirring.
4. Top with Butter & Vanilla
Distribute cold butter cubes evenly on top and drizzle with vanilla extract. Do not mix.
5. Bake in Two Stages
Bake at 400°F for 30 minutes.
Reduce to 375°F (190°C) and bake another 30–35 minutes, until the filling is set and slightly jiggly in the center.
6. Cool Completely
Cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours (3–4 is better). The filling will firm as it cools.
7. Serve & Enjoy
Slice with a sharp knife and serve plain or with a dollop of whipped cream.
