Apple Butter Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, you’ve found it in this Apple Butter Pie. This delightful pie combines the comforting flavors of apple butter with a creamy custard filling, all nestled in a flaky, homemade crust. It’s perfect for family gatherings, cozy fall evenings, or even just a sweet treat after a busy weeknight dinner. There’s something so special about baking this pie—it fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma and brings everyone together around the table.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make and how it pleases both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s such a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed all year round!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll find that making this pie is a breeze.
• Family-friendly: Everyone will love the sweet and spiced flavor combination—perfect for little taste testers!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can whip up this pie in advance and let it chill until you’re ready to serve.
• Deliciously unique: Apple butter gives this pie its distinct flavor, setting it apart from more traditional desserts.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a cozy weekend at home, this pie fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that this Apple Butter Pie uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Let’s gather what you need:

For the Crust

• 3¼ cups all-purpose flour (390g)
• 1 cup + 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (cold 311g)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ⅔ cup water ice (cold 5.3oz)

For the Filling

• 1½ cups apple butter (482g plus a bit extra for topping)
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• ¼ cup dark brown sugar (50g)
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk (1 can)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (240ml)
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (15g)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add some nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch and flavor.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for added warmth.
• Use different fruit butters: Pear butter or pumpkin butter can create deliciously unique flavors.
• Top with whipped cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream makes every slice even more indulgent!

How to Make Apple Butter Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by cutting your cold butter into ½” cubes and placing them in the freezer for about 15 minutes. This keeps the butter firm, which results in a flakier crust. While waiting, fill a bowl with ice water—this will help keep everything nice and cold as you prepare.

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a food processor, add the flour and salt, pulsing once to combine. Next, add those chilled butter cubes and pulse until they resemble pea-sized pieces mixed into the flour—a texture reminiscent of wet sand is what we’re aiming for! Cold ingredients are key; they prevent the crust from becoming tough.

Step 3: Form the Dough

Now measure out ⅔ cup of your ice-cold water—remember to remove any ice cubes! Drizzle this through the chute while pulsing until you see shaggy crumbles forming. If needed, add just a tablespoon more water if it’s too dry. The dough should hold together when pressed without feeling wet.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Once you’ve formed your dough, divide it into two pieces and wrap each in plastic wrap. Flatten them into discs and pop them in the fridge for about 1-2 hours. This resting time allows gluten to relax—making rolling out much easier later!

Step 5: Roll Out Your Dough

After chilling, take one disc out of the fridge and let it sit for about 15 minutes before rolling; this helps prevent cracks. Lightly flour your surface and rolling pin as you roll it out to about ⅛” thick—aiming for at least two inches larger than your pie dish.

Step 6: Transfer and Trim

Carefully transfer your rolled-out dough into your pie dish ensuring it fits snugly against the bottom and sides. Trim any excess with kitchen shears so it’s about an inch wider than your dish edge.

Step 7: Crimp and Par Bake

Fold the edges under to create a thicker rim that meets at the edge of the dish then crimp as desired. To par-bake: freeze your crust for 15 minutes before docking with a fork all over; then line with parchment paper filled with weights. Bake at 375℉/190℃ for about 20 minutes total—first with weights then without—until lightly golden.

And there you have it! You’ve set yourself up beautifully for an amazing Apple Butter Pie experience! Stay tuned as we move on to creating that delicious filling next!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Butter Pie

Making a perfect apple butter pie is all about the little details that can elevate your dessert from good to unforgettable. Here are some pro tips to ensure your pie turns out beautifully!

• Use cold ingredients: Starting with cold butter and water helps create a flaky crust. Warm ingredients can lead to a tough texture, so keep everything chilled until you’re ready to bake.
• Don’t overwork the dough: When mixing your pie crust, stop as soon as the dough starts to come together. Overworking can develop gluten, resulting in a dense crust instead of a light and flaky one.
• Let the filling cool slightly: After preparing your filling, allow it to cool for about 10-15 minutes before pouring it into the crust. This prevents an overly hot filling from shrinking the crust or causing it to become soggy.
• Check for doneness: Your pie is done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. This ensures the custard will finish baking while cooling and not become rubbery.
• Cool before slicing: Allow your pie to cool completely at room temperature before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes for cleaner slices, ensuring everyone gets a beautiful piece.

How to Serve Apple Butter Pie

Serving apple butter pie is as delightful as making it! With its creamy texture and wonderful flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion. Here are some ideas on how to present this beautiful dessert.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the rich filling.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon on top enhances the warm spices of the pie, giving it an inviting aroma.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over each slice brings an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy richness complements the spiced flavors of apple butter pie perfectly, creating a classic dessert pairing.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the pie.
• Cheese platter: Offering cheeses such as sharp cheddar or brie provides a savory contrast that enhances your dessert experience.
• Coffee or tea: A warm beverage like spiced chai tea or rich coffee pairs beautifully with sweet desserts, making for an enjoyable end to any meal.

Enjoy sharing your homemade apple butter pie with family and friends—it’s bound to become a favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Butter Pie is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade dessert with minimal fuss when you’re ready to serve. You can easily prepare it in advance, store leftovers, or even freeze portions for later enjoyment!

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover pie in the refrigerator.
• Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness.
• It should be consumed within 3-4 days for optimal flavor.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then again in aluminum foil.
• Label with the date so you know when it was made.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃).
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up as you make this delightful Apple Butter Pie!

Can I use store-bought crust instead of homemade for Apple Butter Pie?

Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust can save time and still yield a delicious pie. Just follow the baking instructions on the package before adding your filling.

How does this Apple Butter Pie compare to pumpkin pie?

While both have a creamy custard texture, Apple Butter Pie offers a unique flavor profile reminiscent of sweet brown sugar apples, making it a wonderful alternative to traditional pumpkin pie.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the entire Apple Butter Pie a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve.

What is apple butter, and can I make my own?

Apple butter is a thick spread made from slow-cooked apples, sugar, and spices. You can certainly make your own at home by cooking down apples into a smooth, spiced puree!

Is there an alternative to heavy cream for topping?

Yes! You can use coconut cream or whipped coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative if you’d like to keep it lighter or accommodate dietary preferences.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this delightful Apple Butter Pie! It’s more than just a dessert; it’s an experience filled with warmth and comfort that will surely bring smiles around your table. Enjoy making this pie, sharing it with loved ones, and savoring each bite. Happy baking!