Apple Butter Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, then you have to try making Apple Butter Pie! This delightful pie combines the rich flavor of apple butter with creamy custard, all tucked into a flaky crust that’s simply irresistible. It’s perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or even just when you want to treat yourself after a long day.

What truly makes this Apple Butter Pie special is its unique flavor profile—imagine the comforting taste of brown sugar apples in a smooth, velvety filling. Whether you’re celebrating fall festivities or just indulging your sweet tooth, this pie is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet, familiar flavors—it’s a great way to introduce new tastes!
• Make ahead convenience: You can prepare the pie crust and filling ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for busy occasions.
• Deliciously unique: This pie stands out from traditional desserts with its warm spices and rich apple butter flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients will be half the fun! They are simple and wholesome, making this recipe approachable and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your own Apple Butter Pie:

For the Crust

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

For the Topping

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (240ml)
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (15g)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a lovely crunch and depth of flavor.
• Spice it up: Consider adding nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick that pairs beautifully with apples.
• Swap the sweetener: For a lighter option, try using maple syrup instead of dark brown sugar.
• Top with fruit: Fresh slices of apples or pears on top give it an extra pop of color and freshness!

How to Make Apple Butter Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Begin by cutting the cold butter into ½-inch cubes and placing them in the freezer while you gather your other ingredients. Chilling the butter ensures that your crust will be flaky and tender.

Next, mix together the flour and salt in your food processor before adding the cold butter cubes. Pulse until the mixture resembles wet sand with small pea-sized pieces of butter. This step is crucial because it creates that desirable flaky texture.

Step 2: Form the Dough

Measure out ⅔ cup of ice-cold water and drizzle it into the flour mixture while pulsing. Be careful not to overmix; we want shaggy crumbles here! If it looks too dry, add just a bit more water until it holds together when pressed between your fingers.

Once combined, separate the dough into two equal pieces, wrap them in plastic wrap, and flatten them into discs. Chill them in the fridge for about one to two hours. This resting period allows gluten to relax, which helps prevent cracking while rolling out later.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

After chilling, remove one disc from the fridge and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Lightly flour your surface and rolling pin as you roll out the dough to about ⅛ inch thick. Aim for at least two inches wider than your pie dish so there’s enough overhang for crimping!

Carefully transfer your rolled dough into your pie dish by lifting it gently; press it down into place without stretching. Trim any excess dough so that it’s evenly about one inch wider than your dish’s edges.

Step 4: Par Bake Your Crust

To par-bake your crust—which helps ensure a crisp bottom—freeze it for fifteen minutes first. Then dock with a fork all over to prevent bubbling during baking. Cover with parchment paper filled with pie weights or dried beans before baking at 375℉/190℃ for fifteen minutes. Remove weights after fifteen minutes and bake for another five until lightly golden.

Now you’re ready to fill your crust with that luscious apple butter custard filling!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Butter Pie

Making apple butter pie is a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can ensure your pie turns out perfectly every time!

• Use cold ingredients: Keeping your butter and water cold prevents the pie crust from becoming tough. This helps maintain a flaky texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
• Don’t overwork the dough: When mixing your crust, stop when it starts to come together. Overworking can lead to a dense crust rather than the light, flaky texture we want.
• Chill your dough: Allowing the dough to chill not only makes it easier to roll out but also helps prevent shrinkage during baking.
• Pre-bake your crust: Par baking the crust ensures it won’t become soggy once you add the filling. This step creates a sturdy base for that luscious apple butter filling.
• Let it cool properly: After baking, allow your pie to cool on a wire rack before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes for cleaner slices!

How to Serve Apple Butter Pie

Serving apple butter pie can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation and enhance the overall experience.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the dense custard.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: Dusting a little ground cinnamon on top before serving enhances the warm flavors of the pie.
• Toasted nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can give a pleasant crunch and complement the sweetness of the apple butter.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm spices in apple butter pie, creating a classic dessert combo.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over each slice adds an extra layer of sweetness that complements the pie’s flavors.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a bright contrast to the richness of the pie, balancing your dessert table.
• Coffee or tea: Serving a warm beverage alongside this sweet treat offers comfort and warmth, perfect for cozy gatherings.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create not only a stunning dessert but also a memorable dining experience for everyone at your table! Enjoy making and sharing this delightful apple butter pie with family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

Apple butter pie is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful dessert with minimal fuss. You can make it ahead of time and store it for later, making it an ideal choice for busy days or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you have individual slices, consider placing them in airtight containers.

Freezing

• After baking, allow the pie to cool completely.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, label with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious apple butter pie!

Can I use homemade apple butter for the Apple Butter Pie?

Absolutely! Homemade apple butter will add a personal touch and enhance the flavor of your pie. Just ensure it’s smooth and well-spiced.

How do I know when my Apple Butter Pie is done baking?

The pie is ready when the filling is set around the edges but slightly wobbly in the center. It will continue to firm up as it cools.

Can I substitute ingredients in the Apple Butter Pie recipe?

Yes! You can use non-dairy sweetened condensed milk and coconut cream as great alternatives if you’re looking to avoid animal products.

What’s the best way to serve Apple Butter Pie?

Serve chilled or at room temperature, topped with whipped cream or additional apple butter for extra sweetness!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Apple Butter Pie brings warmth and joy to your table! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a delightful celebration of flavors perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making this recipe as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you, and don’t forget to let me know how yours turns out. Happy baking!