If you’re craving a dessert that wraps you in the warm, cozy flavors of autumn, this Apple Butter Pie Recipe is your new best friend. Bursting with rich spices and the deep, luscious taste of apple butter, this pie offers a silky custard filling nestled in a tender, flaky crust, creating an irresistible harmony of textures and flavors. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, this Apple Butter Pie Recipe will quickly become a cherished classic, guaranteed to impress and comfort in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started is easier than you might think! Each ingredient in this Apple Butter Pie Recipe plays a vital role, from the flaky crust that cradles the filling to the aromatic spices that give the pie its signature warmth and depth.

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender, flaky pie crust that holds everything together perfectly.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the crust by balancing the richness of the butter.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed: Key to creating that flaky pie crust everyone loves; cold butter creates lovely pockets of texture.
3–5 tablespoons ice water: Just enough to bring the dough together without making it tough.
1 cup apple butter: The star ingredient for a deeply spiced and sweet filling that tastes like fall in a slice.
3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds brightness and a touch of sweetness to complement the apple butter.
1/4 cup packed brown sugar: Introduces a rich molasses note that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
3 large eggs: Acts as a binder and adds richness for a smooth custard texture.
1 cup heavy cream: Delivers creaminess that softens the spices and balances the sweetness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warm, floral notes that enhance the overall flavor profile.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A classic spice that pairs perfectly with apples and adds warmth.
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Provides a subtle nutty depth to the spice blend.
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Brings a bold, aromatic punch without overpowering the pie.
Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and spices in the filling, making every bite pop.

How to Make Apple Butter Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by mixing the flour and salt in a medium bowl to create the dry base for your crust. Cut in the chilled, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Slowly add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, just until the dough comes together. Shape it into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial; it helps relax the gluten and keeps the butter firm, ensuring a flaky, tender crust.

Step 2: Roll and Fit the Crust

Once your dough is chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 12 inches in diameter, large enough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Carefully transfer the dough to the dish, gently pressing it in to fit snugly without stretching. Trim any excess and crimp the edges for that classic pie look. If you prefer, you can use a store-bought crust to save time—just make sure it’s thawed and ready to go.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C). Proper oven temperature is key for a pie that bakes evenly, with a golden crust and set filling.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, whisk together the apple butter, both sugars, eggs, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and the warm spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves—along with a pinch of salt. The mixture should be smooth and slightly thick, ready to pour into your crust. This filling is what transforms this into an unforgettable Apple Butter Pie Recipe, where every ingredient complements the others beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the filling into your prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the pie on the middle rack of your oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, checking occasionally. If the crust edges start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning. You’ll know the pie is done when the center is set but still slightly jiggly—like a delicate custard.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Allow your pie to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This resting period lets the filling firm up for clean slices and maximizes flavor. Serve it as is or with a generous scoop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

How to Serve Apple Butter Pie Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon elevate your Apple Butter Pie Recipe to a showstopper. You can also add a few thin apple slices dusted with cinnamon on top to echo the flavors inside and add a pretty touch.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs wonderfully with warm beverages like spiced chai, hot apple cider, or a cozy cup of coffee. For a heartier dessert option, serve alongside caramel sauce or a scoop of creamy vanilla or cinnamon ice cream to complement the spice-laden filling.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Apple Butter Pie Recipe to the next level by serving mini individual pies or tartlets, perfect for parties. You can also create a deconstructed version by layering the filling over baked shortcrust pastry in ramekins and topping with a crumble or streusel. Either way, presentation will impress your guests as much as the flavor!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, wrap your leftover Apple Butter Pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to four days, allowing you to enjoy delicious slices without any rush.

Freezing

If you want to save the pie for longer, freeze it uncovered for a few hours until solid, then wrap it tightly with plastic and foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen Apple Butter Pie Recipe slices can last up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

Reheat pie slices gently in a low oven (about 300°F/150°C) for 10 to 15 minutes to revive that fresh-baked warmth and flakiness. Avoid microwaving, which can make the crust soggy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pie crust for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using a store-bought crust is a smart shortcut that saves time without compromising on taste. Just be sure to thaw it fully if frozen and follow the instructions for fitting it into your pie dish before adding the filling.

What type of apple butter is best for this pie?

Look for a high-quality apple butter that is smooth and richly spiced without being overly sweet. Homemade or artisanal apple butters often work best because they bring a deep, natural apple flavor that shines in the pie.

Can I make this Apple Butter Pie Recipe vegan?

While the classic recipe includes eggs and heavy cream, you can experiment with vegan substitutes like flax eggs and coconut cream. Keep in mind the texture may vary a bit, but the flavors can still be incredible.

How do I know when the pie is done baking?

The filling should be mostly set but still have a slight jiggle in the center, similar to a custard. The crust edges should be golden brown. If needed, cover the edges with foil halfway through baking to prevent over-browning.

Can I add nuts or other toppings to the pie?

Feel free to sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top before baking for added crunch and flavor. A streusel topping can also be a delicious twist, though the classic Apple Butter Pie Recipe shines beautifully on its own.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Butter Pie Recipe is one of those comforting, unforgettable desserts that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. With simple ingredients that come together to create rich, spiced goodness and a tender crust, it’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring all to yourself. Don’t wait for the perfect occasion — bake this pie soon and bring a little extra joy to your table.

Apple Butter Pie Recipe

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4.2 from 47 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

This Apple Butter Pie is a rich and spiced dessert featuring a buttery homemade crust filled with a creamy apple butter custard. With warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this pie is a perfect treat for fall or any cozy occasion, delivering a luscious and smooth texture that pairs beautifully with whipped cream or ice cream.

Ingredients

Scale

Pie Crust

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
3–5 tablespoons ice water
Or substitute with a store-bought pie crust for convenience

Filling

1 cup apple butter
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
3 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Pinch of salt

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Instructions

Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Cut in the chilled, cubed unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add Ice Water: Gradually add 3 to 5 tablespoons of ice water, stirring until the dough just comes together. Avoid overworking the dough to keep it tender.
Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up and make it easier to roll out.
Roll Out and Fit Crust: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer it carefully to the dish, trim any excess dough, and crimp the edges decoratively.
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the pie.
Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the apple butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, heavy cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
Assemble the Pie: Pour the smooth apple butter filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly and smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until the center is set and does not jiggle. To prevent the crust edges from over-browning, cover them with foil halfway through baking if needed.
Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Serve slices with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert experience.