Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Apple Butter Pie is an easy-to-make dessert that brings the flavors of autumn into a delicious, creamy pie. It’s a twist on traditional apple pie, replacing fresh apples with apple butter to create a smooth filling that’s bursting with flavor. The spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves provide a warm and cozy taste, making this pie ideal for fall celebrations. Plus, it’s a simple recipe that’s easy to prepare, yet impressive enough to serve at holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
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1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
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1 cup apple butter
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2 eggs
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup brown sugar
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1/4 cup all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon cinnamon
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1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
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1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Set aside.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the apple butter, eggs, heavy cream, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
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Pour the apple butter filling into the prepared pie crust.
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Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. The center should be slightly firm to the touch.
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Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 8
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Cook time: 45-50 minutes
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Total time: 55-60 minutes
Variations
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Add a streusel topping: For a little crunch, sprinkle a simple streusel topping made with butter, brown sugar, and flour over the pie before baking.
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Use homemade apple butter: If you have time, make your own apple butter to bring even more flavor to the pie.
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Crisp apples: For a more traditional apple pie texture, you can fold in some finely chopped apples for a bit of bite in each slice.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftover Apple Butter Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
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Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and warm them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or place in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes until warmed through.
FAQs
1. Can I use a store-bought pie crust for this recipe?
Yes, using a store-bought pie crust is a convenient option if you’re short on time. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the packaging for baking.
2. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this pie a day in advance. Simply let it cool completely, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
3. Can I freeze Apple Butter Pie?
Yes, you can freeze the pie before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the pie and freeze it. Then, bake it from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
4. Can I substitute the heavy cream in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though the texture may be slightly different.
5. What is apple butter, and where can I find it?
Apple butter is a thick, spiced spread made from apples, sugar, and spices, and it’s usually found in the jam or preserves section of most grocery stores.
6. Can I use fresh apples instead of apple butter?
While fresh apples are a great ingredient in many pies, this recipe relies on the smooth texture and rich flavor of apple butter for the filling. Fresh apples won’t give you the same creamy texture, but you can use them if preferred, adjusting the recipe accordingly.
7. How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the center is set and no longer jiggly. It should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch.
8. Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and use a gluten-free pie crust for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
9. How can I enhance the flavor of the apple butter pie?
You can add a little extra vanilla extract, or even a pinch of allspice or cardamom, to enhance the flavor profile.
10. Can I serve this pie warm?
Yes, this pie can be served warm, though it’s typically enjoyed chilled. If you want to serve it warm, simply reheat the slices in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
Apple Butter Pie is a simple yet delightful dessert that brings the cozy flavors of fall to life. Its smooth, spiced filling and buttery crust make it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you make it ahead of time or serve it fresh from the oven, this pie is sure to become a beloved addition to your dessert rotation.
Apple Butter Pie
Apple Butter Pie is a deliciously spiced dessert that combines the rich, smooth texture of apple butter with a traditional pie filling. Perfect for fall or any time you’re craving a comforting, flavorful treat. The subtle sweetness and aromatic spices make this pie a must-try for apple lovers and pie enthusiasts alike.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups apple butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade)
Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, apple butter, heavy cream, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the pie is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
- Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- If using a homemade pie crust, make sure to blind bake it for about 10 minutes before filling.
- Adjust the spices based on your preference; feel free to add a little extra cinnamon or nutmeg.
- The pie can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
