Apple Butter Pie

Apple butter pie is a delightful treat that brings the warmth of fall to your table. This creamy custard pie, made with rich apple butter and sweetened condensed milk, offers a unique flavor profile that combines the sweetness of brown sugar apples with a comforting texture reminiscent of pumpkin pie. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners, this Apple Butter Pie is sure to impress your guests and become a cherished favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, this pie can be whipped up without hassle.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of apple butter and dark brown sugar creates a deeply satisfying taste that lingers on the palate.
• Versatile Dessert: Whether for Thanksgiving, a casual get-together, or simply as a sweet treat, this pie fits any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the crust in advance or even make the entire pie ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.
• Appealing Texture: The creamy filling paired with a flaky crust makes every bite of this Apple Butter Pie a textural delight.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Apple Butter Pie, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your process and enhance your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Rolling pin
• Pie dish
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Speeds up the process of making pie dough by quickly mixing flour and butter to achieve the right texture.
• Rolling pin: Ensures an even thickness for your crust, preventing any uneven baking.
• Pie dish: A sturdy dish helps maintain the shape of your pie while it bakes and allows for easy serving.

Ingredients

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 the 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

How to Make Apple Butter Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Cut the cold butter into ½” cubes and place in the freezer for about 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. In a bowl, add about a cup of water and a handful of ice cubes and set aside.
3. Add the flour and salt to a food processor and pulse once to incorporate the salt.
4. Disperse the cold butter cubes around the flour in the food processor, then pulse until pea-sized pieces form.

Step 2: Forming Dough

1. Measure out ⅔ cup ice-cold water (sans ice cubes) and drizzle it through while pulsing until shaggy crumbles start to form.
2. Remove the dough, separate into two even pieces, wrap each in plastic wrap, flatten into discs, and refrigerate for 1-2 hours until firm.

Step 3: Roll Out Dough

1. After chilling, remove from fridge and let sit for about 15 minutes.
2. Lightly flour your rolling pin and surface; roll out one disc until it’s about ⅛” thick.
3. Carefully transfer rolled dough into pie dish; trim edges so they’re even.

Step 4: Par Bake Crust

1. Freeze crust for 15 minutes; dock with a fork all over.
2. Line with parchment paper and fill with weights or dried beans.
3. Bake in preheated oven at 375℉/190℃ for 15 minutes; remove weights and bake another 5 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine apple butter, eggs, dark brown sugar, flour, vanilla paste/extract, sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, and additional vanilla paste/extract.
2. Whisk together until smooth.

Step 6: Assemble Pie

1. Pour filling into par-baked crust.
2. Bake at 350℉/175℃ for about 60 minutes until set; let cool completely before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Apple Butter Pie!

How to Serve Apple Butter Pie

Apple butter pie is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a simple slice or a more elaborate presentation, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

A La Mode

• Serve warm slices of apple butter pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a classic and creamy combination.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds an airy texture. Consider infusing it with a hint of cinnamon for extra flavor.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Top with slices of fresh apples or pears for a refreshing contrast. A sprinkle of cinnamon can elevate this simple garnish.

Drizzled Caramel Sauce

• For those with a sweet tooth, drizzle caramel sauce over each slice. This adds a rich sweetness that complements the pie beautifully.

Crushed Nuts

• Sprinkle crushed walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and nuttiness. Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor and aroma.

Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• Lightly dust powdered sugar over the pie before serving. This gives it an elegant touch and adds a hint of sweetness without being overpowering.

How to Perfect Apple Butter Pie

Creating the perfect apple butter pie requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out wonderfully every time.

• Chill the Dough: Ensure your pie crust is well chilled before rolling it out. This prevents shrinking during baking and results in a flaky texture.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality apple butter; its flavor is key to the pie’s success. Homemade or artisanal brands often provide the best taste.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense filling rather than a light and airy custard.
• Test for Doneness: The filling should be slightly jiggly in the center when done baking. It will firm up as it cools, so avoid overbaking.
• Serve Warm: While delicious at room temperature, serving apple butter pie warm enhances its flavors and makes it more comforting.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for unique flavor variations that suit your palate.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Butter Pie

Pairing side dishes with apple butter pie can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this dessert beautifully.

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
   Rich and buttery mashed potatoes pair well with savory dishes served before dessert, balancing flavors nicely.
2. Savory Roasted Vegetables
   Seasoned roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes provide a hearty contrast to the sweetness of the pie.
3. Crunchy Salad
   A fresh salad with mixed greens, apples, nuts, and vinaigrette adds brightness and crunch that contrasts with the creamy texture of the pie.
4. Cheese Platter
   Offer an assortment of cheeses such as sharp cheddar or brie alongside crackers for a varied palate experience before diving into dessert.
5. Spiced Chai Latte
   A warm beverage like chai latte complements the spices in apple butter pie beautifully while providing warmth on cooler days.
6. Pumpkin Soup
   Serve a small bowl of pumpkin soup as an appetizer; its earthy flavors transition well into sweet desserts like apple butter pie.
7. Caramelized Pears
   Sautéed pears in brown sugar provide an elegant side that echoes the flavors found in the pie itself while adding freshness.
8. Vanilla Yogurt Dip
   A light yogurt dip flavored with vanilla pairs nicely with fresh fruit served on the side, creating a refreshing finish alongside dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an apple butter pie can be delightful, but several common mistakes can hinder your success.

• Ignoring crust temperature: Using warm or room-temperature butter can lead to a tough crust. Ensure your butter is cold for a flaky texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can develop gluten, resulting in a dense crust. Mix until just combined for the best results.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can cause it to shrink during baking. Always refrigerate your dough to maintain its shape.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can throw off the balance of flavors and texture. Use a kitchen scale for precision.
• Underbaking or overbaking: Each oven is different, so keep an eye on baking times. Make sure to check for doneness based on visual cues and not just timing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the pie is completely cool before sealing.

Freezing Apple Butter Pie

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Apple Butter Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals on medium power until warm. Be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making apple butter pie.

What is apple butter pie?

Apple butter pie is a creamy custard dessert that combines apple butter with sweetened condensed milk and eggs, baked in a flaky crust.

Can I use homemade apple butter?

Yes! Homemade apple butter adds a personal touch and unique flavor to your apple butter pie.

How do I customize my apple butter pie?

Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or swap out some of the apple butter for pumpkin puree for a twist on flavor.

Is apple butter pie suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely! This dessert is perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply as a comforting treat at home.

How long does it take to make apple butter pie?

The total time from preparation to baking is approximately 270 minutes, which includes chilling and cooling time.

Final Thoughts

Apple butter pie is a delightful dessert that blends creamy custard with the rich flavors of apple butter. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various spices or even mix in other fruits. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its sweet, comforting taste!