Apple Butter Pie

Apple butter pie is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of fall in every bite. This creamy custard pie, made with rich apple butter and sweetened condensed milk, is enveloped in a flaky crust that perfectly balances its sweetness. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply indulging on a cozy evening at home, Apple Butter Pie will impress your guests with its unique flavor reminiscent of sweet brown sugar apples.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple butter and dark brown sugar creates a warm, comforting taste that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is great for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it warm with whipped cream or chilled as a refreshing treat—this pie can adapt to your serving style!
• Perfect for Any Season: While ideal for fall gatherings, this pie is delicious year-round and sure to please any palate.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Apple Butter Pie, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure you achieve the perfect pie.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Rolling pin
• Pie dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Speeds up the dough-making process, ensuring even mixing for the perfect crust.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough evenly to fit your pie dish without cracks.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently while keeping your workspace organized.

Ingredients

For the Pie 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 Dough

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

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. Measure out ⅔ cup ice-cold water (sans ice cubes) and drizzle it through the chute while pulsing.
2. Continue pulsing until shaggy crumbles form; add more water if needed but do not let it form a ball.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

1. Remove dough from food processor, separate into two pieces, wrap in plastic wrap, and flatten into discs.
2. Place in the fridge for 1-2 hours until firm; one disc will be used now; freeze the other for later.

Step 4: Roll Out Dough

1. Remove from fridge and let sit for about 15 minutes to ease rolling.
2. Lightly flour your rolling pin and surface; roll out dough until it’s about ⅛” thick.

Step 5: Prepare Pie Dish

1. Transfer rolled dough to pie dish, pressing it into place on bottom and sides.
2. Trim edges so they are even and about 1” wider than dish; fold sides under crust and crimp edges.

Step 6: Par Bake Crust

1. Freeze crust for 15 minutes, dock with a fork, then line with parchment paper filled with weights or dried beans.
2. Bake in preheated oven at 375℉/190℃ for 15 minutes; remove weights and parchment, bake another 5 minutes.

Now you’re ready to fill your par-baked crust with that luscious apple butter mixture! Stay tuned for further steps on how to complete this delightful Apple Butter Pie!

How to Serve Apple Butter Pie

Serving apple butter pie can elevate any gathering. This creamy dessert is not only delicious but also versatile in how you present it. Here are some great ways to serve this delightful pie.

With Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that perfectly complements the richness of the pie.

Topped with Extra Apple Butter

• Drizzle or spread a spoonful of apple butter on top for an extra burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Accompanied by Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination that enhances the pie’s sweetness.

Garnished with Cinnamon Dust

• Lightly sprinkle ground cinnamon over the top before serving to enhance the aromatic qualities of the pie.

With Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce adds a decadent touch, making each bite even more indulgent.

How to Perfect Apple Butter Pie

Perfecting your apple butter pie can make all the difference. Follow these tips to ensure your pie turns out amazing every time.

• Chill Your Dough: Properly chilling your dough helps it maintain its shape during baking and prevents shrinking.
• Use Cold Ingredients: Make sure your butter and water are cold to create a flaky crust that holds up beautifully.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
• Pre-Bake the Crust: Par baking ensures a crisp crust that won’t become soggy from the filling.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your pie as it bakes. The filling should be set but slightly jiggly in the center when done.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Butter Pie

Pairing side dishes with apple butter pie can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their savory flavor contrasts nicely with the sweet pie, making for a balanced meal.
2. Maple-Glazed Carrots: The sweetness from maple syrup harmonizes beautifully with the flavors of apple butter.
3. Savory Sweet Potato Mash: This creamy side brings a hint of earthiness that complements the sweet notes in the pie.
4. Autumn Salad: A fresh salad with seasonal greens, nuts, and cranberries provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich dessert.
5. Spiced Pear Compote: This warm compote adds an extra layer of fruitiness that pairs well with apple butter flavors.
6. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses, nuts, and fruits creates an inviting appetizer before indulging in dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making apple butter pie can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can ruin the experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can result in a crust that shrinks during baking. Always refrigerate your dough before rolling it out.
• Overworking the dough: Kneading the dough too much can make it tough. Handle it gently and only until combined to keep it flaky.
• Ignoring room temperature eggs: Using cold eggs can affect how well they incorporate into the filling. Always use room temperature eggs for a smoother mix.
• Not pre-baking the crust: Failing to par-bake can lead to a soggy bottom. Pre-bake your crust to ensure it’s crisp and holds up against the filling.
• Using warm ingredients: Mixing warm ingredients into your pie filling can cause it to cook unevenly. Ensure all filling ingredients are at room temperature before combining.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Apple butter pie will last for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Apple Butter Pie

• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Apple Butter Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat until warm, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Apple Butter Pie?

Apple butter pie is a creamy custard dessert made primarily with apple butter, eggs, and sweetened condensed milk, offering a delightful fall flavor.

How do I ensure my pie crust is flaky?

To achieve a flaky crust, keep your butter cold and avoid overmixing the dough. Chilling the dough also helps maintain its texture.

Can I substitute ingredients in Apple Butter Pie?

Yes! You can customize this recipe by using different spices or sweeteners according to your taste preferences while keeping the main components intact.

How do I know when my pie is done baking?

The pie is done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.

Is Apple Butter Pie suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely! This pie is perfect for gatherings, holidays, or any time you want a comforting dessert that impresses guests.

Final Thoughts

Apple butter pie is not just delicious; it’s versatile too! You can easily customize it with different spices or toppings like whipped cream or caramel drizzle. Give this recipe a try and savor its unique flavor profile that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Apple Butter Pie

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x

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Description

Apple Butter Pie is a heartwarming dessert that perfectly embodies the flavors of fall. This creamy custard pie combines rich apple butter with sweetened condensed milk, creating a luscious filling enveloped in a flaky homemade crust. Ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home, this pie offers a delightful balance of sweetness and warmth reminiscent of baked apples and brown sugar. Whether served warm with whipped cream or chilled for a refreshing treat, Apple Butter Pie is sure to impress at any occasion.

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Ingredients

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• 3¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup + 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (cold)
• 1½ cups apple butter
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• ¼ cup dark brown sugar
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk

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Instructions

1. Prepare the dough by cutting cold butter into cubes and mixing with flour and salt in a food processor until pea-sized.
2. Gradually add ice-cold water until shaggy crumbles form. Chill the dough for 1-2 hours.
3. Roll out the chilled dough and press it into a pie dish, then freeze for 15 minutes before par-baking at 375°F for about 20 minutes.
4. In a bowl, mix apple butter, eggs, dark brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla until smooth. Pour into the crust.
5. Bake at 350°F for approximately 45 minutes or until set but slightly jiggly in the center.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 65 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 26g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 75mg