Apple Butter Pie

Apple butter pie is a delicious, creamy custard pie made with flavorful apple butter and sweetened condensed milk, all nestled into a flaky pie crust. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy fall gathering or a holiday feast. This unique dessert combines the comforting flavors of apple and brown sugar, bringing warmth to your table. Enjoy the delightful texture reminiscent of pumpkin pie, but with a distinctive twist that will leave your guests asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create this stunning dessert.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of apple butter and sweetened condensed milk creates a deeply satisfying flavor profile.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a simple family dinner, this pie fits right in.
• Versatile Topping Options: Add whipped cream or extra apple butter on top for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the filling and crust in advance to save time on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To make this scrumptious apple butter pie, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your baking experience is smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Speeds up the process of making the crust by efficiently mixing flour and butter.
• Pie dish: Provides the perfect form for your pie, ensuring even baking and presentation.

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Ingredients

To craft this delightful apple butter pie, gather the following 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)

For Whipped Topping

• 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 it in the freezer for about 15 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.
2. In a bowl, add about a cup of water and ice cubes; set aside.
3. Add flour and salt to a food processor; pulse once to incorporate salt.
4. Disperse cold butter cubes around the flour in the food processor; pulse until butter reaches pea-sized pieces resembling wet sand.

Step 2: Forming the Dough

1. Measure out ⅔ cup ice-cold water without ice cubes; drizzle it through the chute while pulsing (leave one tablespoon remaining).
2. Continue pulsing until dough forms shaggy crumbles; add last tablespoon of water only if needed.
3. Remove dough, divide into two pieces, wrap separately 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; let sit for about 15 minutes to soften slightly.
2. Lightly flour rolling pin and surface; roll out dough until about ⅛” thick and at least 2 inches wider than your pie dish.
3. Carefully transfer dough to pie dish, pressing into place on bottom and sides; trim edges with kitchen shears.

Step 4: Par Bake Crust

1. Freeze crust for 15 minutes; dock with a fork all over.
2. Add parchment paper inside crust filled with pie weights or dried rice/beans.
3. Bake in preheated oven at 375℉/190℃ for 15 minutes; remove weights and parchment, bake another 5 minutes.
4. Transfer to wire rack while preparing filling.

Continue with additional steps as needed to complete your apple butter pie!

How to Serve Apple Butter Pie

Apple butter pie is a delightful dessert that pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. Serving it with the right sides can enhance its flavors and create a memorable experience. Here are some suggestions to elevate your apple butter pie.

With Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream complements the creamy texture of the pie, adding a sweet contrast.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• The richness of vanilla ice cream balances the warm spices in the pie, making each bite indulgent.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.

Fresh Fruit Salad

• A refreshing fruit salad can provide a light, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the pie, making it a perfect palate cleanser.

Crushed Nuts Topping

• Sprinkling crushed walnuts or pecans on top adds crunch and enhances the nutty notes in the apple butter.

How to Perfect Apple Butter Pie

Perfecting your apple butter pie can take your baking to new heights. Here are some essential tips for achieving that ideal custard-like texture and flavor.

• Use Cold Ingredients: Ensure your butter and water are cold when making the crust. This helps create a flaky texture.
• Don’t Overmix: When preparing the dough, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough crusts.
• Chill Your Dough: Allowing your dough to chill not only makes it easier to roll out but also helps prevent shrinkage during baking.
• Par Bake Properly: Par baking the crust ensures it stays crisp and doesn’t become soggy once filled with the custard.
• Check for Doneness: The filling should be set but slightly jiggly in the center when it’s done. It will continue to firm up as it cools.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Butter Pie

Pairing side dishes with your apple butter pie can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this dessert wonderfully.

1. Spiced Chai Latte
   A warm spiced chai latte provides aromatic flavors that blend well with the apple butter’s spices.

2. Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
   These cookies echo the flavors in the pie and make for a delightful snack alongside dessert.

3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Their natural sweetness harmonizes with apple butter pie, creating a comforting fall-inspired meal.

4. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
   The smooth texture of creamy mashed potatoes provides a savory contrast to the sweet pie.

5. Carrot Ginger Soup
   A warming bowl of carrot ginger soup offers a light and zesty accompaniment that balances out richer flavors.

6. Herbed Green Salad
   A fresh salad with mixed greens and herbs adds brightness and freshness, making for an ideal counterpoint to dessert.

7. Cheese Board
   A variety of cheeses can provide savory notes that play off the sweetness of apple butter, creating a balanced tasting experience.

8. Pumpkin Muffins
   These muffins share similar spices with apple butter pie, making them an excellent choice for breakfast or brunch after dessert!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an apple butter pie can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome.

• Incorrect Butter Temperature: Using butter that is not cold enough can lead to a tough crust. Ensure your butter is chilled before cutting it into cubes.
• Not Enough Chilling Time: Skipping the chilling step for the dough can result in cracking. Always refrigerate your dough for at least 1-2 hours.
• Overmixing the Dough: Overworking the dough will make it tough rather than flaky. Mix until just combined and avoid forming a ball in the processor.
• Ignoring Par Baking: Failing to par bake your crust could lead to a soggy bottom. Always freeze and dock your crust before baking to ensure it holds its shape.
• Inaccurate Measurements: Not measuring ingredients accurately can ruin the consistency of the filling or crust. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements when possible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor and texture.

Freezing Apple Butter Pie

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Apple Butter Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Cover slices with a lid in a skillet over low heat, warming gently until heated 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 dessert made with apple butter, sweetened condensed milk, and eggs, all baked into a flaky pie crust.

Can I use store-bought pie crust?

Yes, using a store-bought pie crust can save time. Just make sure it’s thawed properly before use.

How do I know when my pie is done?

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

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives such as coconut cream and almond milk for a dairy-free version of apple butter pie.

What should I serve with Apple Butter Pie?

Consider pairing it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added richness and flavor contrast.

Final Thoughts

Apple butter pie is an enticing dessert perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it versatile enough for gatherings or quiet evenings at home. Feel free to customize it by adding spices or topping variations to suit your taste!