Tired of complicated desserts that demand hours of prep and a mile-long ingredient list? Apple Butter Pie is here to change everything. This silky, spiced custard pie delivers all the warmth of fall baking without the fuss just whisk, pour, and bake. The result? A dessert so smooth and fragrant, it’ll have your kitchen smelling like a countryside orchard in autumn.
I’m Emeli, and at FoodFansy, I’ve spent years chasing down recipes that marry simplicity with soul. This apple butter pie became a favorite during a chilly November when I was craving something cozy but didn’t have the energy for peeling and slicing apples. One jar of apple butter later, and I had a dessert that tasted like I’d labored all day when really, it took less than 15 minutes to prep. That’s the kind of kitchen magic I live for.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything: why this pie works so beautifully, how to choose quality ingredients, foolproof baking instructions, and creative ways to make it your own. Let’s dive in.
Why This Apple Butter Pie Recipe Works
This isn’t just another pie it’s a shortcut to homemade excellence that tastes like tradition.
- Uses pantry-friendly ingredients: Apple butter, eggs, cream, and spices you likely already own
- Comes together in under 15 minutes: No apple peeling, no complicated steps just mix and bake
- Perfect for any occasion: Weeknight comfort dessert or showstopper for holiday gatherings
- Naturally rich and flavorful: Apple butter brings concentrated apple sweetness and depth, so you don’t need to build flavor from scratch
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Apple Butter Pie
The beauty of this pie lies in its simplicity but quality ingredients make all the difference.
Best Apple Butter for This Recipe
Not all apple butter is created equal. Look for brands with minimal added sugar and real spice notes (cinnamon, cloves, allspice). Homemade apple butter is ideal if you have it, but store-bought works beautifully. I love brands that use slow-cooked apples for a deeper, caramelized flavor.
Buying Tips
- Apple butter: Choose thick, spreadable consistency not runny or watery
- Heavy cream: Full-fat is essential for that luxurious custard texture
- Eggs: Fresh, large eggs at room temperature blend more smoothly
- Pie crust: Homemade or store-bought both work; just ensure it’s unbaked and fits a standard 9-inch pan
Substitutions
- Dairy-free: Swap heavy cream for full-fat coconut cream (the pie will have a subtle coconut note)
- Lower sugar: Reduce granulated sugar to ½ cup if your apple butter is already quite sweet
- Spice variations: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom for extra warmth
Ingredients & Prep for Apple Butter Pie
Pie Filling Essentials
Before you begin, ensure your crust is ready either blind-baked or unbaked as per your preference.
You’ll Need:
- 1 cup apple butter
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Pantry Staples
You likely already have sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla in your kitchen making this a truly convenient dessert!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Apple Butter Pie
Pre-Baking Prep for Apple Butter Pie
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place pie crust in a 9-inch pan. Crimp or flute the edges for a decorative finish.
Mixing the Apple Butter Pie Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together apple butter, sugar, eggs, cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla until completely smooth and no streaks remain. The mixture should be silky and pourable.
Pour the filling into the prepared crust, filling it nearly to the top.
Baking the Apple Butter Pie
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly (like a custard). The edges should look firm, and a knife inserted near the center should come out mostly clean.
Cool completely before slicing this is crucial for clean slices.
Resting the Apple Butter Pie
Let the pie rest at room temperature for at least 2 hours before serving this allows it to firm up perfectly. For best results, refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight. The flavors deepen as it chills, making it even more delicious the next day.
Pro Tips for Perfect Apple Butter Pie
Avoiding Cracks and Overbaking
- Don’t overbake: The center should still have a slight wobble when you remove it from the oven. It will continue to set as it cools.
- Use an oven thermometer: Ovens can run hot or cold, affecting baking time.
- Watch for doneness: If the edges puff up or crack, the pie is overbaking. Remove it immediately.
Tool Recommendations for Apple Butter Pie
- Pie weights: If blind-baking your crust, use pie weights or dried beans to prevent puffing
- Whisk or hand mixer: For a lump-free filling
- Pie shield or aluminum foil: Protect crust edges from over-browning during baking
Storage & Reheating for Apple Butter Pie (H3)
- Refrigerate: Cover and store for up to 4 days
- Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature: Both are delicious chilled is more custard-like, room temp is creamier
Flavor Variations for Apple Butter Pie
Spicy Twist for Apple Butter Pie
Add ¼ tsp cayenne pepper or a pinch of ground ginger to the filling for a warm, spicy kick that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Maple-Glazed Apple Butter Pie
Reduce sugar to ½ cup and add 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup to the filling. Drizzle finished pie with extra maple syrup before serving.
Topped Apple Butter Pie
Crown your pie with whipped cream, candied pecans, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before baking adds a sweet, crunchy crust.
Global Flavors for Apple Butter Pie (H3)
| Variation | Ingredients to Add | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Chai-Spiced | ½ tsp cardamom, ¼ tsp ground cloves, pinch of black pepper | Warm, aromatic, Indian-inspired |
| Bourbon Pecan | 2 tbsp bourbon, ½ cup toasted pecans folded into filling | Rich, Southern comfort |
| Brown Butter | Replace vanilla with 2 tbsp browned butter | Nutty, caramelized depth |
| Salted Caramel | Drizzle with salted caramel sauce before serving | Sweet-salty indulgence |
Serving Suggestions for Apple Butter Pie
This pie shines on its own, but pairing it thoughtfully elevates the experience:
- Classic whipped cream: Lightly sweetened with a hint of vanilla
- Sharp cheddar cheese: A traditional pairing the salty tang contrasts beautifully with sweet apple
- Hot coffee or spiced tea: Chai, cinnamon tea, or a dark roast coffee complement the spices
- Vanilla bean ice cream: Served warm with a scoop melting on top
- Dessert wine pairings: Late-harvest Riesling or tawny port echo the pie’s warm, fruity notes
FAQs About Apple Butter Pie
Can I use pumpkin butter or other fruit butters?
Absolutely! Pumpkin butter, pear butter, or even peach butter work wonderfully using the same measurements. Adjust spices to complement your chosen fruit.
How do I prevent a soggy crust in my Apple Butter Pie?
Brush the unbaked crust with a beaten egg white before adding filling, or blind-bake the crust for 10 minutes before pouring in the custard.
Can I make Apple Butter Pie ahead of time?
Yes! This pie is actually better when made a day ahead. The flavors meld and the texture becomes even creamier after chilling overnight.
Is Apple Butter Pie safe during pregnancy?
The eggs are fully cooked during baking, making this pie safe to eat during pregnancy. Ensure it’s baked until the center reaches 160°F.
My pie filling is too runny what went wrong?
Underbaking is the most common cause. Return it to the oven and bake in 5-minute increments until set. Also, ensure you didn’t accidentally add too much cream.
Can I freeze Apple Butter Pie?
Yes! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Conclusion
There’s something deeply comforting about a slice of Apple Butter Pie it’s the kind of dessert that makes your home feel warmer and your table more welcoming. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday spread or just treating yourself on a Tuesday, this pie delivers effortless elegance.
Fire up your oven and try this tonight! Join the thousands of home cooks at FoodFansy who’ve fallen in love with simple, soulful recipes like this one. And once you’ve mastered this beauty, explore more cozy desserts like our [Classic Pumpkin Cheesecake] or [Spiced Pear Galette] for your next baking adventure.
Happy baking, and as always let’s make something unforgettable together.
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends or save it for later! I’d love to see your unique twist feel free to post your photos on Pinterest!
Emeli
Print
Apple Butter Pie – Creamy, Spiced Fall Dessert You’ll Love
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 1 pie (8 servings) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, spiced Apple Butter Pie with rich fall flavors and a buttery crust perfect for holidays and cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
1 cup apple butter
3 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare a 9-inch pie crust in a pan.
3. Whisk apple butter, sugar, eggs, cream, and spices until smooth.
4. Pour filling into the crust.
5. Bake 45–50 minutes or until set.
6. Cool 2 hours before serving.
Notes
You can use store-bought apple butter.
Top with whipped cream or caramel for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Apple Butter Pie, fall dessert, easy pie recipe