Apple Butter Pie Recipe

If you’re the kind of friend who lights up at the sight (and scent!) of cozy fall desserts, you are in for a treat. Apple Butter Pie is a warmly-spiced, custard-style delight that wraps creamy eggs, bold cinnamon, silky apple butter, and sweet milk in a tender pastry crust. Every bite brings soft, buttery layers of apple flavor that land somewhere between classic pie and comforting pudding. It’s a celebration of seasonal ingredients that manages to be humble enough for a weeknight and spectacular enough for every holiday table. Apple Butter Pie is the sort of recipe you’ll want to make again and again—let me show you why!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple, everyday ingredients become pure magic when blended together for this pie. Each one has its own part to play: the eggs add rich structure, the apple butter brings depth, and the cinnamon ties everything together with irresistible warmth.

• 2 large eggs: The base of the custard filling, giving your pie luxurious texture and lift.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: For just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the apple flavor.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Ensures a silky-smooth filling that sets up beautifully without lumps.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon: For that essential spiced warmth that pairs perfectly with apples.
• 1/2 cup apple butter: The star ingredient—bold, tangy, and packed with real apple flavor.
• 2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and a subtle richness that elevates every bite.
• Unbaked pastry for 1 9-inch pie crust: Make your own or use store-bought; either way, it holds the luscious filling together.

How to Make Apple Butter Pie

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375ºF so it’s hot and ready to go when your pie is assembled. Give your 9-inch pie dish a quick mist of cooking spray—this helps make sure the crust releases perfectly later, no sticking or crumbling!

Step 2: Mix the Custard Base

In a medium mixing bowl, crack in the eggs and whisk them until they’re frothy and blended. Pour in the sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and apple butter, and give everything a good stir until it’s completely smooth and unified. This thick, spiced mixture is the backbone of your Apple Butter Pie, so take care to mix until there are no streaks of cornstarch or egg left.

Step 3: Add the Milk

Now, pour in the whole milk and whisk gently until the mixture is velvety and pourable. The filling will look creamy and quite liquid at this stage—don’t worry, that’s exactly what you want for the custard to firm up beautifully in the oven.

Step 4: Prep the Pie Crust

Lay your pastry dough into the prepared pie dish, easing it into all the corners. Flute the edges for a decorative effect, or simply fold and crimp them for that perfect rustic touch. The crust is the vessel for your creamy apple butter custard, so don’t rush this part—press it gently so it doesn’t tear.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Carefully pour the filling into the pie crust. Once it’s in, use your spoon to give the mixture one final stir inside the crust. This makes sure all the apple butter is perfectly distributed for an even, balanced flavor in every slice.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place your pie on the bottom oven rack and bake for 60 to 65 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to be set with just a slight jiggle in the center—think pumpkin pie consistency. Slip a knife into the center: if it comes out nearly clean, you’re good to go!

Step 7: Cooling Time

Once golden and aromatic, transfer the pie to a wire rack to cool completely. Resist slicing in too soon—the pie will firm up as it sits, making neat, custardy wedges instead of a soupy mess.

Step 8: Chill Before Serving

Let the finished Apple Butter Pie rest at room temperature until it’s no longer warm, then move it to the refrigerator. This not only preserves its delicate texture but also melds all those cozy apple and cinnamon flavors even more.

How to Serve Apple Butter Pie

Garnishes

A gentle cloud of whipped cream is a classic choice, or try a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re after pure decadence. For a hint of crunch and contrast, a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts is just heavenly. A dusting of cinnamon or even a little caramel drizzle also takes each slice to showstopper status.

Side Dishes

Since Apple Butter Pie is rich and sweet, something simple on the side works wonders. Try serving with a fresh fruit salad—think sliced pears and grapes—or sharp cheddar cheese to balance the flavors. Hot coffee or spiced tea makes the whole experience feel extra cozy.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, cut the pie into small squares instead of wedges for a dessert bar feel! Or, bake the filling in mini tart shells for individual Apple Butter Pie treats. For a dinner party, a drizzle of bourbon caramel or swirl of cinnamon in the whipped cream really turns heads.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Apple Butter Pie keeps beautifully in the fridge. Just cover the cooled pie loosely with plastic wrap or foil and it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. The texture improves as it sits, growing even silkier and more flavorful over time.

Freezing

If you want to make your pie ahead or save a few slices for later, you can freeze Apple Butter Pie. Once the pie is completely cooled, wrap individual slices or the whole pie tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving—still delicious!

Reheating

To enjoy your pie warm, place slices on a baking sheet and heat in a 300ºF oven for about 10 minutes, or until just warmed through. Avoid microwaving larger sections of the pie, as this can make the crust soggy—the oven gives the best results.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat or non-dairy milk instead of whole milk?

Absolutely! While whole milk gives the richest custard, you can swap in 2 percent milk, unsweetened almond milk, or even oat milk. Just expect the texture to be slightly less creamy, but the Apple Butter Pie will still set up and taste wonderful.

Do I need to blind-bake the pie crust first?

Not for this recipe. The custard filling cooks slowly and allows the unbaked crust to set up perfectly—no need for pre-baking. For extra precaution, you can place the pie dish on a hot baking sheet to ensure an extra crisp bottom.

Can I make my own apple butter for this pie?

Homemade apple butter brings incredible flavor, so if you’ve got a batch on hand, definitely use it! If not, store-bought varieties are equally fantastic for this Apple Butter Pie—just go with an unsweetened or lightly sweetened option for best results.

How do I know when my Apple Butter Pie is done baking?

Look for slightly puffed edges and a gently jiggling center. Insert a sharp knife into the middle: it should come out almost clean, with just a trace of creamy filling. Over-baking can lead to a dry texture, so watch closely in the final minutes.

Can I make Apple Butter Pie gluten-free?

Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free pie crust and ensure your apple butter and cornstarch are certified gluten-free. The filling itself is naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this treat without worry.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how easy and rewarding Apple Butter Pie is to make, I truly hope you’ll give it a try soon. It has a way of making any kitchen smell like home, and every bite brings an autumn hug, no matter what time of year. Let this cozy classic find its place at your next gathering—or just as a sweet surprise for an ordinary night!

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