Apple Butter Pie

This Apple Butter Pie is a delightful dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall. With its creamy filling made from rich, prepared apple butter, each slice delivers a burst of apple flavor that’s both comforting and indulgent. This pie is suitable for any occasion, be it a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering. Serve it with Maple Whipped Cream to elevate the experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Even novice bakers can master this simple recipe with minimal fuss.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of apple butter, spices, and cream creates a uniquely bold taste.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for holidays, gatherings, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with a whole-grain spelt crust, it’s a healthier twist on traditional pie.
• Perfectly Satisfying: With its silky texture and warm spices, this pie is comfort food at its best.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Pie plate
• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• Pie weights (or dry rice/beans/lentils)
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Ensures that your mixture is well blended, creating a smooth filling.
• Pie plate: A good quality pie plate helps in even baking and presentation.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Apple Butter Pie, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 (9-inch) spelt pie crust (see notes below)
• 1-¾ cups (470 grams/17 ounces) prepared apple butter
• 1 cup (226 grams) heavy cream
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup packed (110 grams) brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon coarse kosher salt
• Pinch ground cloves

How to Make Apple Butter Pie

Step 1: Roll Out the Dough

• Roll out the pie dough to an 11-inch circle.
• Fit the pastry into a 9-inch pie plate, pressing it into the sides and bottom.
• Crimp the edges as desired.
• Prick the bottom with a fork to let steam escape during baking.
• Place the pie in the freezer for 15 minutes to chill.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375ºF and adjust oven racks to middle and lower positions.

Step 3: Prepare the Pie Shell

• Remove the chilled pie shell from the freezer.
• Line it with parchment paper and add pie weights (dry rice, beans, or lentils).
• Make sure to push weights against the edges.

Step 4: Blind Bake the Crust

Bake for 20 minutes on the lower rack. Then:
1. Carefully remove parchment and weights.
2. Return crust to oven for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Set aside until ready for filling. Lower oven temperature to 325ºF.

Step 5: Mix Filling Ingredients

In a large bowl:
* Add all ingredients including prepared apple butter and whisk until fully combined.

Step 6: Fill and Bake Pie

Carefully pour the filling into the blind-baked pie shell:
1. Smooth it into an even layer.
2. Bake on middle rack for about 45–55 minutes or until edges puff up but center remains slightly wobbly.

Step 7: Cool and Chill

Transfer baked pie to a wire rack:
* Allow cooling before refrigerating for at least 6 hours until fully set.

How to Serve Apple Butter Pie

Apple Butter Pie is a delightful dessert that brings a touch of fall flavor to any gathering. Here are some tasty serving suggestions to elevate your pie experience.

A La Mode

• Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast to the pie’s smooth filling.

Maple Whipped Cream

• Drizzle freshly whipped cream infused with maple syrup over the pie for added sweetness and a rich flavor.

Spiced Nuts

• Serve alongside a handful of spiced nuts, such as candied pecans or walnuts, for a crunchy texture that complements the pie.

Fresh Fruit

• Accompany the pie with slices of fresh apples or pears for a refreshing balance, enhancing the apple flavor in the pie.

Caramel Sauce

• Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice for an indulgent treat that pairs beautifully with the spices in the pie.

How to Perfect Apple Butter Pie

Creating the perfect Apple Butter Pie requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Here’s how to ensure your pie turns out just right.

• Chill the crust: A chilled pie crust prevents shrinkage during baking, helping it maintain its shape.
• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for high-quality apple butter and organic eggs for better flavor and texture in your filling.
• Check doneness carefully: Use a thermometer to ensure your pie reaches an internal temperature above 180ºF for a perfectly set filling.
• Let it cool: Allow the pie to cool completely before refrigerating. This helps achieve the desired firmness.
• Refrigerate overnight: For best results, let your pie chill in the refrigerator overnight before serving, allowing flavors to meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Butter Pie

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Butter Pie can enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the spices in the pie.
2. Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheddar or creamy brie for contrast; both make excellent companions alongside dessert.
3. Warm Spiced Cider: Serve this cozy drink warm; it’s fragrant and enhances the autumnal feel of your meal.
4. Candied Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the apple butter without being overly rich.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts contrasts nicely with the sweet flavors of the pie.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light salad with citrus dressing adds freshness and balances out the richness of your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Butter Pie can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Bold crust: Failing to chill the pie crust properly can result in a dense and tough texture. Always chill your crust for at least 15 minutes before baking.
• Bold filling: Overmixing the filling ingredients may introduce too much air, causing the pie to puff up excessively. Mix gently until just combined.
• Bold baking time: Not keeping an eye on the baking time can lead to overcooking or undercooking. Check for doneness by ensuring the center is slightly wobbly but not liquid.
• Bold cooling: Skipping the cooling step before refrigerating can impact the texture of your pie. Allow it to cool on a wire rack for better results.
• Bold serving: Not allowing enough chilling time can affect the firmness of your pie. Aim for at least 6 hours in the refrigerator before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Apple Butter Pie in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Butter Pie

• Wrap slices or whole pies tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Apple Butter Pie

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-45 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Butter Pie.

How do I make my Apple Butter Pie filling thicker?

You can add a bit more brown sugar or use cornstarch as a thickening agent if you desire a firmer filling.

Can I use homemade apple butter?

Absolutely! Homemade apple butter adds a personal touch and unique flavor to your Apple Butter Pie.

What should I serve with Apple Butter Pie?

Consider pairing it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to complement its rich flavors.

How long does it take for Apple Butter Pie to set?

After baking, let it cool and chill in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours before serving to achieve optimal texture.

Can I customize my Apple Butter Pie recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add spices like ginger or cloves, or even mix in chopped nuts for extra texture.

Final Thoughts

Apple Butter Pie is not only delicious but also versatile. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. You can customize it with various spices or toppings, making it uniquely yours. Try this delightful recipe and enjoy its rich apple flavors!