Name: Apple Butter Pie Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: PT-491786H43M52S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (9-inch) spelt pie crust; 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

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If you are dreaming of a dessert that envelops your kitchen with warm, spicy aromas and delivers a luscious, custardy texture with every bite, then this Apple Butter Pie Recipe is just what you need. It’s a delightful twist on classic apple flavors, using rich apple butter combined with fragrant spices and a creamy custard filling all nestled in a flaky, tender spelt crust. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy autumn gathering or just treating yourself, this pie will quickly become a cherished favorite that friends and family rave about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up image shows a white bowl filled with light brown batter that has a smooth, slightly bubbly texture. A woman's hand is holding a small metal whisk, stirring the batter gently on the right side of the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, adding a clean and bright background to the scene. The batter surface reflects soft light, showing its creamy consistency. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Apple Butter Pie Recipe relies on a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Each component plays a key role, from the spiced apple butter that brings depth and sweetness to the velvety custard filling that’s perfectly balanced by just the right amount of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

1 (9-inch) spelt pie crust: Provides a rustic, hearty base with a slightly nutty flavor that complements the filling perfectly.
1-¾ cups (470 grams/17 ounces) prepared apple butter: The star ingredient, packed with concentrated apple goodness and spices.
1 cup (226 grams) heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the custard, ensuring a smooth texture.
3 large eggs: Essential for binding the filling and giving it that classic custard consistency.
½ cup packed (110 grams) brown sugar: Brings a deep molasses-like sweetness that perfectly complements the apple butter.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Offers warm spice notes that are quintessential to apple desserts.
½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg: Provides a subtle, earthy depth to the spice mix.
¼ teaspoon coarse kosher salt: Enhances and balances all the sweet and spicy flavors.
Pinch ground cloves: Adds a sharp, aromatic touch for complexity.

How to Make Apple Butter Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Blind Bake the Pie Crust

Start by rolling out your spelt pie dough to an 11-inch circle and carefully fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. This crust forms the sturdy yet tender base that holds all the magic. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent sogginess during baking, then chill in the freezer for 15 minutes to keep it firm. Preheat your oven to 375ºF and prepare to blind bake the crust. Lining it with parchment and adding pie weights ensures the crust bakes evenly without puffing up, preserving the perfect shape for your filling.

Step 2: Blind Bake the Crust

Bake the crust with pie weights on the lower oven rack for 20 minutes, which helps it set and partially cook. Then remove the weights and parchment, and bake for an additional 5 minutes. At this point, the crust will have developed a lovely golden edge and a firmer base, ready to cradle the luscious filling. Remember to lower your oven temperature to 325ºF for the next step.

Step 3: Mix the Custard Filling

In a large bowl, whisk together the apple butter, heavy cream, eggs, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and cloves until everything is fully combined and smooth. The mixture should have a lovely sheen and aromatic spices that are signature to this Apple Butter Pie Recipe. This custard blend ensures a filling that is rich yet light, with just the right balance of sweet and spice.

Step 4: Bake the Pie with the Filling

Pour the custard filling gently into your pre-baked pie shell, smoothing it out evenly. Place the pie on the middle rack of your oven and bake at 325ºF for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges start puffing slightly, and the center remains just a little wobbly but sets upon cooling. The internal temperature should reach above 180ºF, guaranteeing a perfectly cooked custard.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Once baked, transfer the pie to a wire rack to cool at room temperature. Afterward, refrigerate it for at least 6 hours or overnight. This chilling step is crucial because it allows the filling to fully firm up, resulting in a slice that holds beautifully when served, with a texture that’s creamy and satisfying.

How to Serve Apple Butter Pie Recipe

The image shows a pumpkin pie in a white pie plate with a crimped golden-brown crust forming a wavy edge around the pie. The filling is smooth and deep orange-brown with subtle spiral ridges on the surface. On one side of the pie, there are ten small, light beige pastry leaf shapes arranged in a semi-circle, adding a decorative touch. The pie is placed on a surface with a white marbled texture, and a light brown and white striped cloth is partly visible in the top right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Elevate your serving of this Apple Butter Pie Recipe with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon on top for extra warmth, or garnish with thin apple slices or toasted pecans for a lovely crunch and presentation that impresses.

Side Dishes

This pie shines on its own but pairs beautifully with lightly spiced chai tea or a cup of black coffee for a comforting autumnal experience. If you’re serving during a meal, consider simple sides like roasted butternut squash or a crisp green salad to balance out the richness of the dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve mini versions of this Apple Butter Pie Recipe in individual ramekins. Alternatively, create a dessert platter with slices of pie arranged alongside cinnamon sticks, fresh apples, and nuts for a rustic, inviting display that encourages sharing and conversation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Apple Butter Pie can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days without losing its fantastic texture or flavor. Keeping it chilled helps maintain the custard’s firmness and prevents any sogginess in the crust.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this Apple Butter Pie Recipe at a later time, you can freeze the whole pie tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving to preserve the filling’s creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in a low oven at 300ºF for about 10 minutes to warm through without melting the custard completely. Avoid microwaving because it can make the filling watery. A light dusting of cinnamon after reheating refreshes the flavor beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pie crust?

Absolutely! While this Apple Butter Pie Recipe recommends a spelt crust for its unique flavor and texture, you can use classic all-purpose flour crusts or even gluten-free versions depending on your preference. Just make sure to blind bake the crust to avoid sogginess.

Is apple butter store-bought okay to use?

Yes, store-bought apple butter works wonderfully for convenience and consistency. However, if you have the time, homemade apple butter can add an extra layer of freshness and personalized spice level, making your pie truly special.

What is the best way to slice this pie?

For clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water then wiped dry before each cut. This method helps achieve smooth edges without disturbing the delicate custard filling.

Can I make this pie vegan?

This recipe relies on eggs and heavy cream for custard texture, so vegan adaptations would require substitutes like silken tofu or coconut cream combined with plant-based egg replacers, which may alter the final texture significantly.

What should I do if my pie is too runny?

If your pie feels too soft or runny, it might need additional chilling time in the fridge; custard pies often firm up significantly after refrigeration. Make sure to bake until it reaches the recommended internal temperature for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Butter Pie Recipe is truly a heartwarming dessert that brings together the comfort of spiced apples and the indulgence of creamy custard in one spectacular pie. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday table or a weekend treat, it’s guaranteed to fill your home with love and delicious aromas. Go ahead, give it a try and watch it become a new favorite in your baking rotation.