Apple Butter Pie Recipe

I absolutely love how this Apple Butter Pie Recipe comes together with the cozy spices and that irresistible apple butter filling. It’s got this perfect balance of sweet, tart, and warmly spiced flavors that just scream comfort—making it a top pick for chilly evenings or festive occasions. When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how the crumbly oat topping complemented the silky filling, giving each bite texture and that little extra crunch.

You’ll find that this Apple Butter Pie Recipe works wonderfully as a holiday dessert or any time you want to impress friends without fussing over complicated steps. Plus, making the crust from scratch gives it a buttery, tender base that holds everything together while still letting the apples shine. If you’re someone who’s struggled with soggy pie fillings before, this recipe’s got some tricks that keep it just right every time.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Apple Butter Pie Recipe come together beautifully with pantry staples plus that star—apple butter! Choosing good-quality apple butter and fresh spices makes a huge difference in flavor. Also, I like to use cold, unsalted butter for the crust and topping to get that perfect flaky texture.

• All-purpose flour: Choose a good quality brand; it’s the base of both crust and topping.
• Granulated sugar: For subtle sweetness in the dough and topping.
• Kosher salt: Enhances every flavor component.
• Cold unsalted butter: Vital for a flaky crust and crumbly topping; keep it cold for best results.
• Cold water: Helps bring the dough together without warming the butter.
• Apple cider vinegar: A trick I learned that tenderizes the crust and brightens flavor.
• Old-fashioned oats: For that signature oat crumble topping.
• Light brown sugar: Adds warmth and depth to the topping.
• Apple butter: The soul of this pie; pick one with good texture and natural sweetness.
• Sweetened condensed milk: Creates a creamy, rich consistency in the filling.
• Large eggs: Provide structure and richness.
• Pure vanilla extract: Adds another layer of warmth and aroma.
• Ground cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg: The perfect trio for spice harmony.

Variations

I like to play around with this Apple Butter Pie Recipe depending on the season or occasion. Adding nuts or switching up spices can make it feel brand new each time. Don’t be afraid to adjust it to what you and your loved ones like best—you really can’t go wrong here.

• Nutty Twist: I once added chopped pecans to the oat topping for extra crunch; my family went crazy for the texture contrast.
• Spice Variations: Sometimes I boost the cinnamon or try a pinch of allspice to change up the cozy vibe.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substituting the flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free blend works well, just chill the dough longer.
• Less Sweet Option: You can reduce sugar in the topping if you prefer a milder sweetness without losing flavor.

How to Make Apple Butter Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Flaky Pie Crust

Start by whisking your flour, sugar, and salt in a big bowl. Then, toss in the cold butter cubes and use your hands to rub it into the dry ingredients until the bits look like walnut halves—this little texture ensures a flaky crust. Next, sprinkle in the cold water and apple cider vinegar, tossing gently to bring the dough together. Keep adding water one tablespoon at a time until your dough feels moist but not sticky. Form it into a smooth disc, wrap it tight, and pop it in the fridge for at least two hours. Trust me, this resting step is key for that perfect crust!

Step 2: Roll, Chill, and Blind Bake the Crust

Take the dough out after chilling, let it sit for about 5-10 minutes so it’s easier to roll. Dust your surface with flour, then roll out the dough into a 12-inch round. Carefully transfer it to your 9-inch pie plate and gently press it into place without stretching. Chill it again for about 10 minutes—that cold crust keeps its shape during baking. Trim and tuck the edges, then crimp to give a nice decorative finish. Before filling, line the crust with parchment and fill with pie weights (or dry beans) to blind bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes until it’s lightly golden. This step prevents a soggy bottom, which I learned is a game changer.

Step 3: Mix the Filling and Make the Topping

Lower the oven temp to 375°F. In a large bowl, whisk together apple butter, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and vanilla until silky smooth. Spice it up with cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg—these keep the filling deliciously fragrant. For the topping, mix oats, brown sugar, flour, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in another bowl. Rub in the cold butter with your fingers until the mixture has pea-sized clumps that will brown beautifully on top.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Pie

Pour the spiced apple butter filling into your pre-baked crust, smoothing the top for even baking. Sprinkle that oat topping evenly across the surface. Pop it back in the oven for 35 to 45 minutes until the pie jiggles just slightly in the center and the topping turns a gorgeous golden brown. Let the pie cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least two hours to set before slicing. The first time I cut it too soon, and it was a little too loose, so patience is a virtue here!

How to Serve Apple Butter Pie Recipe

Garnishes

I love garnishing this Apple Butter Pie Recipe with a dollop of whipped cream or a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream—that melting vanilla goodness pairs so well with the warm spices. Sometimes I sprinkle a bit of cinnamon sugar on top just before serving for a little sparkle and extra flavor burst.

Side Dishes

If you’re serving this at a gathering, I like pairing it with a sharp cheddar cheese plate—the salty, creamy cheddar contrasts beautifully and is a fun twist traditionalists love. Warm spiced cider or a fresh cup of coffee work wonders alongside, too.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve tried presenting this pie in smaller individual ramekins topped with the oat crumble for cute, personal servings. Another fun idea is to dust with powdered sugar in a festive pattern or add edible autumn leaves for a seasonal vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Apple Butter Pie wrapped tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh and the flavors actually deepen after a day or two, so it’s perfect to enjoy the next day. Just remember to slice with a sharp knife to avoid crumbling.

Freezing

Freezing apple butter pie works great if you wrap it well in foil and plastic wrap to protect it from freezer burn. I usually freeze it pre-baked, then thaw overnight in the fridge when I’m ready to eat. The texture stays remarkably intact thanks to the crumbly topping.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, I recommend warming slices in a 325°F oven for about 10-15 minutes to revive the crust’s crispness without drying out the filling. Microwaving quickens it but can make crust soggy, so the oven method is my go-to for keeping quality.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Apple Butter Pie Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s one of those desserts that instantly evokes cozy memories and connects us to seasonal traditions. I can’t recommend it enough if you want something that’s both approachable and a bit unique. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s become a family favorite, and I hope it finds a spot in your dessert rotation, too—trust me, this is one pie you’ll want to make again and again.

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