The moment I took my first bite of apple butter pie, I was transported to a cozy autumn afternoon, the aroma of baked apples swirling in the air. This Creamy Apple Butter Pie with Cinnamon Whipped Cream offers a delightful twist on traditional flavors, boasting a rich, custard-like filling that’s both silky and intensely fruity. Perfect for those looking to elevate their fall dessert game, this pie is not only a crowd-pleaser but also an easy treat to whip up for Thanksgiving gatherings. With its smooth texture and enticing scent, it’s an unforgettable alternative to more conventional desserts. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the warm, inviting essence of homemade goodness?
Why is This Pie So Special?
Creamy Texture: The filling is elegantly smooth, reminiscent of a velvety custard, making each bite melt in your mouth.
Fall Flavor Favorite: Packed with rich apple taste, it brings the essence of the season right to your table without the heaviness of traditional spice.
Quick to Prepare: You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this pie—from the flaky crust to the luscious filling, it’s a time-saver for any holiday gathering!
Impressive Presentation: Topped with cinnamon whipped cream, it looks gorgeous and is sure to earn compliments from friends and family. If you’re also seeking delightful treats, try my Peanut Butter Jelly or Chocolate Peanut Butter recipes!
Versatile Ingredient Use: Apple butter can be swapped for other spreads like pumpkin butter, offering a unique spin whenever you desire.
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings, this pie is sure to please a crowd while capturing the heartwarming essence of homemade desserts!
Apple Butter Pie Ingredients
• Note: Gather these essentials for a delightful Apple Butter Pie with Cinnamon Whipped Cream.
For the Crust
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure for the pie crust; substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
- Unsalted butter – Adds richness and flakiness; ensure it’s cold for best results.
- Kosher salt – Enhances the crust’s flavor.
- Ice water – Binds the crust ingredients; keep it cold to prevent melting the butter.
For the Filling
- Apple butter – Main flavoring agent of the filling, delivering a rich apple taste; consider using homemade for freshness.
- Eggs – Helps set the filling and creates a creamy texture.
- Dark brown sugar – Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
- All-purpose flour (for filling) – Stabilizes the filling.
- Vanilla paste/extract – Boosts the flavor for an aromatic touch.
- Sweetened condensed milk – Contributes sweetness and creaminess to the filling.
For the Whipped Cream
- Heavy whipping cream – The base for the whipped topping, providing a light texture when whipped.
- Powdered sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream.
- Ground cinnamon – Introduces warmth and spice, enhancing the whipped cream’s flavor.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Butter Pie with Cinnamon Whipped Cream
Step 1: Prepare Pie Crust
Start by combining 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt in a food processor. Cut in ½ cup of cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until the dough comes together in a shaggy ball. Chill this dough in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours to ensure a flaky crust.
Step 2: Roll Out Dough
Once chilled, lightly flour your countertop and roll out the dough to about ⅛ inch thick. Carefully fit the rolled dough into a 9-inch pie plate, pressing into the edges. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges for a decorative touch. Preheat your oven to 375°F and par-bake the crust for 15 minutes with pie weights, then remove the weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden.
Step 3: Make Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of apple butter, 3 large eggs, ¾ cup of dark brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour until smooth. Gradually mix in 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to create a creamy filling. The apple butter pie filling should have a luscious, even consistency for a delightful flavor experience.
Step 4: Bake Pie
Once the crust has par-baked and cooled slightly, pour the apple butter filling into the crust. Bake your pie in the preheated oven at 325°F for 40-45 minutes. The filling should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when done. This soft texture is key to achieving the perfect custard-like consistency in your apple butter pie.
Step 5: Cool
Once baked, carefully remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 3 hours. This cooling period allows the filling to firm up further, making it easier to slice. You’ll enjoy the inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen as the pie sets to perfection.
Step 6: Prepare Whipped Cream
In a stand mixer, beat together 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until soft peaks begin to form. The whipped cream should be light and fluffy, ready to top your delicious apple butter pie. For an extra touch, swirl in some additional apple butter.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the cooled apple butter pie into wedges, cleaning the knife between cuts for neat slices. Serve each slice with a generous dollop of cinnamon whipped cream on top. This delightful combination brings warmth and sweetness, perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dessert night.
Apple Butter Pie with Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this recipe to your taste preferences and dietary needs.
- Pumpkin Butter: Swap apple butter for pumpkin butter for a cozy twist that still captures the fall essence.
- Nutmeg or Clove: Add a pinch of nutmeg or clove to the filling for a deeper warmth in every bite.
- Graham Cracker Crust: Use a graham cracker crust instead of the traditional pie crust for a delightful change in texture.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free condensed milk for a luscious vegan option.
- Sweetened Apples: Layer thinly sliced fresh apples on the bottom of the pie crust for a delicious surprise.
- Apple Cider Reduction: Drizzle a reduction of apple cider over the filling before baking for an extra flavor punch.
- Extra Cinnamon: Mix an additional teaspoon of cinnamon into the whipped cream for a more pronounced flavor profile.
- Nut Topping: Top the pie with chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added texture and crunch, reminiscent of a streusel.
Let these variations guide your baking adventures, just like how I love to incorporate different flavors into my kitchen creations, including Brown Butter Mashed or creating a memorable dessert like Chocolate Peanut Butter. Enjoy making this apple butter pie uniquely yours!
Expert Tips for Apple Butter Pie
- Check Ingredient Temperatures: Always ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. This yields a smoother filling for your apple butter pie.
- Avoid Soggy Crust: Properly par-bake the crust until it’s lightly golden to prevent it from becoming soggy once the filling is added.
- Use Weights Wisely: Use pie weights or dried beans while par-baking to keep the crust’s shape intact and prevent puffing.
- Smooth Slices: For beautifully neat slices, clean your knife between cuts. This technique keeps the creamy filling intact and adds to the presentation.
- Cool Completely: Allow your pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 3 hours before slicing. This helps the filling set and enhances the overall texture.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Butter Pie
- Room Temperature: Keep the pie lightly covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. Enjoy its fresh flavor while it lasts!
- Fridge: Store the pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its creamy texture and rich taste.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices of the apple butter pie tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, freezing for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then enjoy slices at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes for a freshly baked touch.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Apple Butter Pie with Cinnamon Whipped Cream are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the pie crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, make the pie crust and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. You can also mix the apple butter filling (combine apple butter, eggs, brown sugar, flour, and sweetened condensed milk) and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. When you’re set to serve, simply pour the filling into the chilled crust and bake as directed. It’s a convenient way to ensure that your dessert is just as delicious and fresh with minimal stress during the busy holiday season!
What to Serve with Apple Butter Pie with Cinnamon Whipped Cream
Complement your dessert spread with delightful accompaniments that enhance the experience of enjoying this creamy pie.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Its cool creaminess contrasts beautifully with the warm spices of the pie, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling rich caramel over each slice adds a sweet, gooey touch that pairs perfectly with the apple flavors of the pie.
- Cranberry Relish: The tartness of cranberry relish cuts through the sweetness, providing a refreshing bite that cleanses the palate.
- Spiced Chai Latte: Sip on a warm, spiced chai tea to embrace the fall flavors; the spices will enhance the comforting notes of the pie.
- Gingersnap Cookies: These crunchy cookies provide a delightful textural contrast and echo the warm spices in the pie.
- Whipped Cream: Consider serving additional whipped cream on the side, allowing guests to add a light, fluffy topping per their preference.
- Apple Cider: Pairing your pie with warm spiced apple cider evokes autumn memories and amplifies the pie’s fruity essence.
- Bourbon or Maple Syrup: A splash of bourbon or a drizzle of maple syrup can deepen the dessert experience, adding warmth and richness to each bite.
- Pecan Pie Bars: For a unique twist, serve alongside pecan pie bars for a sweet variety that will please any dessert lover at your gathering.
Apple Butter Pie with Cinnamon Whipped Cream Recipe FAQs
What kind of apples should I use for apple butter?
Absolutely! Look for sweet, tart apples like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith. These varieties balance well in flavor, ensuring your apple butter has the perfect sweet-tart profile. Avoid waxy apples, as they won’t release enough juice.
How long can I store apple butter pie?
You can store your apple butter pie lightly covered at room temperature for about 2 days. If you’d like it to last longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Always enjoy it cold or at room temperature for the best flavor!
Can I freeze apple butter pie?
Yes! For freezing, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and serve it at room temperature or warm it in the oven for a lovely, freshly baked taste.
What should I do if my crust is soggy?
If your crust turns out soggy, it most likely wasn’t adequately par-baked. For best results, ensure to bake the crust until it’s slightly golden before adding the filling. You can also try using pie weights or dried beans during par-baking to keep the crust from puffing up and losing its shape.
Is this pie suitable for pets?
Unfortunately, apple butter pie is not suitable for pets. It contains sugar and ingredients like sweetened condensed milk, which are not healthy for dogs and cats. Always keep this delectable dessert out of reach from furry friends to ensure their safety!
Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Yes! The apple butter pie includes common allergens such as eggs and dairy (butter, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream). For a gluten-free option, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and for dairy-free alternatives, look for coconut milk or plant-based cream substitutes for the whipped topping. Always check labels for ingredients like powdered sugar that can sometimes contain processed allergens.
Creamy Apple Butter Pie with Cinnamon Whipped Cream Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt in a food processor. Cut in ½ cup of cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until the dough comes together in a shaggy ball. Chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours.
- Once chilled, lightly flour your countertop and roll out the dough to about ⅛ inch thick. Fit the rolled dough into a 9-inch pie plate. Trim excess dough and crimp edges. Preheat the oven to 375°F and par-bake the crust for 15 minutes with pie weights, then bake for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of apple butter, 3 large eggs, ¾ cup of dark brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour until smooth. Gradually mix in 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Once the crust has par-baked, pour the apple butter filling into the crust. Bake at 325°F for 40-45 minutes.
- Carefully remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 3 hours.
- In a stand mixer, beat together 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Slice the cooled apple butter pie into wedges and serve each slice with a generous dollop of cinnamon whipped cream on top.
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