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Apple Butter Pie – Creamy, Spiced, and Perfectly Autumn Sweet

There’s something magical about fall baking — the cozy spices, the scent of apples and cinnamon in the air, and the promise of warm, comforting desserts. Enter the Apple Butter Pie, a velvety, custard-like pie that combines the rich, spiced sweetness of apple butter with the creamy smoothness of heavy cream and eggs, all nestled in a flaky spelt pie crust. This pie is like the elegant cousin of pumpkin pie — familiar yet distinct. Instead of pumpkin purée, it uses apple butter, giving it a deeper, fruitier sweetness with natural apple tang. The brown sugar, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves build those signature autumn flavors we love, while the creamy filling bakes into a silky, luscious texture. Perfect for Thanksgiving, holiday dinners, or cozy weekends, this Apple Butter Pie is a beautiful centerpiece dessert that tastes like fall in every bite. Serve it chilled or slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream — and watch it disappear. 🍎🥧🍂
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Cooling & Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 8 slices
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 9-inch spelt pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 ¾ cups apple butter prepared
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup brown sugar packed (about 110 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 pinch ground cloves
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt coarse
Optional: Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving.
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Equipment

  • Here’s what you’ll need to make this pie:
  • Mixing bowls (1 large, 1 medium)
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • 9-inch pie dish (if using homemade crust)
  • Baking sheet (to catch drips)
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place your pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and crimp or flute the edges as desired. Set aside.
  2. If using a homemade crust, pre-bake (blind bake) for 10 minutes to prevent sogginess.
Step 2: Make the Filling
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the apple butter, brown sugar, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until fully combined and smooth.
  2. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream until the mixture is well blended and slightly frothy.
Step 3: Pour and Smooth
  1. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, using a spatula to spread it evenly.
Step 4: Bake
  1. Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly when gently shaken.
  2. If the crust begins to brown too quickly, cover the edges with foil halfway through baking.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
  1. Remove from the oven and place on a cooling rack. Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours, then refrigerate for another 1–2 hours before slicing.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
  1. Serve chilled or slightly warm, topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon on top for extra flair.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.
Tip: Always let the pie come to room temperature before serving for the creamiest texture.
🥄 Variations
Add your own twist to make this Apple Butter Pie uniquely yours:
Maple Twist: Replace half of the brown sugar with 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup for a deeper sweetness.
Oat Crust: Use an oat-based or graham cracker crust for a rustic touch.
Spiced Apple Delight: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom to the filling for a bolder flavor.
Pecan Topping: Sprinkle chopped pecans or candied walnuts on top before baking.
Mini Pies: Make individual apple butter tarts in muffin tins for a grab-and-go version.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. What is apple butter?
Apple butter is a thick, spiced apple spread made by slow-cooking apples until they caramelize into a smooth, rich puree.
2. Can I use applesauce instead?
Applesauce won’t provide the same thickness or depth of flavor. Stick to apple butter for best results.
3. Do I need to blind-bake the crust?
If you’re using a homemade or soft crust, yes — blind baking helps prevent sogginess.
4. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the pie will be slightly lighter and less rich.
5. How do I know when the pie is done?
The edges should be set, and the center should jiggle slightly but not look liquidy.
6. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Definitely! It actually tastes better the next day after chilling overnight.
7. Is this pie very sweet?
It’s moderately sweet with natural apple flavor and warm spice — not overly sugary.
8. What’s the best crust to use?
Spelt adds a nutty flavor that complements the spices, but you can use a standard pie crust or even a graham cracker base.
9. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use a dairy-free crust.
10. Can I serve it warm?
Absolutely! It’s delicious warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
🏁 Conclusion
This Apple Butter Pie is a cozy, fall-inspired dessert that blends the warmth of spices, apples, and cream into one silky, satisfying bite. It’s simple enough for a weekday treat yet elegant enough for holiday tables.
The combination of creamy custard, rich apple flavor, and buttery crust creates a dessert that’s as comforting as it is irresistible. Whether you’re baking it for guests or savoring it with a cup of tea, this pie delivers the essence of autumn in every slice.