As autumn settles in and the leaves turn vibrant shades, my kitchen transforms into a cozy refuge where traditions reign. This year, I’m swapping the usual pumpkin pie for a rich and creamy Apple Butter Pie with Cinnamon Whipped Cream that’s sure to delight everyone at the table. Not only is this dessert an effortless way to showcase pantry staples, but it also brings a uniquely smooth and fruity flavor that challenges the seasonal classic. Each slice offers the comforting essence of apple pie without the heavy spices, making it a welcome twist on a beloved tradition. Plus, the velvety topping of cinnamon whipped cream? Pure bliss. Ready to create a new holiday favorite that will have your guests raving? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!
Why is this pie a must-try?
Simplicity: You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this delightful Apple Butter Pie, requiring minimal ingredients and basic skills.
Unique Flavor: This pie features a rich, creamy custard made with apple butter, giving it a mouthwatering taste that stands out during gatherings.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether served chilled or at room temperature, this dessert fits perfectly in any setting, right alongside favorites like Caramel Apple Cinnamon or Pumpkin Cream Cheese.
Time-Saving: With prep and bake time under two hours, you’ll have more time to spend with family and friends.
Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of flavors will surely have everyone coming back for seconds, making it a showstopper at your Thanksgiving table!
Apple Butter Pie Ingredients
For the Crust
• All-Purpose Flour – Main structural component for the crust; you can substitute it with gluten-free flour if needed.
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness to the pie crust; remember to keep it cold for best flakiness.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances the flavor of the dough; adjust to taste if using table salt.
• Ice Water – Hydrates the flour while keeping the dough tender; never skip this step!
For the Filling
• Apple Butter – The star of the show, adding moisture and rich apple flavor; homemade is ideal but store-bought works too.
• Large Eggs – Binds the filling together, providing a rich texture; use room temperature eggs for optimal results.
• Dark Brown Sugar – Sweetens the filling and adds depth; light brown sugar is a suitable substitute.
• All-Purpose Flour (for filling) – Thickens the custard and helps stabilize it; this is essential for the right texture.
• Vanilla Paste or Extract – Adds aromatic flavor to the filling; choose pure vanilla extract if you don’t have paste.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – Brings creaminess and sweetness to the pie; this ingredient is non-negotiable.
For the Cinnamon Whipped Cream
• Heavy Whipping Cream – The base for your dreamy topping; keep it chilled for better whipping.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream without compromising its airy texture; use to taste.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds a warming flavor to complement the pie; feel free to adjust according to preference.
This Apple Butter Pie with Cinnamon Whipped Cream is a delightful embrace of flavors that will enchant every guest at your celebration!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Butter Pie with Cinnamon Whipped Cream
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
In a food processor, pulse together 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Add ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes, and pulse until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs. Gradually add ice water, about 3-4 tablespoons, until the dough just holds together. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours for a flaky crust.
Step 2: Roll Out and Par-Bake the Crust
Once chilled, remove the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie plate. Transfer the dough to the pie plate, crimp the edges, and freeze for about 15 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), then par-bake the crust for 15 minutes with pie weights. Remove the weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C). In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup apple butter, 3 large room temperature eggs, ½ cup dark brown sugar, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well combined. Finally, mix in 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk until the filling is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Fill and Bake the Pie
Pour the apple butter filling into your prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggles in the center. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife; it should come out clean from the edges.
Step 5: Cool the Pie
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 3 hours. This cooling period allows the filling to fully set, and the flavors to meld beautifully. You can also chill it in the fridge if you prefer a colder pie.
Step 6: Make the Cinnamon Whipped Cream
While the pie cools, prepare the cinnamon whipped cream. In a mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup heavy whipping cream, ¼ cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon until soft peaks form. This creamy topping will perfectly complement your Apple Butter Pie.
Step 7: Serve with Toppings
Slice the cooled apple butter pie and serve it with a generous dollop of cinnamon whipped cream on top. For extra flavor, drizzle a bit of apple butter over each slice if desired. This warm, inviting dessert is sure to be a hit at any gathering!
What to Serve with Apple Butter Pie with Cinnamon Whipped Cream
As you prepare to indulge in this creamy delight, consider these pairings to create a memorable meal experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds a creamy contrast, enhancing the pie’s rich apple flavor. The cooler touch of ice cream balances warmth from the pie, creating a delightful duo.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel on top brings a sweet, buttery richness that beautifully complements the apple butter. Its silky texture adds an extra layer of indulgence that brings smiles to the table.
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Fresh Whipped Cream: A dollop of plain whipped cream offers a light, airy quality that enhances the velvety custard of the pie without overshadowing it. Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon for an extra hint of warmth.
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Coffee or Spiced Tea: The depth of coffee or a warm spiced tea can enhance the lively flavors in the pie. These beverages help cleanse the palate after each slice while adding to the comforting vibe of the meal.
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Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast, balancing the sweetness of the pie. The tartness makes each bite exciting, ensuring that flavors pop in delightful ways.
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Ginger Snap Cookies: A crunchy side of ginger snap cookies introduces a unique spice dimension that complements the apple butter. Their crunchy texture is a fun contrast to the smoothness of the pie filling.
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Sliced Apples with Cinnamon: Fresh apple slices sprinkled with cinnamon create a delightful texture and a refreshing bite to cleanse the palate. They echo the flavors in the pie, reinforcing that delightful apple experience.
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Chai Latte: A warm chai latte presents spices like cinnamon and cardamom that echo what’s in the pie, making it a cozy, spicy addition to your dessert table.
Each of these options brings its charm, transforming your Apple Butter Pie into a standout centerpiece at your gathering. Enjoy the smiles as your loved ones savor every moment together!
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Butter Pie with Cinnamon Whipped Cream are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the pie crust up to 3 days in advance by storing it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. The pie filling can also be mixed ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours; just give it a good stir before pouring into the crust. To maintain the pie’s integrity, ensure it’s completely cooled before storing, and cover it lightly in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply bake the prepared pie and whip up the cinnamon cream shortly before serving for that fresh touch. This thoughtful prep will leave you with a show-stopping dessert with minimal last-minute effort!
Apple Butter Pie with Cinnamon Whipped Cream Variations
Feel free to mix things up and make this delightful pie even more uniquely yours with these fun variations!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously inclusive dessert.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream for the topping for a delightful dairy-free option. It adds a unique flavor twist too!
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the filling for extra warmth and spice. It creates surprising depth of flavor that’ll keep everyone guessing.
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Nutty Crust: Incorporate ground almonds or walnuts into the crust for a delightful nutty undertone that complements the apple flavors beautifully.
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Fruity Twist: Swap apple butter for pear or pumpkin butter to create a whole new flavor profile. The seasonal variations can be just as delightful as the original!
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Syrupy Sweet: Drizzle some maple syrup over the filling before baking for a touch of maple sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the apple flavors.
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Chocolate Finish: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips in the filling for a fun, unexpected treat! It’ll bring a chocolatey richness that’s hard to resist.
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Chilled Option: Serve the pie chilled for a refreshing dessert, perfect for warmer gatherings. It pairs wonderfully with your homemade Mini Banana Cream for a two-pie display!
Don’t hesitate to experiment and create a pie that truly reflects your taste preferences! Whether you stick with the classic or try these twists, your Apple Butter Pie with Cinnamon Whipped Cream will surely be a hit at the table.
Expert Tips for Apple Butter Pie
Perfect Pie Crust: Use cold butter and ice water to create a flaky crust. Overworking the dough leads to dense results—less is more!
Cooling Time: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. It will set further once cooled, ensuring clean and beautiful slices.
Egg Temperature: Make sure to use room temperature eggs for the filling to ensure a smooth and creamy texture in your Apple Butter Pie.
Watch the Edges: If your pie crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning while the filling sets perfectly.
Serving Style: This pie can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. Pairing with cinnamon whipped cream enhances its delightful flavors and adds a lovely touch!
How to Store and Freeze Apple Butter Pie
Room Temperature: Keep the pie covered at room temperature for up to 2-3 days to maintain its delightful texture and flavor.
Fridge: Store the pie tightly wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This helps keep the creamy filling fresh and delicious.
Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap the pie securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze. It can be stored for up to 4 months.
Reheating: Thaw the pie in the fridge overnight before enjoying. Serve chilled or at room temperature, topped with fresh cinnamon whipped cream for that extra blissful touch.
Apple Butter Pie with Cinnamon Whipped Cream Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best apple butter for the pie?
When selecting apple butter, look for a rich and smooth texture with no added preservatives or excessive sugar. Homemade apple butter is fantastic if you have it, as it will deliver the freshest flavor. If you go for store-bought, I recommend checking the ingredient list for pure apple butter with just apple juice and spices.
How should I store leftover apple butter pie?
You can store your apple butter pie at room temperature, covered with foil or a lid, for 2-3 days. If storing longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container in the fridge where it will keep fresh for up to 5 days. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before you cover it to avoid moisture buildup!
Can I freeze apple butter pie?
Absolutely! To freeze your apple butter pie, wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can store it in the freezer for up to 4 months. For best results, thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving, and warm it slightly or enjoy it chilled with a dollop of cinnamon whipped cream.
Why is my pie filling not setting properly?
If your filling isn’t setting as expected, it could be due to underbaking. Keep in mind that the filling should be slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out of the oven. If it’s very runny, try returning it to the oven for a few more minutes, checking frequently. Also, ensure you’re using the correct amounts of eggs and flour, as these are crucial for thickening.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Certainly! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour in the crust and filling with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum, ensuring that the consistency remains right. Just as with regular flour, make sure to measure correctly, and keep an eye on baking times as they may vary slightly.
Is this pie safe for pets?
While the ingredients in apple butter pie should be fine for human consumption, it’s best to avoid sharing it with your pets. The pie contains sugar and possibly other ingredients that may not be ideal for them, such as dark brown sugar. Always consult with your vet before offering them any human food, just to be safe!
Delicious Apple Butter Pie with Cinnamon Whipped Cream Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Pie Crust: In a food processor, pulse together flour and salt. Add cold butter in cubes and pulse until resembling pea-sized crumbs. Gradually add ice water until dough holds together. Chill for 1-2 hours.
- Roll Out and Par-Bake the Crust: Roll out dough to fit a 9-inch pie plate, transfer, crimp edges, and freeze for 15 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), par-bake for 15 minutes with weights, then remove weights and bake for 5 more minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: Reduce oven to 325°F (163°C). Whisk together apple butter, eggs, brown sugar, flour, and vanilla in a bowl. Mix in sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Fill and Bake the Pie: Pour filling into the crust and bake for 40-45 minutes until set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Cool the Pie: Let pie cool at room temperature for about 3 hours for filling to set.
- Make the Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Beat together whipping cream, powdered sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until soft peaks form.
- Serve with Toppings: Slice pie and serve with cinnamon whipped cream. Drizzle apple butter on top if desired.
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