Divine Apple Butter Pie Cinnamon: 1 Perfect Recipe

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Apple Butter Pie Cinnamon has been my go-to fall indulgence for years, ever since I first tasted my aunt Carol’s version. She’d always make it for Thanksgiving, and the aroma of spiced apples and cinnamon filling her kitchen was pure magic. This pie is incredibly comforting, with a silky, smooth apple butter filling that’s perfectly spiced and nestled in a flaky, buttery crust. Topped with a cloud of fluffy cinnamon whipped cream, it’s the ultimate cozy dessert. If you’re looking for an easy baked feta potatoes recipe to serve alongside this sweet treat, you’re in for a real delight! Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Butter Pie

This isn’t just any pie; it’s a hug in dessert form! Here’s why you’ll adore making and serving this Apple Butter Pie Cinnamon:

Incredibly smooth filling: The apple butter creates a luscious, custard-like texture that’s simply divine.
Perfectly spiced: A warm blend of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg makes it the quintessential fall flavor.
Effortless elegance: It looks impressive but is surprisingly straightforward to prepare, making it ideal for any baker.
Cozy comfort: It’s the ultimate dessert for chilly evenings, holidays, or just because you deserve a treat.
Fantastic paired with savory dishes: If you’re wondering about baked feta potato recipes, this pie is a wonderful sweet counterpoint to a savory meal.
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone from kids to grandparents raves about this delightful pie.
Versatile topping: The cinnamon whipped cream adds a light, airy finish that complements the rich filling beautifully.
A delightful contrast: Consider serving this with a side of Greek baked potatoes with feta for a unique sweet and savory combination.

Ingredients for Apple Butter Pie Cinnamon

Gather these ingredients to create your perfect fall dessert. This recipe makes enough for a delicious 9-inch pie, and I’ve found that using good quality apple butter is key to that rich flavor. Don’t worry if you’re serving this alongside a savory dish like baked feta potato recipe; the sweetness complements it perfectly!

1 1/4 cups (155g) all-purpose flour – the base for our flaky crust
1/2 teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors
1 tablespoon granulated sugar – for a hint of sweetness in the crust
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed – essential for a tender, flaky pastry
3-4 tablespoons ice water – just enough to bring the dough together
1 cup (250g) apple butter – the star! Use a thick, good-quality one for the best texture
3/4 cup (180ml) evaporated milk – adds creaminess and body to the filling
2 large eggs – bind the filling and create that custard-like texture
1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar – adds depth and caramel notes
1 teaspoon cinnamon – the primary spice for that classic apple pie flavor
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves – a little goes a long way to add warmth
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg – complements the cinnamon beautifully
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances all the other flavors
Pinch of salt – balances the sweetness
For the Cinnamon Whipped Cream:
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream – must be cold for whipping
2 tablespoons powdered sugar – for sweetness in the cream
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – for that spiced cream topping
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds a lovely aroma and flavor to the cream

How to Make Apple Butter Pie Cinnamon

Making this pie is a wonderfully rewarding process, and I find the aroma alone is worth the effort. Just like you might prepare a delicious baked feta potato recipe, this pie requires a few simple steps for a stunning result. Let’s bring this cozy dessert to life!

Making the Pie Crust

First, in a large bowl, I whisk together the 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon granulated sugar. Then, I cut in the cold, cubed 1/2 cup unsalted butter until it looks like coarse crumbs. I add 3-4 tablespoons ice water, a little at a time, until the dough just comes together. I shape it into a disk, wrap it tightly, and let it chill for at least an hour.

Preparing the Apple Butter Filling

While the crust chills, I prepare the filling. In a separate large bowl, I whisk together the 1 cup apple butter, 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 3/4 cup evaporated milk, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. I whisk until everything is smooth and beautifully combined, creating that signature silky texture.

Blind Baking and Baking the Pie

Now, let’s get baking! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan, trimming and crimping the edges. Line the crust with parchment paper and pie weights (or dried beans!) and blind bake for 15 minutes. Remove the weights and bake for another 5 minutes until lightly golden. Carefully pour the apple butter filling into the par-baked crust and smooth the top. Bake the pie for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center of the apple butter pie is just set and has only a slight jiggle.

Making the Cinnamon Whipped Cream

While the pie cools, whip up the crowning glory! In a chilled mixing bowl, combine 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Whip until soft peaks form. This light, airy cream is the perfect contrast to the rich apple butter pie.

Pro Tips for the Best Apple Butter Pie Cinnamon

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make this apple butter pie absolutely perfect. These tips will help you achieve that wonderfully smooth filling and flaky crust every time you bake, ensuring it’s a star, maybe even alongside a savory dish like a baked feta potato recipe.

Use a thick, high-quality apple butter. Watery apple butter can lead to a runny filling.
Don’t overmix the pie crust dough; this keeps it tender and flaky.
Blind bake the crust thoroughly to prevent a soggy bottom, especially important for a creamy filling.
Allow the pie to cool completely and chill properly before slicing for clean, beautiful servings.

What’s the secret to perfect Apple Butter Pie?

The real magic lies in using a really thick apple butter and ensuring your pie crust is perfectly blind-baked. This prevents a soggy bottom and guarantees that silky, rich filling you’re dreaming of for your apple butter pie.

Can I make Apple Butter Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! I often make the pie the day before a gathering. Once completely cooled, cover it loosely and store it in the refrigerator. It’s even better when the flavors have had time to meld, making it a fantastic make-ahead dessert. For other make-ahead ideas, check out these easy summer recipes.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Apple Butter Pie?

The most common pitfalls are a soggy bottom crust and a runny filling. To avoid this, blind bake your crust well and ensure your apple butter is thick. Also, resist the urge to overbake; the center should be just set, as it will firm up as it cools.

Best Ways to Serve Apple Butter Pie Cinnamon

This delightful pie is wonderful all on its own, but I love serving it with a few special touches. For a truly unique meal experience, consider pairing a slice of this sweet apple butter pie with a savory side. Imagine a creamy baked feta potatoes dish; the salty, savory notes would be a fantastic contrast to the sweet, spiced pie. It’s an unexpected pairing that truly works!

Of course, you can’t go wrong with the homemade cinnamon whipped cream that the recipe makes. A generous dollop on top adds a light, airy sweetness that complements the rich apple butter filling perfectly. For an extra touch, a light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg over the whipped cream really elevates the presentation and aroma. If you enjoy spiced drinks, you might also like these cozy twists on holiday spiced cafe au lait.

Nutrition Facts for Apple Butter Pie Cinnamon

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per slice of this delicious apple butter pie, complete with its cinnamon whipped cream topping. This information is helpful if you’re planning a menu that includes other dishes, perhaps even a savory feta potato bake.

Calories: 380
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 46g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 200mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Apple Butter Pie Cinnamon

Properly storing your apple butter pie ensures it stays delicious for days. After baking, I always let the pie cool completely on a wire rack. This is crucial because storing a warm pie can lead to condensation and a soggy crust. Once fully cooled, I cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. This way, you can enjoy slices for up to 3-4 days. If you’re planning ahead for a special occasion or just want to get a head start, this pie freezes beautifully, much like how you might store leftovers of a baked feta potato recipe.

To freeze, ensure the pie is completely cooled. Wrap the entire pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in a layer of aluminum foil. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. For reheating, you can gently warm individual slices in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This makes it taste almost as fresh as the day it was baked!

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Butter Pie Cinnamon

Can I substitute store-bought apple butter for homemade?

Absolutely! Using good quality store-bought apple butter is perfectly fine. I’ve found that thicker varieties tend to work best for achieving that creamy texture in your apple butter pie. Just ensure it’s not too watery, as that can affect how the filling sets up.

What can I do if my apple butter pie filling is too runny?

If your apple butter pie center is still jiggly after baking, don’t panic! It often firms up as it cools completely in the refrigerator. If it’s still too soft after chilling, you can carefully scoop it out and reheat it gently on the stovetop with a little cornstarch slurry to thicken it, then pour it back into a cooled crust. It’s a bit of a fix, but much like troubleshooting a baked feta potato recipe, it’s often salvageable!

Can I make this pie dairy-free or vegan?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe! For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free butter substitute and a plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) instead of evaporated milk. For a vegan apple butter pie, you’ll also need to replace the eggs with a vegan egg substitute, such as a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) or a commercial vegan egg replacer. The whipped cream can be made with chilled coconut cream.

How does this pie pair with savory dishes?

This apple butter pie is a wonderful sweet complement to many savory meals. It contrasts beautifully with dishes like a rustic baked feta potato recipe or a hearty stew. The sweetness and spice of the pie cut through richer, saltier flavors, creating a balanced and satisfying meal experience.

Variations of Apple Butter Pie Cinnamon You Can Try

While this classic apple butter pie is wonderful as is, I love experimenting with different twists! Here are a few ideas to shake things up, keeping in mind how they might pair with a savory dish like a feta potato bake.

Spiced Crust Variation: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg directly into your pie crust dough. This infuses a subtle warmth right from the base, making it a delightful contrast to a creamy baked feta potatoes dish.
Bourbon or Rum Apple Butter Pie: For an adult twist, add 1-2 tablespoons of bourbon or dark rum to the apple butter filling. This adds a lovely depth of flavor that pairs surprisingly well with the spices.
Gluten-Free Apple Butter Pie: Easily make this pie gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free pie crust mix or a homemade blend of gluten-free flours. The filling remains the same, ensuring a delicious treat for everyone, possibly served alongside oven baked feta potatoes.
Mini Apple Butter Pies: Instead of one large pie, make individual mini pies using muffin tins. This is perfect for portion control and looks incredibly charming, especially for holiday gatherings or potlucks.