Smooth, creamy apple butter pie bursts with autumn flavor and takes only minutes to assemble. Its custard-like texture and warm cinnamon notes make it a wonderful alternative to traditional pumpkin pie.
This pie delivers the familiar comfort of holiday custard desserts but swaps pumpkin for concentrated apple flavor. The filling is silky and smooth, and a dollop of whipped cream on top is optional but highly recommended.
I enjoy simple, old-fashioned recipes during the holidays. Apple butter pie feels nostalgic and straightforward while still tasting indulgent thanks to its creamy texture and cinnamon warmth.
Ingredients for apple butter pie
This recipe uses a short ingredient list, perfect for a pantry-friendly dessert.
- Pie crust. Use a prepared 9″ pie crust—homemade or store-bought. A gluten-free crust also works well if needed.
- Apple butter. Homemade or store-bought apple butter both work; choose your favorite variety.
- Eggs. Three large eggs provide structure for the custard filling.
- Half and half. This gives the filling its rich, creamy texture. Whole milk will work in a pinch, though the result will be less rich.
- Sugar. A modest amount since apple butter is already sweet.
- Cinnamon. For classic warm spice flavor.
- Cornstarch. A small amount helps thicken the filling and reduce weepiness.
Tips and FAQs
Is apple butter pie the same as apple pie? No. Classic apple pie is made with sliced apples and a thickened, chunky filling. Apple butter pie is a smooth custard flavored with apple butter, so there are no apple slices—just concentrated apple flavor in a creamy custard.
Can I use homemade apple butter? Yes. Homemade apple butter works beautifully. You can also use caramel apple butter or another flavored variety, but it will change the pie’s taste and color slightly.
Can this pie be made ahead? Yes. Like many spiced custard pies, flavors meld and improve after resting. Cover and refrigerate for 3–5 days; this makes it easy to prep for holidays like Thanksgiving.
What if I don’t have half and half? Mix equal parts heavy cream and milk to make a substitute. Evaporated milk can be used in a pinch. Regular milk will yield a thinner, less creamy filling. Sweetened condensed milk has been used in some variations, but if you use it you should reduce the added sugar accordingly.
Substitution ideas: Swap brown sugar for granulated sugar, add a splash of vanilla, adjust spices (nutmeg or allspice work well), or experiment with similar purees if you prefer a different flavor profile.
How to make apple butter pie
This filling is straightforward and quick to prepare. Follow these steps:
1. Prepare a 9″ pie crust: roll it out and fit into a 9″ pie pan, crimping the edges. Chill briefly if desired.
2. Preheat the oven to 350ºF.
3. In a small bowl, combine the sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch—this helps prevent lumps when mixing with the wet ingredients.
4. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until well blended.
5. Whisk in the apple butter, then add the sugar/cornstarch/cinnamon mixture.
6. Gradually whisk in the half and half until the filling is completely smooth and uniform.
7. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any possible drips, then bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes. The center will still be slightly jiggly when done, but a knife inserted into the center should come out clean; the filling will finish setting as it cools.
8. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely to room temperature, then refrigerate if you prefer it chilled. Serve slices with whipped cream if desired.
How to store leftover pie
Cover the pie with plastic wrap or transfer slices into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for several days. Freezing is not recommended because ice crystals can change the custard’s texture, making it watery after thawing.
Recipe at a glance
Basic ingredient amounts for a 9″ pie:
- 1 9″ pie crust, unbaked
- 2/3 cup apple butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 cups half and half
Instructions summary: Preheat oven to 350ºF. Prepare crust. Mix sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Whisk eggs, then add apple butter and sugar mixture. Stir in half and half. Pour into crust and bake about 60 minutes until a knife comes out clean. Cool completely before serving, and top with whipped cream if you like.
Enjoy a comforting, old-fashioned dessert that’s rich, simple, and full of apple spice—perfect for holiday tables or any cozy autumn day.
More recipes to enjoy:
- Sweet potato pie
- Dutch apple pie
- Fried apples
- Gluten-free apple crisp
- Apple jam