If you’re craving a dessert that wraps up the flavors of fall in every single bite, you’ve got to try this Apple Butter Pumpkin Pie with Streusel Topping Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on classic pumpkin pie that brings together the richness of pumpkin puree, the warm sweetness of apple butter, and a perfectly crunchy pecan streusel topping. This pie isn’t just about taste; it’s about texture and cozy aromas that fill your kitchen and heart with pure comfort. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a special weekend treat, this recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite for sharing warmth and joy with loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the ingredient list fool you—these simple staples all play an essential role in crafting the perfect balance of flavors and textures for your pie. From the creamy pumpkin filling to the sweet, nutty streusel topping, each ingredient brings something special to the table.
- 1 Pillsbury refrigerated pie crust: The sturdy, buttery base that holds all that delicious filling together with a flaky finish.
- 1 cup solid pack 100% pumpkin (pumpkin puree): Provides the classic pumpkin flavor and creamy texture every great pumpkin pie needs.
- 1 cup apple butter: Adds a deep, spiced sweetness that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
- ¼ cup packed dark brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness with a hint of molasses for depth.
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger: Gives a subtle, warm spice note to brighten the filling.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Classic fall spice that infuses the pie with comforting fragrance.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a bit of nutty warmth and complexity.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances all the sweetness and spices perfectly.
- 3 eggs, lightly beaten: The binding agent that helps the pie’s custard set beautifully.
- 1 cup evaporated milk: Adds a creamy texture without making the filling too runny.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Used in the streusel topping for that irresistible crumbly richness.
- ½ cup flour: Combines with butter and sugar to create the perfect streusel crumb.
- ½ cup dark brown sugar: Sweetens the streusel and gives it that lovely chewy texture.
- ½ cup chopped pecans: Offers a toasty crunch that makes the topping unforgettable.
How to Make Apple Butter Pumpkin Pie with Streusel Topping Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your oven is at just the right temperature to bake the pie evenly and develop that beautiful golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust
Take your refrigerated pie crust and place it gently into a 9-inch glass pie pan. Flute the edges for a decorative touch and to help the crust hold its shape as it bakes.
Step 3: Mix the Pumpkin Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, apple butter, dark brown sugar, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, eggs, and evaporated milk. Blend until completely smooth for a silky filling that’s bursting with autumn flavors.
Step 4: Make the Streusel Topping
Combine the brown sugar and flour in a bowl. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture becomes crumbly. Stir in the chopped pecans last—you’ll want to keep their texture intact for that perfect topping crunch.
Step 5: Bake the Filling
Pour the luscious pumpkin and apple butter filling into your crust-lined pan. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a knife inserted about two inches from the center comes out clean. This step guarantees that custard-like texture we all love.
Step 6: Add the Streusel Topping
Once the pie comes out of the oven, evenly sprinkle your pecan streusel over the warm pumpkin filling. This contrast of hot filling and cool topping transforms the pie into a masterpiece.
Step 7: Final Baking Touch
Cover the edges of your crust with foil to prevent burning from the additional heat. Then return the pie to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes. This final baking melds the topping with the filling, creating the perfect harmony.
Step 8: Cooling Time
After baking, allow your pie to cool completely for at least two hours. This waiting period lets the custard set fully and the streusel firm up, so every slice holds its shape with that lovely contrast of creamy and crunchy.
How to Serve Apple Butter Pumpkin Pie with Streusel Topping Recipe
Garnishes
One of my favorite ways to top this pie is with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream lightly dusted with cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce for some extra indulgence. These garnishes highlight the warm spices and add an elegant touch.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs beautifully with a cup of hot spiced cider or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side, balancing the warm spices with cool creaminess. It’s also fantastic when served alongside roasted chestnuts or a simple green salad for a fuller fall-themed dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive gathering, try serving your pie slices on rustic wooden boards with sprigs of fresh rosemary or cinnamon sticks for decoration. If you’re feeling playful, turn leftovers into mini parfaits layered with granola and spiced nuts—witness the magic of Apple Butter Pumpkin Pie with Streusel Topping Recipe from a whole new angle!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, cover your pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making it an ideal choice for entertaining ahead of time or enjoying a couple of days later.
Freezing
If you want to make this Apple Butter Pumpkin Pie with Streusel Topping Recipe even more convenient, you can freeze it after baking and cooling. Wrap it securely in foil and place it in the freezer for up to two months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
To revive that just-baked warmth, reheat pie slices gently in a 300°F oven for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as you want to maintain the crispness of the streusel topping, keeping the textures just right.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated crust?
Absolutely! Homemade pie crust can add a wonderful personal touch and even more flakiness, but the refrigerated kind is a great shortcut that works perfectly for this recipe without compromising flavor.
Is it okay to substitute apple butter with applesauce?
While you can use applesauce, apple butter gives a richer, more concentrated sweetness and depth that really makes this pie special. If you use applesauce, consider reducing other liquid ingredients slightly to maintain the right texture.
Can I make the streusel topping nut-free?
Yes! Simply omit the chopped pecans and increase the flour slightly to keep the crumbly texture. You could also add oats or coconut flakes for some extra crunch and flavor.
What’s the best way to know when the pie is done baking?
The most reliable test is inserting a knife or toothpick about two inches from the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your pie is ready. The center should still have a slight jiggle, as it will continue to set as it cools.
Can I double this recipe for a larger gathering?
Definitely! You can make two pies using this Apple Butter Pumpkin Pie with Streusel Topping Recipe. Just bake them separately to ensure even cooking, or adjust baking times slightly if using larger pans.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Apple Butter Pumpkin Pie with Streusel Topping Recipe is one of those dishes that brings instant happiness with its cozy, spiced flavors and irresistible textures. Whether it becomes your holiday staple or your weekend luxury, every bite reminds you why pie is such a beloved classic. I can’t wait for you to make it and share it with those you care about most.
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Apple Butter Pumpkin Pie with Streusel Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes plus at least 2 hours cooling
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Apple Butter Pumpkin Pie with Streusel Topping is a delightful twist on the classic pumpkin pie. It combines smooth pumpkin puree and sweet apple butter with warm spices and a crumbly pecan streusel topping for added texture and flavor. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy fall desserts, this pie offers a rich, creamy custard filling with a crunchy nutty topping that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 Pillsbury refrigerated pie crust
Pie Filling
- 1 cup solid pack 100% pumpkin (pumpkin puree)
- 1 cup apple butter
- ¼ cup packed dark brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup evaporated milk
Streusel Topping
- 3 tablespoons butter (cold)
- ½ cup flour
- ½ cup dark brown sugar
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the pie and the streusel topping.
- Prepare Pie Crust: Place the refrigerated pie crust into a 9-inch glass pie pan and flute the edges to give it a decorative finish.
- Mix Pie Filling: In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, apple butter, dark brown sugar, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, lightly beaten eggs, and evaporated milk. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Make Streusel Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar and flour. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture becomes crumbly. Stir in the chopped pecans, then set the streusel aside.
- Bake Pie Filling: Pour the pumpkin filling into the crust-lined pie pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a knife inserted about two inches from the center comes out clean, indicating the filling is set.
- Add Streusel Topping: Remove the pie from the oven and evenly sprinkle the prepared streusel topping over the filling surface.
- Finish Baking with Streusel: Cover the pie crust edges with foil to prevent burning. Return the pie to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the streusel to brown nicely.
- Cool the Pie: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely for at least 2 hours. This cooling time helps the custard filling set perfectly and makes slicing easier.
Notes
- Make sure the butter for the streusel topping is cold to achieve the ideal crumbly texture.
- Use a glass pie pan to monitor crust browning easily.
- Covering the pie crust edges with foil prevents over-browning during the final bake.
- Allow pie to cool fully before slicing to ensure clean cuts and the filling stays intact.
- Can be served chilled or at room temperature.
- Store leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
