Apple Buttermilk Custard Pie

Ingredients:

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 single pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

For the Filling:

• 5 cups (about 2 lbs) apples, peeled and sliced (Granny Smith work well)
• 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons chilled butter, cut into small cubes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish, crimping the edges as desired.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and salt. Toss until the apples are evenly coated, then arrange them in the prepared pie crust.
3. In another mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Pour the custard mixture over the apples in the pie crust, ensuring that the apples are evenly covered.
5. In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the topping. Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
6. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the custard-filled pie.
7. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips, and bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
8. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely before slicing and serving.

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

• Choosing Apples: While Granny Smith apples are a classic choice for pies due to their tartness and firm texture, feel free to experiment with other varieties such as Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Fuji for different flavor profiles and textures.
• Preventing Soggy Crust: To prevent the bottom crust from becoming soggy, you can blind-bake the pie crust before adding the filling. Simply line the unbaked pie crust with parchment paper or foil, fill it with pie weights or dried beans, and bake it in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. Remove the weights and parchment/foil, then continue with the recipe as directed.
• Adjusting Sweetness: Depending on the sweetness of the apples and your personal preference, you can adjust the amount of sugar in the filling and topping. Taste the apples before adding sugar to determine how much sweetness is needed.

Variations to Explore:

1. Caramel Apple: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the pie after baking for a decadent twist on classic apple pie. The rich, buttery flavor of caramel complements the tartness of the apples and adds an extra layer of indulgence.
2. Nutty Crunch: Stir chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts into the topping mixture for added texture and nutty flavor. The crunchy nuts provide a delightful contrast to the creamy custard and tender apples.
3. Spiced Streusel: Add ground spices such as ginger, cloves, or allspice to the topping mixture for a spiced streusel topping that pairs perfectly with the warm flavors of the apple custard pie. The aromatic spices add depth and complexity to the dessert, making it even more irresistible.
4. Citrus Zest: Incorporate finely grated lemon or orange zest into the custard filling for a burst of citrus flavor. The bright, refreshing zest adds a vibrant twist to the rich and creamy custard, balancing out the sweetness of the apples.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of making it from scratch? A: Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust if you’re short on time or prefer the convenience. Simply follow the package instructions for pre-baking, if necessary, before adding the filling and proceeding with the recipe as directed.

Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the pie up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, tightly covered, until ready to bake. Alternatively, you can bake the pie ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, then reheat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes before serving.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover slices of apple custard pie for up to 2-3 months. Wrap the slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place them in an airtight container, before freezing. Thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight before reheating or serving.

Q: Can I use a dairy-free alternative for the buttermilk? A: Yes, you can use a dairy-free alternative such as almond milk or coconut milk combined with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to create a dairy-free “buttermilk” substitute. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes before using it in the recipe.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• Low-Carb Option: To make a low-carb version of Apple Buttermilk Custard Pie, you can use a low-carb pie crust made with almond flour or coconut flour instead of traditional pie crust. Substitute an equal amount of almond flour or coconut flour for the flour called for in the recipe, and use a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in place of granulated sugar in the filling and topping.
• Keto-Friendly Version: For a keto-friendly version, use almond flour or coconut flour for the pie crust and a keto-approved sweetener such as monk fruit extract or erythritol in the filling and topping. You can also add chopped nuts or shredded coconut to the topping for added texture and flavor. Be sure to adjust the ingredients and proportions accordingly to maintain the proper balance of flavors and textures.

In conclusion, Apple Buttermilk Custard Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the best of both worlds: the comforting flavors of apple pie and the creamy richness of buttermilk custard. With its tender apple slices, creamy custard filling, and sweet crumbly topping, this pie is a true indulgence for the senses. Whether enjoyed warm out of the oven or chilled from the refrigerator, it’s sure to bring joy to any gathering or celebration.

So why not treat yourself and your loved ones to the cozy charm of Apple Buttermilk Custard Pie? With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a delightful way to savor the flavors of the season and create lasting memories with those you hold dear. So roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of pure comfort and joy. Happy baking!