Homemade Apple Pie Filling Recipe

Introduction

Homemade apple pie filling is a delicious, versatile treat that captures the essence of fresh apples and warm spices. Perfect for pies, tarts, or even as a topping, this filling is easy to make and brings comforting flavors to any dessert.

Ingredients

• 9 cups fresh apples, peeled, cored, and chopped into uniform sizes
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 cups white sugar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon coarse sea salt
• 4 cups water

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, toss the peeled, cored, and chopped apples with the lemon juice to prevent browning. Set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large Dutch oven or saucepan, combine white sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sea salt. Stir in 4 cups of water and bring the mixture to a low simmer.
3. Step 3: Add the prepared apples to the saucepan. Cover and cook for 6 to 10 minutes, depending on apple size, until the apples are fork-tender and the sauce has thickened.
4. Step 4: Remove from heat and allow the apple pie filling to cool completely.
5. Step 5: Use the filling immediately in your favorite recipes or store it by canning or freezing for later use.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of ground cloves.
• Use a mixture of sweet and tart apples like Fuji and Granny Smith for balanced flavor and texture.
• If you prefer a chunkier texture, cut apples into larger pieces and reduce cooking time accordingly.

Storage

Store cooled apple pie filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the filling in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen apples instead of fresh?

While fresh apples provide the best texture, frozen apples can be used if thawed and drained well, though the filling may be slightly softer.

Is it possible to make the filling with less sugar?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar to suit your taste, but keep in mind the filling may be less sweet and the texture slightly different due to sugar’s impact on thickening and flavor balance.

Homemade Apple Pie Filling Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 64 reviews

• Author: Lana
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes including cooling
• Yield: 5 servings 1x

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Description

This Homemade Apple Pie Filling recipe offers a delicious and simple way to prepare a classic pie filling from fresh apples. With a blend of sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of lemon juice to keep the apples fresh and vibrant, this filling can be used immediately for pies or preserved by canning or freezing for later use. Perfect for creating traditional apple desserts with a homemade touch.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fruit

• 9 cups fresh apples, peeled, cored, and chopped into uniform sizes
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Dry Ingredients

• 3 cups white sugar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon coarse sea salt

Liquids

• 4 cups water

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Instructions

1. Prepare Apples: In a large bowl, toss the peeled, cored, and chopped 9 cups of fresh apples with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. This step prevents the apples from browning and keeps them fresh.
2. Mix Sugars and Spices: In a large Dutch oven or saucepan, combine 3 cups of white sugar, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1/2 cup cornstarch, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon coarse sea salt. Add 4 cups of water and bring the mixture to a low simmer, stirring frequently to prevent lumps.
3. Cook Apples: Stir in the prepared apples into the simmering mixture. Cover and cook for 6-10 minutes depending on the size of the apple pieces—bite-sized pieces take about 6 minutes, while larger slices need up to 10 minutes. The apples should be fork-tender, and the sauce should have thickened.
4. Cool Filling: Remove the pot from heat and allow the apple pie filling to cool completely before using.
5. Store or Use: Use the cooled pie filling immediately in your favorite recipes, or preserve it by canning or freezing for future use.
6. Share Your Experience: If you try this recipe, consider leaving a comment or rating to share your feedback.

Notes

• Using lemon juice not only prevents browning but also adds a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
• Ensure apples are chopped uniformly for even cooking.
• The cooking time may vary based on the size and type of apples used; adjust accordingly.
• This filling can be canned using proper sterilizing methods or frozen for several months.
• If thicker filling is desired, slightly increase the cornstarch but be cautious to avoid making it too gelatinous.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Apple Pie Filling, Homemade Pie Filling, Apple Dessert, Easy Apple Filling, Pie Filling Recipe