Apple Pie Filling Recipe
This homemade apple pie filling recipe transforms crisp Granny Smith apples into a sweet, cinnamon-spiced filling perfect for pies, tarts, or as a flavorful topping. Using simple ingredients like sugar, butter, and lemon juice, the apples are gently cooked and thickened with a cornstarch slurry to achieve a tender yet structured texture. It’s a convenient, delicious way to prepare fresh pie filling that can be stored and used anytime.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: About 4 cups of apple pie filling (enough for one 9-inch pie) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Apple Pie Filling
- 6 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup water
- 3 tablespoons salted butter
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1½ tablespoons lemon juice
- 1½ tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons water (for slurry)
Instructions
- Prepare the Butter: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until fully melted and slightly bubbling, preparing the pan for cooking the apples.
- Add Ingredients to Skillet: Add the sliced apples, ⅓ cup water, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice to the pan. Stir thoroughly to evenly coat the apple slices with the seasonings and liquids.
- Cook the Apples: Cook the apple mixture over medium heat for about 5 to 6 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The apples should become slightly softened but still hold their shape.
- Make the Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water to create a smooth slurry, which will thicken the filling.
- Thicken the Filling: Pour the cornstarch slurry into the skillet with the apples, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the apples are tender and the filling thickens. Avoid overcooking to keep the apple slices intact and not mushy.
- Cool the Filling: Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the apple pie filling to cool completely to room temperature.
- Store the Filling: Transfer the cooled filling into a clean glass jar, such as a mason jar, and seal for storage. Use the filling for pies, desserts, or as a topping as desired.
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples for the best tart flavor and texture that holds up well during cooking.
- Do not overcook the apples after adding the slurry to avoid mushy filling.
- This filling can be refrigerated for up to one week or frozen for longer storage.
- Adjust sugar according to your desired sweetness or substitute with a sugar alternative if preferred.
- Lemon juice helps prevent browning and adds brightness to the flavor.
Keywords: apple pie filling, homemade pie filling, cinnamon apple filling, Granny Smith apples, stovetop apple filling
Find it online: https://dishedbydana.com/apple-pie-filling-recipe/
