ADVERTISEMENT
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apples:
Peel, core, and slice your apples into thin, even pieces. Toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine water, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir well until the mixture thickens (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Add the Apples:
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the sliced apples. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and coated in the glossy sauce.
4. Finish with Butter & Vanilla:
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter. The butter adds a rich flavor and makes the filling extra smooth and shiny.
5. Cool & Store:
Let the apple pie filling cool completely before using. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Best Apples for Apple Pie Filling:
The best apple pie filling uses a combination of apples for depth of flavor and texture:
🍏 Granny Smith – Tart and firm (balances sweetness)
🍎 Honeycrisp – Sweet and crisp (adds natural sugar)
🍏 Fuji or Gala – Mildly sweet and soft (adds a nice texture)
🍎 Braeburn – Great balance of tart and sweet
Ways to Use Homemade Apple Pie Filling:
🥧 Classic Apple Pie – Pour into a homemade crust and bake!
🍎 Apple Turnovers – Stuff into puff pastry for an easy treat.
🥞 Pancake or Waffle Topping – A warm, spiced upgrade!
🍦 Ice Cream Topping – Drizzle over vanilla ice cream for a caramel-apple vibe.
🥣 Oatmeal Mix-In – Stir into your morning oats for a fall-inspired breakfast.
🍪 Apple Pie Bars – Use as a filling for dessert bars.
🍰 Cheesecake Swirl – Layer into cheesecake for an apple-cinnamon twist!
Tips for Perfect Apple Pie Filling:
✅ Don’t overcook – The apples should be soft but not mushy.
✅ Use fresh apples – Fresh, firm apples hold their shape best.
✅ Adjust thickness – If it’s too thick, add a splash of water. If too thin, simmer longer.
✅ Double the batch – Store extra filling for easy desserts anytime!
Making homemade apple pie filling is so easy and so much better than anything you can buy in a can. Try this recipe once, and you’ll never go back! 🍏🥧💕
ADVERTISEMENT
