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Apple Pie Filling

Apple Pie Filling

Homemade Apple Pie Filling bursting with rich, balanced flavors and perfect texture. Made from fresh apples, warm spices, and kitchen staples, this easy-to-make filling is versatile for pies, tarts, turnovers, and more, bringing a warm, comforting delight to every bite.

  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: Filling for one 9-inch apple pie (about 6 cups filling) 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Fruits

  • 6 cups firm and tart apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced about half-inch thick

Sweeteners

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjustable to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Spices

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Liquids & Others

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt (a small pinch)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or arrowroot powder for gluten-free)
  • 1/2 cup water or apple cider
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice your apples into evenly sized pieces about half an inch thick to ensure even cooking and maintain a slight bite.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and cornstarch. This mixture will flavor and thicken the filling.
  3. Toss Apples with Lemon Juice: Sprinkle lemon juice over the sliced apples to prevent browning and keep them crisp, then toss gently to coat evenly.
  4. Combine Apples and Sugar Mixture: Add the apple slices to the dry ingredients and toss until every slice is well-coated, ensuring an even spread of sweet spices and thickener.
  5. Cook the Filling: Place the coated apples in a saucepan over medium heat. Add water or apple cider and stir frequently until the mixture thickens and the apples soften but still maintain their shape, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
  6. Finish with Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract if using. Let the filling cool slightly before using in your pie or storing.

Notes

  • Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to prevent mushy filling and achieve bright, balanced sweetness.
  • Slice apples uniformly to ensure consistent cooking and texture.
  • Adding lemon juice is essential for color retention and adds a subtle zing that enhances the flavor.
  • Stir often while cooking and remove from heat as soon as the filling thickens to avoid overcooking.
  • Taste the apple and sugar mixture before cooking to adjust sweetness according to your preference.
  • For gluten-free thickening, substitute cornstarch with arrowroot powder.
  • Optional variations include adding cloves or allspice for deeper flavor, swapping sugars for natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, mixing in pears or cranberries, or adding a splash of apple brandy or bourbon for a sophisticated twist.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop cooking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 cup
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 0.2g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0.2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 0.3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: apple pie filling, homemade pie filling, apple filling, gluten free apple pie, vegan apple filling, easy apple pie filling, apple dessert filling