Apple Pie Filling: Master Recipe and 10 Ways to Use It

Recipe Overview

A well-made apple pie filling is a versatile kitchen staple that can transform ordinary desserts into extraordinary treats. This master recipe creates a perfectly balanced filling that’s neither too sweet nor too tart, with apples that hold their shape while remaining tender. Whether you’re planning to can it for later use or use it immediately, this filling adapts beautifully to various desserts and breakfast dishes.

The secret lies in choosing the right apple varieties and achieving the perfect balance of spices. This recipe can be scaled up for canning or made in smaller batches for immediate use, making it a valuable addition to your recipe collection.

Master Apple Pie Filling Recipe

Ingredients

For a Basic Batch (Makes about 6 cups):

• 8 cups apples: peeled, cored, and sliced ¼-inch thick
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons butter (omit if canning)

For Canning Version (Makes 4 quart jars):

• 18 cups apples: peeled, cored, and sliced
• 4½ cups sugar
• 1 cup ClearJel® (not cornstarch)
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 5 cups water
• 1 cup lemon juice

Basic Instructions

1. Prepare Apples

   • Peel, core, and slice apples
   • Toss with lemon juice to prevent browning
   • Set aside while preparing syrup

2. Make Syrup

   • Combine sugars, cornstarch, spices, and salt
   • Whisk in water
   • Cook until thickened and bubbly
   • Add butter if using immediately

3. Cook Filling

   • Add apples to syrup
   • Simmer 10-12 minutes until tender
   • Cool completely if storing

Canning Instructions

1. Prepare water bath canner and sterilize jars
2. Make filling using ClearJel® instead of cornstarch
3. Pack hot filling into hot jars
4. Process quarts 25 minutes at proper altitude
5. Cool completely before storing

10 Creative Uses for Apple Pie Filling

1. Quick Apple Turnovers

• Thaw puff pastry sheets
• Cut into squares
• Fill, fold, crimp edges
• Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes

2. Apple Pie Parfaits

• Layer with:
  • Vanilla yogurt
  • Granola
  • Whipped cream
  • Caramel sauce

3. Apple Pie French Toast

• Spread between bread slices
• Dip in egg mixture
• Cook until golden
• Top with maple syrup

4. Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars

• Press graham cracker crust
• Pour cheesecake batter
• Top with filling
• Bake, cool, slice

5. Apple Hand Pies

• Use pie crust circles
• Fill center
• Crimp edges
• Bake until golden

6. Apple Pie Ice Cream Topping

• Warm filling slightly
• Spoon over vanilla ice cream
• Add caramel sauce
• Sprinkle with nuts

7. Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

• Spread on dough
• Roll, slice
• Bake as directed
• Drizzle with glaze

8. Apple Pie Trifle

• Layer with:
  • Pound cake cubes
  • Custard
  • Whipped cream
  • Caramel drizzle

9. Apple Pie Oatmeal

• Stir into hot oatmeal
• Add milk
• Top with nuts
• Drizzle with honey

10. Apple Pie Empanadas

• Fill empanada dough
• Seal edges
• Brush with egg wash
• Bake until golden

Pro Tips

• Use firm apple varieties
• Cut uniform slices for even cooking
• Adjust spices to taste
• Test thickness before canning
• Cool completely before storing

Storage Guidelines

• Refrigerator: 1-2 weeks
• Freezer: up to 6 months
• Canned: 12-18 months
• Room temperature: use same day
• Always check seals on canned jars

Troubleshooting

Common Issues

1. Runny Filling

   • Use correct thickener amount
   • Cook until properly thickened
   • Cool completely

2. Mushy Apples

   • Don’t overcook
   • Use firm apple varieties
   • Cut uniform sizes

3. Cloudy Canned Filling

   • Use ClearJel® for canning
   • Follow proper processing times
   • Use filtered water

Best Apple Varieties

• Granny Smith: tart, firm
• Honeycrisp: sweet, crisp
• Pink Lady: balanced flavor
• Braeburn: holds shape well
• Golden Delicious: naturally sweet

Safety Tips for Canning

• Use tested recipes
• Adjust for altitude
• Check jar seals
• Use proper equipment
• Follow processing times

Whether you’re making a quick dessert or planning to stock your pantry, this versatile apple pie filling recipe provides endless possibilities. The key is in the preparation and proper storage, ensuring you always have this delicious filling ready when inspiration strikes.

Happy baking!