Make this simple Apple Pie Filling from scratch with just a few ingredients, on the stovetop. This recipe is quick and easy and makes the best homemade pie filling!
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Why This Recipe Works
In the effort to eliminate any premade, canned products in my kitchen, I switched to homemade pie fillings. I am very happy with the results! This Apple Pie Filling made from scratch with just a few ingredients and pretty much any apples (especially the ones that have bruises or imperfections) is my favorite. Cut them into slices or chunks and simmer in a sugar mixture. It's done in no time!
This filling is not just for a pie. You can use it for so many desserts. Check out my list below.
Ingredients:
- apples: I used gala, but pretty much any kind works
- sugar: brown and granulated
- cornstarch: to thicken the mixture; flour can be used but it will make for a cloudier filling
- spice mix: cinnamon and cloves (add ground ginger if desired)
- lemon juice: to prevent cut apples from browning while you prepare the ingredients
How to make Apple Pie Filling?
- Start by peeling and coring apples. Chop into ½" pieces. You can also slice them thin. After each apple is chopped, drizzle the pieces with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Mix cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water.
- Melt butter in a deep pot. Add sugars, spices, water, and cornstarch mix. Whisk well.
- Add apples and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Lower the heat and simmer until the apples are softer and the mixture thickens.
- Cool completely.
How to use it?
This recipe makes enough apple pie filling for one 9" pie.
If you are looking for ideas outside of a pie, you can use the pie filling to make the following:
- make an Apple Dump Cake
- use it as a topping on Caramel Apple Cheesecake
- It's also a delicious ice cream topping
- use in making hand pies
- in a pastry (think strudel)
- use in a galette
- use as a topping on oatmeal
- use with waffles and pancakes.
What apples are best for making a pie filling?
I used Gala because that's what I had on hand and I love their taste. You can use Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, Honey Crisp, etc.
Recipe FAQs:
I recommend storing this filling in a jar with a lid, in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 2 weeks.
Absolutely! To freeze it, cool it completely after cooking. Place in a freezer-safe container or a ziplock bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw out in a fridge, then use in a recipe.
More apple recipes:
If you like this recipe and make it, let me know in the comments below! Don't forget to rate it if you enjoyed it!
Apple Pie Filling
Ingredients
- 4 cups chopped apples see notes
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 ¼ cup water
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Peel and core apples. Chop into ½″ chunks or ¼" slices. After each apple chopped, place it in a large bowl and drizzle the pieces with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Mix cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water.
- Melt butter in a deep pot. I used 3-quart Dutch oven.
- Add sugars, spices, water and cornstarch mix. Whisk well.
- Add apples and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Stir often.
- Lower the heat and simmer until the apples are softer and the mixture thickens. Stir often.
- Cool completely.
Notes
- Use 4 medium or 6 small apples.
- This recipe makes enough filling for one 9" pie.
- Please note, that the nutrition value can vary depending on what product you use. The information below is an estimate. Always use calorie counter you are familiar with.
Nikki says
I've used this recipe as a topping for my apple pie cupcakes I make for my team at work. It's absolutely delicious and it tastes like apple pie all on its own! Love this recipe!
Heather says
This the best apple pie filling .I use it for pies and turnovers and also danish
Beverly says
How long do I bake the pie and what temp?
Katie says
Do I have to add the cornstarch?
Brigitte says
This is an absolute MUST DO!! Amazing taste and the chunks of apple, oh how juicy! I GIVE IT A 10/10.
Anna says
Thank you so much, Brigitte!
Sierra says
Hello, great recipe! When using flour instead of cornstarch, how would you incorporate that? Thank you in advance! 😊
Fredi says
Can this recipe be canned?
LINDA says
STIR IT IN WITH THE REST OF THE STUFF BEFORE HEATING,, SAME AS YOU WOULD WITH CORNSTARCH...
Natasha says
Amazing apple pie filling recipe. The apples were perfectly cooked and the sauce that we added here made all the difference, it turned out delicious! Thanks a lot for sharing and this is one recipe to keep.
Anna says
Awesome! Thank you, Natasha!
Erin says
Besides apple pie, I can think of so many ways to use this apple pie filling! It's so good and all fresh ingredients!
Anna says
I agree! Thank you, Erin!
Allyson Zea says
I love how simple and easy this recipe is! I am going to use this all the fall! Thank you so much!
Anna says
Thanks, Allyson!