Description
Warm, cozy, and irresistibly spiced, this Best Apple Pie Filling is a quick and easy recipe that transforms any dessert into a comforting classic. With perfectly tender apple slices simmered in a cinnamon-brown sugar glaze, it’s ideal for pies, crisps, turnovers, or even a sweet topping for breakfast ideas like oatmeal or pancakes. Whether you’re prepping an easy dinner dessert or stocking up your freezer with a healthy snack component, this apple filling is a must-have in your homemade food ideas list. It’s freezer-friendly, make-ahead approved, and far more flavorful than anything from a can.
Ingredients
6 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 cups water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions
1. Wash, peel, core, and slice the apples into 1/4-inch slices. Toss them with lemon juice in a bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large saucepan over medium heat, whisk the water and dry mixture together until smooth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in the sliced apples. Reduce heat and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring gently until the apples soften slightly.
5. Add the vanilla extract and optional butter. Cook for 1–2 more minutes and remove from heat.
6. Let the filling cool completely before using or storing in airtight containers.
Notes
Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best texture and flavor balance.
Let the filling rest before use to allow flavors to develop further.
To freeze, store in freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert Filling
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: apple pie filling, easy recipe, fall desserts, breakfast ideas, dinner ideas, healthy snack