Make Delicious Apple Pie Filling to Keep on Hand All Winter Long

Instructions

1. Prepare the Apples

• Peel, core, and slice the apples into ¼-inch thick slices. Granny Smith apples work well because they maintain their texture during cooking, but you can also use a mix of different apple varieties for a balanced flavor.

1. Make the Syrup

• In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Add the water and stir well to combine. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. The mixture will start to thicken and form a smooth syrup.

1. Add the Apples

• Once the syrup has thickened, stir in the sliced apples and lemon juice. Mix well, ensuring the apples are fully coated in the syrup. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the apples have softened but still hold their shape.

1. Add Vanilla (Optional)

• Stir in the vanilla extract for a hint of additional flavor. Taste the filling and adjust the spices or sweetness to your liking.

1. Cool the Filling

• Allow the apple pie filling to cool slightly. If you’re planning to use it immediately, it’s ready to go. Otherwise, you can move on to the preservation step to keep it on hand all winter.

How to Store Apple Pie Filling

• Refrigerating: Transfer the cooled filling into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the apple pie filling. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep for up to six months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
• Canning (for Extended Storage): If you want to store the filling for up to a year, follow a canning process:
• Sterilize canning jars and lids by boiling them.
• Fill the jars with the hot apple pie filling, leaving about ½-inch of headspace.
• Wipe the rims, place the lids on top, and screw on the bands.
• Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 20 minutes.
• Let the jars cool and check the seals. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place.

Tips for the Best Apple Pie Filling

• Choosing the Right Apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a more complex flavor. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great options.
• Avoid Overcooking: Cook the apples just until tender; overcooking will make them mushy and affect the texture of the pie.
• Adjusting Sweetness: You can reduce or increase the sugar depending on how sweet your apples are or your personal taste.

Delicious Ways to Use Apple Pie Filling

• Classic Apple Pie: Use the filling in a traditional pie crust for a homemade apple pie.
• Apple Crisp: Top the filling with a buttery crumb topping and bake for a quick and easy dessert.
• Pancake or Waffle Topping: Warm up the filling and spoon it over pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer the apple pie filling with Greek yogurt and granola for a breakfast treat.
• Over Ice Cream: Serve warm apple pie filling over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Conclusion

Making your own apple pie filling is a great way to enjoy the cozy flavors of apple and cinnamon all winter long. With a simple recipe and proper storage techniques, you’ll have a versatile filling ready for pies, crisps, and more. Give it a try, and your winter desserts will always have that homemade touch.