How to Make Apple Filling – Easiest Recipe

Homemade apple pie filling is surprisingly simple to make. Once your ingredients are prepped, you throw everything into a pot, walk away, and let it simmer until it’s done. The result that you get is a night and day difference compared to the store-bought canned stuff it’s not even close. And the best part is, there’s not a single preservative and you can customize and tailor the flavor to your exact liking.

Whether you’re crafting a classic apple pie recipe, whipping up turnovers, or topping pancakes, this apple filling adds a rich and flavorful touch that the taste from the canned versions just can’t compare to. But don’t just take my word for it, give it a try and see for yourself. But be warned, you might just start putting it on everything!

Since you are here and love apple recipes, check out this Dutch Apple Pie with Crumb Topping, this Copycat Crumbl Apple Pie Cookies with Oats, or this Easy Dutch Apple Pie Bars Recipe.

Ingredients for this homemade Apple pie filling recipe

Here are the ingredients you will need when learning how to make apple filling. Scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of the page for the detailed ingredient measurements. 

• Apples: are of course the star of the recipe. The type of apple depends on your preference but you will need about four of them. I like using granny smith apples to make sure that I can balance out the sweetness.
• Brown Sugar and Granulated Sugar: sweeten the apple slices while the brown sugar adds a caramel-like flavor. You can also add in some maple syrup in place of the brown sugar for another fun flavor variation. 
• Ground Cinnamon and Nutmeg: infuse the filling with warm and spicy notes that complement the natural apple flavor.
• Butter: creates a rich and silky base that helps meld the flavors together.
• Water: helps cook the apples down and creates the liquid base for the syrup. You could also use apple juice or apple cider for an even stronger apple flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: provides a sweet, fragrant undertone.
• Cornstarch:  helps thicken the sauce to turn it into the most perfect apple pie filling!
• Salt: will balance out the sweetness of your apple filling.

How to make the best Apple pie Filling

This is how you can make this easy apple pie filling. Make sure to scroll down to the recipe card at the end of this post for the full step-by-step instructions! 

1. Peel, core, and cut apples into small, evenly sized pieces.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, stirring to coat the apples evenly.
3. Pour in 2 tablespoons of water and let the mixture cook until the apples are tender but still hold their shape (aka aren’t mushy!). Stir occasionally.
4. Combine 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a cornstarch slurry. Mix it into the apple mixture and continue cooking until the sauce thickens.
5. Take the pan off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the filling to cool slightly before using it in your favorite recipe.

Tips on how to make apple filling even better

• When To Add Cornstarch or Not: You’ll want to add cornstarch if you’re using your apple filling to top a pie crust or puff pastry so the liquid doesn’t make your dough soggy, or even when making an apple cobbler. You won’t need it or shouldn’t use it if you’re topping a breakfast dish like pancakes or oatmeal as the liquids will help enhance the texture of the breakfast carb. (unless if you prefer a thicker apple pie filling on top of your yogurt or oatmeal bowls)
• Apple Picking: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honey Crisp, for a balanced flavor.
• Enhance the Flavor: Experiment with different flavors to spice it up a bit. Include a little lemon juice to balance out the sweetness of the sugar. Use other warm spices like cardamom or cloves for a more complex flavor profile.
• Proper Cool Down: Let this easy stovetop apple pie filling completely cool down to room temperature before adding it to a doughy base to avoid making the bottom crust soggy.

Why do you need to make this delicious recipe?

• A homemade version is so much better than store-bought canned filling.
• This easy recipe requires minimal time and effort.
• It can be used for all apple desserts and even some savory recipes as well!
• It’s a great way to use up fresh apples that might be going bad soon.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ

Which kind of apples work best?

Granny Smith apples are the usual choice because of their tart flavor and ability to hold their shape. But you should pair them with a sweet variety like Golden Delicious, Honeycrisp, Red Delicious, Pink Lady, or Gala apples for added complexity and the best apple flavor.

What Can I use this apple filling for?

• The first and foremost use is to make the best apple pie! Nothing compares to a homemade pie filling. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and make a Homemade Pie Dough to make it even better! If a whole apple pie isn’t your thing, make these Mini Apple Hand Pies In A Muffin Tin.
• Use it to make a quick recipe for an apple crisp if you’re short on time.
• Blend it using a food processor or blender to make apple butter.
• Use it as the inner filling for apple turnovers or Apple Donuts.
• Topping nearly any breakfast carb such as pancakes, waffles, French toast, or oatmeal will significantly enhance the flavor of the overall dish.
• It even goes well on pork meats like a grilled ham steak or pork chops.

How do I store my leftover filling?

Making your own filling and storing it in glass jars for later use is the best thing you can do. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for a couple months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before using.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes you sure can! Simply replace the dairy butter with a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or coconut oil.

Can I double the recipe?

Of course! Just be sure to double all of the ingredients accurately, and ensure you have a large pot to cook the filling evenly.

How to Make Apple Filling Recipe

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