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Homemade Apple Pie Filling

Homemade Apple Pie Filling

This Homemade Apple Pie Filling is perfect for making apple pies, tarts, or enjoying on its own. It’s easy to prepare and great for canning to have on hand for whenever you need a quick dessert fix!

Ingredients

  • 5 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ½ cup water
  • ¾ cup apple juice or apple cider
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice

Directions

1. Prepare the Apples

  • Peel and Slice: Peel, core, and slice the apples.
  • Blanch: Place apple slices in boiling water for 1 minute. Remove and keep hot.

2. Make the Syrup

  • Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, mix together sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  • Add Liquids: Stir in water, apple juice (or apple cider), and lemon juice.
  • Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly until it thickens. Avoid a full boil to prevent over-thickening.

3. Fill the Jars

  • Prepare Jars: Sterilize quart jars and keep them hot.
  • Layer Apples and Syrup: Place the hot apple slices into the jars, alternating with the thickened syrup until jars are almost full.
  • Remove Air Bubbles: Run a knife down the sides of the jars to remove air bubbles.
  • Add More: Add more apples and syrup if needed to fill the jars completely.

4. Process the Jars

  • Boil Water Bath: Place the filled jars in a water bath pan. Ensure the water covers the jars by about 1 inch.
  • Process: Boil for 25 minutes.
  • Cool: Remove jars from the water bath and let them cool completely on a clean towel.
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Tips

  • Apple Variety: Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture.
  • Syrup Thickness: Adjust the thickness of the syrup according to your preference by cooking it longer or shorter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use this filling right away for a pie?

Yes, if you want to use it immediately, simply spoon the hot filling into a pie crust and bake as directed in your pie recipe.

2. How long can I store the canned apple pie filling?

The canned apple pie filling can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.

3. Can I freeze the apple pie filling instead of canning it?

Yes, you can freeze the filling. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 6 months.

Enjoy your Homemade Apple Pie Filling for delicious pies and desserts any time of the year!