Apple Pie Filling Recipe
Apple Pie Filling Recipe
Table of Contents
Apple Pie Filling Recipe
Looking for the best apple pie filling recipe? Look no further! This homemade apple pie filling is simple, delicious, and the perfect base for your apple pie. Whether you’re making a classic apple pie or experimenting with a new twist, this apple pie filling is sure to elevate your dessert to the next level.
Description
Apple pie is a classic American dessert, beloved for its sweet, cinnamon spiced filling encased in a buttery, flaky crust. But what really makes an apple pie unforgettable is the filling. This apple pie filling recipe uses fresh, juicy apples that are cooked with sugar, cinnamon, and a touch of lemon juice for a perfectly balanced, tender, and flavorful mixture.
This homemade filling is versatile enough to be used in a variety of desserts whether you’re crafting a traditional apple pie, apple crisps, turnovers, or even using it as a topping for ice cream. The key to a great apple pie filling is the right balance of sweet and tart apples, along with the ideal cooking technique to keep the apples tender without turning them mushy. Our apple pie filling recipe ensures that you get a filling that holds up well when baked but retains just the right amount of juiciness and flavor.
The beauty of this apple pie filling recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few key ingredients, you can create an amazing filling that will have your family and guests asking for more. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and results guaranteed to impress.
Apple pie filling Recipe is also a great make ahead option. You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator or even freeze it for future use, making it the perfect option for busy bakers or those who want to have everything ready ahead of time. Once you’re ready to bake your pie, simply pour the filling into your pie crust, top it off with a second layer of crust, and bake.
Ingredients
- 6-7 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of tartness and sweetness)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 tbsp butter (for richness and flavor)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice your apples into even thin slices. You want them to be about 1/4-inch thick to ensure they cook evenly. Set them aside in a large bowl.
- Make the Filling Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients until well combined.
- Cook the Filling: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, until they start to soften.
- Add the Sugar and Spices: Sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture over the apples, then add the lemon juice. Stir everything together, making sure the apples are evenly coated with the sugar mixture. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the juices to thicken and the apples to become tender.
- Finish and Cool: Remove the apple pie filling from the heat, and stir in the vanilla extract if desired. Allow the filling to cool slightly before using it in your pie or storing it for later.
- Assemble the Pie: Once your filling is ready, use it to fill your prepared pie crust. Add a top layer of crust (or crumble topping), then bake the pie according to your recipe instructions, usually at 375°F for 45-50 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
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Apple Pie Filling Recipe
Ingredients
- 6-7 medium apples preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of tartness and sweetness
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp cornstarch for thickening
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract optional, for added flavor
- 1 tbsp butter for richness and flavor
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice your apples into even thin slices. You want them to be about 1/4-inch thick to ensure they cook evenly. Set them aside in a large bowl.
- Make the Filling Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients until well combined.
- Cook the Filling: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, until they start to soften.
- Add the Sugar and Spices: Sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture over the apples, then add the lemon juice. Stir everything together, making sure the apples are evenly coated with the sugar mixture. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the juices to thicken and the apples to become tender.
- Finish and Cool: Remove the apple pie filling from the heat, and stir in the vanilla extract if desired. Allow the filling to cool slightly before using it in your pie or storing it for later.
- Assemble the Pie: Once your filling is ready, use it to fill your prepared pie crust. Add a top layer of crust (or crumble topping), then bake the pie according to your recipe instructions, usually at 375°F for 45-50 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
Notes
- Apple Variety: Choosing the right apples is essential for the best apple pie filling. A mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, offers a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- Thickening Tip: If you prefer a thicker filling, you can increase the amount of cornstarch to 1.5 tablespoons, or use flour or instant tapioca as alternatives.
- Make Ahead: This filling can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before storing.
- Flavor Variations: Try adding a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for an extra flavor boost, or use maple syrup instead of some of the granulated sugar for a richer taste.
- For a Vegan Option: Simply replace the butter with a vegan butter alternative or skip it altogether. The filling will still turn out delicious!
