Print

Apple Pie Filling

Glass jars filled with homemade Apple Pie Filling made from tender, spiced apple slices and syrupy cinnamon glaze.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This homemade apple pie filling is rich, flavorful, and easy to make with fresh apples, cinnamon, butter, and brown sugar. Perfect for pies, desserts, or as a topping, it’s freezer-friendly and much better than the canned version.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 cups
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 8 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (3 pounds / 1.35kg)
  • 1/3 cup lemon juice (80mL)
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar (133g)
  • 2/3 cup brown sugar, light or dark (140g)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (113g)
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 6 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup water (120mL)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice.
  2. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon, then toss to combine.
  3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
  4. Add the apples and cook, stirring, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer (about 2 minutes).
  5. Cover, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook until the apples soften and release most of their juices (about 7 minutes).
  6. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to make a slurry.
  7. Add the cornstarch slurry to the apples and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens.
  8. Remove from heat and let cool completely before storing or using.

Notes

  • Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor.
  • Always cool filling before adding to pie crust to avoid soggy bottoms.
  • Freeze in flat, freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently over medium-low heat with a splash of water if needed.
  • Try adding vanilla or warm spices like nutmeg for variation.