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The Best Homemade Apple Pie Filling Recipe (Quick Stovetop Method)

Close-up of sweet, spiced apple pie filling recipe slices in a small glass bowl by a window.

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Make superior apple pie filling from scratch in just 12 minutes. This quick stovetop apple pie filling uses brown sugar and cinnamon for a thick, flavorful mixture perfect for pies, crisps, or topping pancakes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 medium apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced 1/4-inch thick
  • 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup water

Instructions

  1. Prepare your apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into uniform 1/4-inch thick pieces. Place them in a large bowl.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
  3. Combine: Pour the lemon juice over the apples and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture over the apples and toss again until all slices are evenly coated.
  4. Cook the filling: Place the coated apples in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the water and butter.
  5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring often. Cook for 8 to 12 minutes, or until the apples are slightly tender but still hold their shape, and the sauce has thickened into a glossy glaze. Do not overcook; you want the apples to remain firm for baking.
  6. Cool: Remove the pan from the heat. Allow the apple pie filling to cool completely before placing it into your pie crust or storing it.

Notes

  • For a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the filling during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
  • This homemade apple pie filling freezes well. Cool completely, then store in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
  • Use this sweet spiced apple mixture for apple crisps, tarts, or spoon it warm over waffles for an easy dessert.

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