Homemade Canned Apple Pie Filling

Homemade Canned Apple Pie Filling ✨

Nothing beats the warm, comforting aroma of apple pie baking in the oven. But what if you could enjoy that sweet, cinnamon-spiced filling whenever you want? That’s where homemade canned apple pie filling comes in! With just a few ingredients, you can bottle up the taste of autumn, ready to use anytime you need a quick and delicious dessert fix. This recipe is perfect for preserving the flavors of fresh apples, so you can have pie filling on hand all year long.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (about 6-7 medium apples)
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 cup lemon juice (fresh or bottled)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by peeling, coring, and slicing the apples into even pieces. For the best texture, try to cut the apples about 1/4-inch thick. As you slice them, toss the apples in lemon juice to prevent browning and to keep them looking fresh and vibrant.

Step 2: Make the Syrup

In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. These dry ingredients will form the base of your syrup. Next, add in the water and whisk everything together until smooth. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Once the syrup has thickened to a nice consistency, usually within 3-4 minutes, it’s time to add the apples.

Step 3: Add the Apples

Stir the sliced apples into the thickened syrup. Continue to simmer the apple mixture for about 5 minutes, allowing the apples to soften slightly but still hold their shape. The syrup should coat the apples, creating a thick, sweet filling perfect for pies or other desserts.

Step 4: Can the Filling

Now, it’s time to fill your jars! Start by sterilizing the canning jars in a hot water bath or by placing them in the oven on low heat to kill any bacteria. Once the jars are sterilized and hot, ladle the hot apple filling into the jars, leaving about 1/2-inch headspace at the top. This ensures that the jars seal properly. Wipe the rims of the jars clean to ensure a good seal, then top with the lids and screw on the rings.

Step 5: Process the Jars

Place the filled jars in a large pot of boiling water, making sure the water covers the jars by at least an inch. Boil the jars for 20 minutes to process them. This step ensures that the filling is sealed safely and can be stored for long periods without spoiling.

Step 6: Store and Use

Once the jars are processed, carefully remove them from the water and let them cool completely. You should hear a satisfying “pop” as the jars seal. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. When you’re ready to use your apple pie filling, simply open a jar and use it for pies, crisps, or as a sweet topping for pancakes, waffles, or ice cream!

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: Makes 3-4 pints

Tips for Success:

• Apple Variety: Choose a tart apple variety like Granny Smith or a blend of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor and texture. Avoid using apples that are too soft, as they may turn mushy during canning.
• Adjust Sweetness: Depending on the sweetness of your apples, you can adjust the amount of sugar to your liking.
• Canning Equipment: Make sure to use proper canning equipment to ensure safety. A water bath canner is a great tool for processing jars, and it will help preserve your apple pie filling for up to a year.

Conclusion:

Homemade canned apple pie filling is a fantastic way to preserve the flavors of fresh apples. This simple recipe lets you enjoy that warm, comforting taste of apple pie any time you want, without the need for a whole pie-making process. Whether you’re using it for a quick dessert or gifting it to a friend, this apple pie filling will become a pantry staple in no time.