Homemade Apple Pie Filling
Homemade Apple Pie Filling
Skip the canned version and make this easy Homemade Apple Pie Filling from scratch! Made with fresh apples, warm cinnamon, butter, sugar, and a rich homemade sauce, this classic filling is bursting with cozy fall flavor.
It’s the perfect recipe for apple pie, crisps, cobblers, turnovers, cheesecakes, pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, ice cream, and so much more.
This simple recipe comes together in about 30 minutes and tastes so much better than anything you’ll find at the grocery store. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or preserving fresh apples during the fall, this homemade apple pie filling is a must-have recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Made with fresh apples
- Better than canned pie filling
- Ready in about 30 minutes
- Perfect for pies, crisps, and cobblers
- Freezer-friendly
- Great for holiday baking
- Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
Ingredients
- 8 large apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup water
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
How to Make Homemade Apple Pie Filling
How to Make Homemade Apple Pie Filling
Step 1
Peel, core, and chop the apples into bite-sized pieces. Place the chopped apples into a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot.
Step 2
Sprinkle the granulated sugar and brown sugar evenly over the apples and stir to coat.
Step 3
Add the butter and water to the Dutch oven. Place the pot over medium heat and stir occasionally as the butter melts.
Step 4
Sprinkle the cinnamon, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt over the apples. Stir well until the cornstarch is completely incorporated and no dry pockets remain.
Step 5
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. As the apples cook, they’ll release their juices and combine with the butter, sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch to create a rich, glossy sauce.
Step 6
Continue simmering for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the apples are tender but still hold their shape and the filling has thickened.
Step 7
Remove the Dutch oven from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and lemon juice, if using.
Step 8
Allow the apple pie filling to cool slightly before using it in pies, crisps, cobblers, cheesecakes, turnovers, or as a topping for pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, or vanilla ice cream.
Tips for the Best Apple Pie Filling
- Use a combination of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the apples—they should remain slightly firm.
- Add extra cinnamon if you love a stronger spice flavor.
- Let the filling cool completely before adding it to pie crusts.
- Make a double batch and freeze some for later.
Best Apples for Apple Pie Filling
Some of the best apples include:
- Honeycrisp
- Granny Smith
- Fuji
- Pink Lady
- Gala
- Braeburn
- Jonagold
Mixing two or three varieties creates the best balance of sweetness and tartness.
Ways to Use Homemade Apple Pie Filling
- Apple Pie
- Apple Crisp
- Apple Cobbler
- Apple Turnovers
- Apple Danish
- Cheesecake Topping
- Ice Cream Topping
- Pancakes
- Waffles
- French Toast
- Oatmeal
- Yogurt Parfaits
- Cinnamon Rolls
Storage
Store the cooled apple pie filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can I Freeze It?
Yes! Allow the filling to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this for apple pie?
Absolutely! This filling is perfect for homemade apple pie and fits a standard 9-inch pie crust.
Can I can homemade apple pie filling?
Yes, but if you plan to can it, be sure to use a recipe specifically developed and tested for safe home canning.
Do I have to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for the smoothest texture, but you can leave the peels on if you prefer.
More Apple Recipes You’ll Love
If you love baking with apples, be sure to browse my favorite Apple Pie Recipes, Apple Crisp, Apple Cobbler, Apple Bread, Apple Muffins, Apple Cake, Caramel Apple Desserts, Fall Desserts, and Pumpkin Recipes for even more cozy baking inspiration.
