Easy Apple Pie Filling for Canning

I’ll be honest and the first time I tried making Apple Pie Filling it didn’t go the way I hoped because the apples turned mushy and the sauce went too thick and I remember thinking “Well this sure doesn’t look like Grandma’s pie” yet I still ate it anyway because sugar with apples is always tasty.

But then I didn’t quit and after a few more tries I figured out the little tricks that make Apple Pie Filling come out just right and one of them was not cooking the apples too long and another was trusting the sauce even if it looked thin because it thickens as it cools and when it finally worked I felt so proud and couldn’t stop smiling because it tasted amazing.

And now every single time I make apple pie filling, I think back to that first messy attempt and it makes me laugh because those small imperfections are part of real cooking and nobody nails it the first time and honestly the mistakes make the story sweeter and so if you’re worried about getting it wrong, don’t be because this recipe feels like a warm hug waiting for you in the kitchen.

ingredients

• 6 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 6 medium apples)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

ingredients notes

• Apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for best flavor.
• Sugars: Granulated sugar sweetens, while brown sugar adds a caramel-like depth.
• Lemon juice: Keeps apples from browning and adds a little tang.
• Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg make it taste like cozy fall.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the filling so it isn’t too runny.
• Vanilla: Adds extra warmth and sweetness to the flavor.

How to make Apple Pie Filling?

step 1: prepare the apples

Peel, core, and chop the apples into small even pieces. This helps them cook evenly and makes a smooth, tasty filling.

step 2: mix sugars and spices

In a medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir well so everything is mixed together.

step 3: cook the apples

In a large saucepan, add chopped apples, lemon juice, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the apples start to soften.

step 4: thicken the filling

Mix cornstarch with a little cold water to make a slurry. Add it to the apples and stir constantly until the mixture thickens.

step 5: add vanilla

Once the filling is thick and bubbly, remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. This gives it a rich, warm flavor.

step 6: cool and store

Let the apple pie filling cool to room temperature. Use it immediately for pies or store in an airtight container in the fridge.

kitchen equipment needed

• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Medium bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Small bowl for cornstarch slurry
• Airtight container for storage

storage options!

You can store apple pie filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. It keeps the flavor fresh and is ready to use anytime. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months by placing the cooled filling in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before using.

variations!

Apple pie filling can be customized in many ways. Add a pinch of cloves or ginger for extra spice, or mix in chopped pears for a sweeter variation. You can also make it sugar-free using a sugar substitute, or add caramel for a rich, decadent twist. For a kid-friendly version, keep the spices mild and focus on the sweetness of the apples.

what to enjoy with Apple Pie Filling?

You know when you open your fridge and see apples staring at you and you wonder what on earth to do with them because you forgot to plan dinner but then you remember, “Hey, I can make apple pie filling.”

Suddenly everything felt warm and homey and I thought, “Hmm, what can I eat this with?” and then it hit me: I love it with some Southern Squash Casserole and also it’s amazing on pancakes and waffles and over oatmeal and even stirred into yogurt and oh, you can spoon it on ice cream or maybe just eat it straight from the pot because sometimes you need that kind of happiness in your life.

tips for making the best apple pie filling

• Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor and texture.
• Cut apples evenly so they cook at the same rate.
• Stir frequently to prevent sticking and burning.
• Add cornstarch gradually to avoid lumps.
• Taste and adjust sugar and spices to your preference.
• Cool completely before storing to keep the texture perfect.
• Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for a brighter flavor.

FAQ

what is apple pie filling made of?

It’s made of apples, sugar, lemon juice, spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, cornstarch, and vanilla extract.

what does apple pie filling taste like?

It tastes sweet, slightly tangy from the lemon, warmly spiced, and soft with a little texture from the apples.

can i use any type of apples?

Yes, but a mix of tart and sweet apples works best for flavor and texture.

how long does it take to make?

About 25–30 minutes including prep and cooking time.

can kids eat apple pie filling?

Yes, it’s soft, sweet, and easy to eat.

can i freeze apple pie filling?

Yes, up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.

can i use it for other desserts?

Yes, it works in pies, tarts, muffins, pancakes, waffles, and more.

is it better to use brown sugar or white sugar?

Using both gives the best flavor—white sugar for sweetness and brown sugar for a rich, caramel taste.

can i make it sugar-free?

Yes, use a sugar substitute or reduce sugar to taste.

should i peel the apples?

Yes, peeling makes a smoother filling but you can leave some skin for texture.

can i add extra spices?

Yes, a pinch of cloves, ginger, or allspice adds extra warmth.

how do I store leftover filling?

In an airtight container in the fridge for a week or freeze it for longer storage.