Homemade Apple Pie Filling Recipe

Are you ready to capture the essence of fall in a jar? Look no further than this delightful recipe for Canning Apple Pie Filling. Transforming crisp Granny Smith apples into a luscious and perfectly spiced filling, this recipe is a must-try for any food enthusiast. The secret ingredient, Clear Jel, ensures the ideal consistency while allowing those beloved apple flavors to shine through.

As you embark on this culinary adventure, imagine the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg filling your kitchen, reminiscent of cozy autumn days. With each jar of this homemade apple pie filling, you are preserving not just the harvest but also the comforting flavors of the season. Whether used in classic pies or as a versatile topping, this filling is a pantry essential that promises to elevate your desserts with its unmatched taste and quality.

Experience the satisfaction of hearing the lids pop as you seal in the goodness of your homemade apple pie filling. With careful attention to detail and adherence to safety measures, you’ll soon have jars of delectable filling ready to enhance your culinary creations. Embrace the joy of preserving the flavors of fall and savor the convenience of having this delectable filling at your fingertips for all your baking endeavors.

Quick Benefits

• Long shelf life: Properly canned, this apple pie filling can last over a year in your pantry, ensuring you always have a delicious dessert option on hand.
• Customizable spices: You can control the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg to suit your taste preferences, making each jar perfectly tailored to your liking.
• Convenient and versatile: Use this filling for traditional pies, as a topping for pancakes, or even as an ice cream topping, providing you with quick and easy homemade dessert options at any time.
• Preserves apple texture: The firm Granny Smith apples hold their shape beautifully during canning, ensuring a pleasing texture in your pies and desserts.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Apple Pie Filling Recipe Recipe

• Capture the Cozy Flavors of Fall: This recipe allows you to preserve the essence of autumn in a jar, reminiscent of apple-picking season.
• Perfect Texture and Aroma: The Clear Jel creates a flawless consistency while the cinnamon and nutmeg infuse the filling with a delightful aroma that will fill your kitchen.
• Convenient Pantry Staple: Having these jars ready in your pantry means you’re just a step away from a homemade dessert whenever the mood strikes.
• Versatile Usage: From traditional pies to pancake toppings, this apple pie filling can be used in various ways to elevate your dishes.
• Long Shelf Life: Properly canned, this filling can last over a year in your pantry, ensuring you always have a sweet treat on hand.
• Customizable Spice Levels: You have full control over the amount of spice added, allowing you to tailor the filling to your personal taste preferences.
• Quality Ingredients: Using firm Granny Smith apples, clear jel for thickening, quality apple juice, and a touch of lemon juice ensures a fresh and flavorful end product.
• Detailed Instructions: The recipe provides clear steps for preparing, canning, and storing the filling, ensuring your jars turn out perfect every time.
• Homemade Desserts Made Easy: With this filling on hand, you can quickly whip up a homemade pie or dessert, adding that special touch to your meals without the hassle.

Ingredients for Homemade Apple Pie Filling Recipe

• 8 cups apple juice (or water).
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon.
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice.
• 4 1/2 cups granulated sugar.
• 1 teaspoon salt.
• 1 1/2 cups clear-jel.
• 7 quart jars with lids and rings.
• 8 pounds Granny Smith apples.

Pro Tips for Homemade Apple Pie Filling Recipe

Start by selecting firm Granny Smith apples for this recipe, as they hold their shape well during canning. Ensure to peel and slice the apples evenly for consistent cooking. When making the syrup, use Clear Jel as the thickener since it is safe for canning and ensures a perfect texture. Additionally, be sure to pack the jars full to minimize air spaces and improve preservation.

When processing the jars, follow the proper canning method, either using a pressure canner or water bath, for safe and shelf-stable results. After the jars have cooled, always check the seals to ensure they are properly sealed and do not flex in the middle. By following these tips and steps carefully, you’ll have delicious apple pie filling ready for a variety of desserts throughout the year.

How to Make Homemade Apple Pie Filling Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Peel, core, and cut apples into preferred size.

Step 2: Step 02

Combine juice, sugar, Clear-jel, cinnamon, lemon juice, salt, and nutmeg in a large pot. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until thickened.

Step 3: Step 03

Option 1: Mix apples with syrup and fill jars. Option 2: Pack jars with apples, then pour syrup over them. Ensure there is a 1-inch headspace.

Step 4: Step 04

Wipe jar rims, place hot lids and rings. Pressure can at 10 pounds pressure for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Step 05

Allow pressure to naturally release to zero. Remove jars and let them cool for 12-24 hours until sealed.

Storage Tips

Once you have finished canning the apple pie filling, it is important to store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cupboard. Make sure the jars are kept away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations to maintain the quality of the filling. Properly sealed jars can be stored for up to a year, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of fall anytime you crave a delicious homemade dessert.

Remember to label each jar with the date it was canned to keep track of freshness. Before using the apple pie filling, always inspect the jar for any signs of spoilage such as mold, off smells, or strange textures. If the seal is broken or the filling looks questionable, it is best to discard it to ensure your safety. With these storage tips in mind, you can have a convenient supply of apple pie filling on hand for various sweet treats throughout the year.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those looking to make adjustments to this canning apple pie filling recipe, consider swapping the Granny Smith apples for a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples for a slightly sweeter flavor profile. Additionally, if you prefer a less sweet option, you can reduce the amount of granulated sugar or opt for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

If you don’t have clear jel on hand, you can substitute it with instant tapioca or cornstarch as a thickening agent. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, but it will still provide the desired consistency for your apple pie filling. Lastly, if you want to add a twist to the flavor profile, consider adding a dash of cardamom or ginger along with the cinnamon and nutmeg for a unique and aromatic touch to your homemade apple pie filling.

Serving Suggestions

Transform your morning routine with a dollop of this homemade apple pie filling on top of fluffy pancakes or waffles. The warm cinnamon and nutmeg flavors will make breakfast feel like a special treat every day.

For a cozy dessert, use this canned apple pie filling to create individual apple crumbles or cobblers. Simply top the filling with a buttery oat crumble and bake until golden brown and bubbling. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate fall dessert experience.

FAQs for Homemade Apple Pie Filling Recipe

Can I substitute the Granny Smith apples with a different variety?

It’s recommended to use firm varieties like Granny Smith or Braeburn for this recipe as they hold up well during canning and provide a good balance of tartness and sweetness.

Why is Clear Jel necessary for this recipe?

Clear Jel is the only thickener that is safe for canning as it does not break down during the canning process. It helps create the perfect texture for the apple pie filling and ensures it stays thickened over time.

How long can the canned apple pie filling last in the pantry?

When properly canned and stored in a cool, dark place, the apple pie filling can last for over a year. Always check the seals on the jars after they cool to ensure they are properly preserved.

Can I skip the water bath or pressure canner step?

To ensure safe preservation and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, it’s important to process the jars in a water bath or pressure canner according to the recipe instructions. Skipping this step can lead to spoilage and is not recommended.

Conclusion

Canning Apple Pie Filling truly is a labor of love and the rewards are so worth it. The process of filling those jars and hearing the satisfying pop of the lids is incredibly fulfilling. Knowing that you have homemade apple pie filling ready to go at any time is such a comforting feeling.

So, gather your ingredients, set aside a bit of time, and immerse yourself in the process of canning apple pie filling. The aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg filling your kitchen, the sound of apples simmering in the syrup, the sight of those jars neatly lined up – it all combines to create a truly special experience. Embrace the tradition, share the love, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Happy canning, and may your pantry be filled with delicious possibilities!

Homemade Apple Pie Filling Recipe

“Canning Apple Pie Filling: Capture the essence of fall in a jar with perfect texture and spice, ready for cozy pies and desserts year-round.”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time30 Minutes

Cook Time40 Minutes

Total Time70 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelDifficult

Servings7 Servings (7 quarts)

Ingredients

• 8 cups apple juice (or water).
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon.
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice.
• 4 1/2 cups granulated sugar.
• 1 teaspoon salt.
• 1 1/2 cups clear-jel.
• 7 quart jars with lids and rings.
• 8 pounds Granny Smith apples.

Instructions

1. Step 01: Peel, core, and cut apples into preferred size.
2. Step 02: Combine juice, sugar, Clear-jel, cinnamon, lemon juice, salt, and nutmeg in a large pot. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
3. Step 03: Option 1: Mix apples with syrup and fill jars. Option 2: Pack jars with apples, then pour syrup over them. Ensure there is a 1-inch headspace.
4. Step 04: Wipe jar rims, place hot lids and rings. Pressure can at 10 pounds pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Step 05: Allow pressure to naturally release to zero. Remove jars and let them cool for 12-24 hours until sealed.