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The Best Quick & Easy Homemade Apple Pie Filling (Stovetop Method for Perfect Thickness)

A spoonful of rich, spiced apple pie filling being lifted above a small serving on a white plate.
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Make the best apple pie filling from scratch using this quick stovetop method. This recipe guarantees tender apples in a thick, perfectly spiced cinnamon-vanilla sauce, avoiding watery results. It is ideal for pies, crisps, or as a topping.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt in a large saucepan. Toss gently to coat the apples evenly.
  2. Cook the apple mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples begin to soften slightly and release their juices, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth to create a slurry.
  4. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the apple mixture. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens significantly, about 1 to 2 minutes. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the butter and vanilla extract until the butter is melted and fully incorporated.
  6. Let the homemade apple pie filling cool for at least 20 minutes before using it in your pie crust or dessert. This cooling step helps the filling set further.

Notes

  • For a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch to 3 tablespoons.
  • Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor balance in your spiced apple filling.
  • This versatile filling works well as an apple crisp filling or a topping for pancakes.
  • If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute half of the granulated sugar with more brown sugar.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://gourmetgaze.com/apple-pie-filling-quick-easy-homemade-recipe/