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The Best Stovetop Apple Pie Filling (Quick and Versatile)

Close-up of a white bowl overflowing with glossy, spiced apple pie filling, ready for baking.
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Make this easy homemade apple pie filling on the stovetop. It results in tender apples coated in a glossy, spiced sauce, perfect for pies, crisps, or topping pancakes.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Combine the sliced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice in a large saucepan. Toss gently to coat the apples evenly.
  2. Add the water to the saucepan.
  3. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to bubble and thicken, about 5 to 8 minutes. The apples should be tender-crisp.
  4. Once the filling is thick and glossy, remove the pan from the heat.
  5. Stir in the butter and lemon juice until the butter melts completely into the sauce.
  6. Remove the filling from the heat. Allow it to cool slightly before using it in a pie crust or for other desserts.
  7. For canning, process hot filling immediately in sterilized jars according to safe canning guidelines. For freezing, cool completely and store in airtight containers for up to 6 months.

Notes

  • Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor balance.
  • This filling works well as a topping for pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, or yogurt.
  • If you prefer a gooier texture, increase the cornstarch to 5 tablespoons.
  • This recipe makes enough filling for one standard 9-inch pie.

Nutrition

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