This homemade apple pie filling is made with sliced apples, brown sugar, spices, and butter, all cooked together until it thickens. It tastes much better than the canned version and is perfect for treats like fried apple pies, cream cheese danishes, and other desserts.
Apple pie is one of my favorite fall desserts. I make this filling or other pies like pear custard pie, pumpkin meringue pie, or pecan pie cheesecake when I want fall treats. There are so many great fall desserts to enjoy!
It’s packed with sweet-tart apples tossed in warm cinnamon spice, caramelized brown sugar, and a touch of maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Best Apple Pie Filling Recipe With Brown Sugar
Equipment
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Bowl
- Whisk
- Spoon or spatula
- Large skillet
- Peeler
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 5 cups Apples peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- ¾ cup packed Brown sugar
- ¼ cup Granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground Cinnamon
- ½ tsp Apple pie spice see notes for a substitute
- ⅛ tsp Salt
- 6 tbsp Cornstarch or more if needed
- 2 ½ cups Water
- 2 tsp Apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat and add the sliced apples.
- Toss the apples to coat them well with the melted butter.
- Add both types of sugar, cinnamon, apple pie spice, and salt.
- Let it simmer and cook for about 4-5 minutes until the apples start to soften.
- In a measuring cup, mix the water, cornstarch, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and without lumps.
- Pour this mixture over the softened apples and stir carefully.
- Let it simmer again until the filling thickens and the apples are tender.
- Allow the filling to cool before using it in your favorite 9-inch pie crust.
Notes
- Mix the cornstarch into the water completely before adding it to the apples to prevent lumps.
- Stir the cornstarch mixture into the apples right away to avoid lumps.
- Slice the apples evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Cut apples into ¼ inch wedges or smaller pieces if you prefer, but keep the sizes similar.
- Adjust the cooking time if your apple slices are much larger or smaller than ¼ inch.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 178 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 36g |
| Sugar | 32g |
| Calcium | 33mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
| Vitamin A | 182IU |
| Vitamin C | 4mg |
| Potassium | 118mg |
How Long Does Apple Pie Filling Last?
Once you open canned apple pie filling, keep it in the fridge and use it within 7 to 10 days. Homemade apple pie filling should be used right away or within 4 days if you refrigerate it. If you freeze homemade apple pie filling, it can last for up to 12 months.
Is it Better to Cook Apple Pie Filling First?
Yes, it’s better to cook the filling for about 5 minutes on the stove to make the apple flavor and texture better. After baking and cooling the pie, you can top it with vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
How Long Does it Take For Apple Pie Filling to Thicken?
Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water. Add this to the apple mixture and cook while stirring until it thickens and coats the apples, usually taking about 1 minute. Then, remove it from the heat, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and stir.
How Long is Homemade Apple Pie Good For?
Store homemade apple pie in the fridge, covered with a lid or plastic wrap. It will stay good for up to 4 days. Just make sure to check it before eating to make sure it still looks and smells okay.
