Homemade Apple Pie Filler: A Year-Round Treat
Preserving Homemade Apple Pie Filling Through Canning
Canning apple pie filling is the perfect way to capture the delightful taste of apples, allowing you to savor autumn flavors anytime. Follow along as we guide you through the joyful process of making this versatile treat from the comfort of your home.
My Canning Adventure
Remember when I first dipped my toes into canning? Apple pie filling was my gateway! It wasn't tough, yet it wasn't a daily necessity either. Now, apples are a staple in my canning pantry, and I simply can't get enough - especially in delicious apple pie, apple dumplings, and more!
Tips for Perfect Apple Pie Filling
- Start with apples that hold up well to heat. Apples like Granny Smith, Jonathan, Honeycrisp, Cortland, and Braeburn will do the trick! Don’t be shy; mix and match for added complexity.
- Slice your apples around 1/2" thick - keeping them chunky for an enjoyable texture when baked.
- Refrigerate apples before making your filling for a firmer slice. Plus, it can help slow down the browning process for neater canning results.
- Skip those traditional thickeners like cornstarch or tapioca and opt for ClearJel, Cook Type. It's the hero of canning pie fillings, capable of withstanding the heat without causing any clumping or runniness.
The Ingredients
Gather up:- Peeled, cored, and sliced apples (1/2" thick)- Unsweetened apple juice or apple cider- Sugar (regular and brown)- ClearJel- Cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice- Lemon juice
How to Make It
Prepare Your Apples
Peel, core, and slice apples into 1/2" slices. Douse them in a bit of lemon juice as you work to prevent browning.
Prepare the Canner, Jars, and Lids
Wash and sterilize your canning jars and lids.
Blanch the Apples
Working with 6 cups of apples at a time, blanch the sliced apples in boiling water for one minute. Remove them with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a large bowl, covered with a lid, to keep warm while you finish crafting your filling.
Make the Syrup
In a large saucepan, combine sugar, brown sugar, apple juice, water, ClearJel, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Cook the mixture, stirring continuously, until it begins to thicken and bubble.
Stir in the lemon juice and boil for another minute before adding in your warm apple slices. Heat the apple mixture until apples are heated through.
Pack Your Jars
Ladle hot apple pie filling into hot jars, leaving 1 1/2" headspace at the top of the jar. Remove air bubbles and adjust for proper headspace if necessary. Wipe the rim with a damp cloth, center the lid, and finger-tighten the screw bands.
Process
Place jars in boiling water canner, making sure the tops are covered by at least 1" of water. Cover with the lid and bring the water to a rolling boil. Process for 25 minutes.
After processing, remove the canner lid and let the jars sit for 5 minutes before transferring to a towel-lined counter. Check for proper seals after 12 to 24 hours. Store in a cool, dark place for up to 18 months.
Exploring More Apple Recipes
- Canning Applesauce: Discover our easy guide to canning homemade applesauce.
- No-Churn Apple Pie Ice Cream: Whip up a delightful, sweet treat that can satisfy your apple cravings all year long.
- Caramel Apple Cider Float: An enchanting twist on a classic fall drink that the entire family will enjoy.
Get the Green Witch's Guide to Canning the Seasons
Slow down. Stir clockwise. Breathe in the steam.
Sign up for the free guide to can the seasons and elevate your canning practice with simple, seasonal recipes infused with intention.
- Celebrate the harvest
- Add ritual to your routine
- Fill your pantry with jars and meaning
--> Stay connected and start canning your way to a more magical life.
- Incorporating canned apple pie filling into various recipes can elevate your home-and-garden lifestyle and food-and-drink choices, providing homemade enjoyed treats throughout the year, such as pies, dumplings, or even ice cream.
- Alongside canning apple pie filling, you can also explore other mouthwatering apple recipes, like canned applesauce, no-churn apple pie ice cream, or a charming caramel apple cider float to indulge in your cravings all year round.
- By signing up for the Green Witch's Guide to Canning the Seasons, you will get the chance to immerse yourself in seasonal recipes that combine intention and culinary pleasure, allowing you to enjoy a more enriched canning lifestyle at home.
