Apple Pie Filling From Scratch
One thing about me, I LOVE apple pie. It’s one of those things that I look forward to at every holiday or family get together. I’m also a fan of apple cobbler during camp. Don’t get me wrong, peach cobbler is wonderful. But, apple and cinnamon is one of those comforting flavor combinations for me. I’m going to share my favorite apple pie filling recipe with you. This recipe is extremely easy and will make you never want to buy store bought pie filling ever again. If using this pie filling within the week, simply keep it refrigerated. Otherwise, you will want to keep in a mason jar and can for longer shelf life.
Here we go…
You will need the following.
7 medium size apples (any variety will do)
Juice from half a lemon
3 cups water
1 1/3 cups sugar
1/3 cup cornstarch
1 Tablespoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Step One
Peal, core, and cube your apples. You can keep them as slices. I just like to have smaller, more manageable pieces of apples for the younger ones to eat. Plus the smaller pieces of apples fit better when storing in a canning jar. Place your apple pieces into a large bowl filled with water and the juice from half a lemon. This will help the apples from not turning brown during the rest of the prep time.
Step Two
In a large pot, combine the 3 cups of water, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. Bring to a rolling boil and then boil for an additional 2 minutes. Stir continually so the mixture does not stick to the bottom of the pot and caramelize. Note: reduce or add as much cinnamon for your own taste. I like to know that the cinnamon is there so 1 Tablespoon is perfect for me.
Step Three
Drain the apples in a colander and place the apple chunks in the boiling mixture. Reduce the heat and simmer about 8 minutes. Stir periodically.
Step Four
Pour your newly created apple pie filling into canning jars and leave on your counter top until the jars reach room temperature. Keep refrigerated if using within the week. Or, using the canning method, pressurize your canning jars to store for the year.
Ok… that should do it. I’m actually going to go eat a slice of apple pie right now. Not even kidding. Enjoy.