How to Make Delicious Homemade Apple Filling Recipe

Introduction

This homemade apple filling is a simple and delicious way to add a warm, fruity touch to your desserts. Perfect for pies, tarts, or turnovers, it combines tender apples with a blend of spices and a hint of vanilla for rich flavor.

Ingredients

• 4 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced – Granny Smith works well)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
• 3 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup water (could use apple cider for a stronger apple flavor, divided)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Instructions

1. Step 1: Peel, core, and dice the apples into small cubes.
2. Step 2: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir to combine.
3. Step 3: Add 2 tablespoons of water and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft but not mushy.
4. Step 4: If you prefer a thicker filling, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Stir it into the apple mixture and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the filling thickens.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the filling cool slightly before using in your recipe.

Tips & Variations

• Use apple cider instead of water for a more intense apple flavor.
• Experiment with different apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji to adjust sweetness and texture.
• Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for a deeper spice profile.
• For a chunkier texture, reduce cooking time slightly so the apples stay firmer.

Storage

Store the apple filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. You can also freeze the filling for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before use.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen apples for this filling?

Yes, frozen apples can be used, but they may release extra moisture, so you might need to cook the filling a bit longer to reduce the liquid.

Is it possible to make this filling vegan?

Absolutely. Substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil to keep it vegan-friendly.

How to Make Delicious Homemade Apple Filling Recipe

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4.9 from 80 reviews

This classic apple filling recipe is perfect for pies, tarts, or any dessert needing a flavorful apple base. Made with diced Granny Smith apples, sweetened with a blend of brown and granulated sugar, and spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, this filling is cooked gently on the stovetop to achieve a tender yet chunky texture. The addition of butter and vanilla extract deepens the flavor, while cornstarch helps achieve the perfect thickness.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 2 cups of apple filling 1x
• Category: Dessert Filling
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Apples

• 4 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced, Granny Smith recommended)

Sugars and Spices

• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)

Liquids and Thickeners

• 3 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup water (can substitute apple cider for stronger flavor, divided)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Instructions

1. Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and dice the apples into small, evenly sized cubes to ensure even cooking.
2. Cook apples with spices: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and optional nutmeg. Stir everything together thoroughly to coat the apples evenly.
3. Simmer the mixture: Add 2 tablespoons of water (or apple cider if preferred), then cook the mixture for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The apples should become soft but maintain some texture, not turning mushy.
4. Thicken the filling: For a thicker consistency, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water to form a slurry. Stir the slurry into the apple mixture and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until the filling thickens sufficiently.
5. Finish and cool: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to enhance flavor. Allow the apple filling to cool slightly before using it in your desired dessert.

Notes

• Using Granny Smith apples provides a nice tartness that balances the sweetness.
• Apple cider can replace water to intensify apple flavor.
• Adjust sugar levels based on the tartness of your apples.
• The filling can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• For a chunkier texture, avoid overcooking the apples.

Keywords: apple filling, apple pie filling, apple dessert filling, homemade apple filling, cinnamon apple filling