Easy Homemade Freezer Apple Pie Filling Recipe
What is apple pie? Is apple pie a foolproof recipe?How do you make a homemade Apple Pie filling?What is the kind of thing that makes your house smell like grandma’s kitchen? Grandma lived on a different continent. Is it the secret weapon to having fresh-baked apple pie any time you want? Is it easier to make a pie crust from scratch? I love it way more than trying to mess with store-bought fillings, which always taste a little off*. Is it too sweet, too bland, or have an artificial aftertaste? And frankly, making this filling is so simple, there’s really no excuse not to have a batch ready to make. What should I put in my freezer? Trust me, in the future you will thank me.
What is easy homemade apple pie filling?
Okay, so what *is* this magical stuff? Well, imagine all the delicious, spiced apple goodness that usually resides inside a warm, comforting apple pie. This How do you make a Freezer Apple Pie Filling?Is essentially that – but without the crust. Is it a mixture of perfectly ripe apples, sugar, spices, and some kind of something to thicken it up? Think of it as apple pie filling concentrate, ready to be dumped into a pie crust whenever the crust is too dry. I mean, who wouldn’t want that? Is it possible to bake a pie without peeling, core, and chopping all those apples? *every time*. Is What is the best way to serve apple crisps, crumbles or just warm over ice cream?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
I don’t just throw around the word “love” lightly, but I genuinely adore this recipe, and I love it. I think you will too.
- Flavor explosion: WhatWe’re talking warm cinnamon, a hint of nutmeg, the juicy sweetness of perfectly ripe apples… it’s all about the taste. Is it like a hug in every bite? What I love about spices is that you can tailor them to your liking. Sometimes I add a pinch of cardamom or cloves if I’m feeling really good.
- Ridiculously easyIf you can stir, you make this. I always feel like I’m getting away with something because it tastes so good but requires so little effort. I can’t help myself.
- Budget friendlyApples are pretty darn cheap, especially when they’re in season. What are some of the other ingredients in your pantry? When I first started making this, I was a broke college student, and it was like he saved my life.
- Super versatile: I likeIs Pie just the beginning?How do I make a Freezer Apple Pie Filling Recipe?What are the best ways to make hand pies, hand crumbles, or just warm it up and spoon it over vanilla ice cream? I used it as a topping for pancakes. It was delicious!
I’ve tried tons of apple pie recipes over the years, and while I appreciate a good complicated recipe, I don’t really like it. Recipe, this one just hits different. Is it simple, satisfying, and always a crowd pleaser? Is it a little like my grandma’s apple pie? What are some of my favorite recipes for apple crisp?
How do I make homemade Apple Pie Filling?
Quick Overview
Making this How do I make homemade apple pie filling in a freezer?Is ridiculously simple? What is the best way to peel and chop apples, mix them with sugar and spices, and cook them.? What is the best way to thicken a mixture and freeze it for later use? What is the beauty of pie filling? Don’t let the idea of homemade pie filling intimidate you – this method is practically foolproof.
Ingredients Notes:
For the Apple Filling:
Apples:What is the best combination of varieties? I like Granny Smith for tartness, Honeycrisp for sweetness, and Fuji for a bit of both. What are some good apples to eat? Don’t worry about being too perfect with the peeling and coring – a little rustic charm never hurts.
Sugar:I like brown sugar for a molasses-y flavor. I also like granulated sugar. I usually stick with about 34 cup, but adjust to your sweetness preference.
Lemon Juice:How can I make lemon juice? How do you prevent apples from browning
Spices:What is a pinch of cinnamon? I like to add a dash of ginger or cloves depending on my mood.
Cornstarch:This is our thickening agent. If you like a thicker consistency, you can add more if you want.
Water: Just a bit to help everything cook down.
What are the Step-
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and chop your apples into roughly 12-inch pieces. Don’t stress about making them perfectly uniform – rustic is good! As you chop, toss the apple pieces with the lemon juice to prevent browning. I usually do this in a large bowl.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chopped apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (and any other spices) (or any combination of them). What spices do you use, cornstarch and water? Stir everything together well, making sure the cornstarch is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Cook the Filling
Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low and cook for about 10-15 minutes or until the apples are tender. Remove from heat and serve. Are tender but still slightly firm. Why don’t you want them to turn to mush?
Step 4: Cool and Package
Remove pot from heat and let filling cool completely. Once it’s cooled, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. I like to use quart-sized freezer bags and fill them about 34 full. What is the perfect amount for a pie?
Step 5: Freeze
What are the best ways to store freezer bags on a baking sheet? Once they’re frozen solid, you can stack them in the freezer to save space.How do I make a Freezer Apple Pie Filling?Will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Step 6: Bake Your Pie
When you’re ready to bake a pie, simply thaw the filling overnight in the refrigerator or for several days. Is it safe to work at room temperature? How do I make a thawed pie crust? ), top with another crust or a crumble topping, and bake according to your pie recipe. I bake mine at 375 degrees for about 45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is firm. I don’t like to eat it, but I do like it.
5. What to Serve It With
What should I serve it with?
This How do I make a Freezer Apple Pie Filling?Is so versatile, you can serve it in countless ways!
For Breakfast: Warm a bowl of filling and top it with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of granola for a healthy and satisfying breakfast. Coffee with a dash of cinnamon goes perfectly.
For Brunch: Serve mini apple pies alongside mimosas or sparkling cider for a festive brunch treat. Elegant plating with a dusting of powdered sugar makes it extra special.
As Dessert: A classic apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is always a winner. For a more sophisticated dessert, try serving the warm filling with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt. A glass of late-harvest Riesling complements the sweetness beautifully.
For Cozy Snacks: Warm the filling and serve it with graham crackers or ginger snaps for a simple and comforting snack on a chilly evening. Pair it with a warm cup of spiced cider or hot chocolate for extra coziness.
My family loves to have it warm with a scoop of ice cream on a Sunday night. It’s become a little tradition, and it’s something we all look forward to. Sometimes we even add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
6. Top Tips for Perfecting Your Easy Homemade Freezer Apple Pie Filling Recipe
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Easy Homemade Freezer Apple Pie Filling Recipe
Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years to make sure your apple pie filling is absolutely perfect every time:
Apple Selection: Use a mix of apple varieties for the best flavor and texture. I like to combine tart apples like Granny Smith with sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. This creates a balanced filling that’s not too sweet and not too tart.
Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the apples. You want them to be tender but still slightly firm. Overcooked apples will turn to mush and the filling will be too soft.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste the filling as it cooks and adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. If your apples are very sweet, you may need to reduce the amount of sugar. If they’re very tart, you may need to add a bit more.
Spice It Up: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices. In addition to cinnamon and nutmeg, you can add a pinch of ginger, cloves, or allspice for a warmer, more complex flavor.
Thickening Power: If you prefer a thicker filling, you can add a bit more cornstarch. Just make sure to mix it with a little cold water before adding it to the pot to prevent lumps.
Lemon Juice: Don’t skip the lemon juice! It not only brightens up the flavor but also helps prevent the apples from browning.
Freezing Tips: Make sure to cool the filling completely before freezing it. This will prevent ice crystals from forming. Also, be sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags to protect the filling from freezer burn.
Thawing: Thaw the filling overnight in the refrigerator for best results. If you’re in a hurry, you can thaw it at room temperature, but keep an eye on it and make sure it doesn’t get too warm.
I’ve also learned that adding a tablespoon of butter at the end of cooking gives the filling a richer, more luxurious flavor. It’s totally optional, but it’s a nice touch.
7. Storing and Reheating Tips
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to properly store and reheat your Easy Homemade Freezer Apple Pie Filling Recipe to maintain its delicious quality:
Room Temperature: I don’t recommend leaving it at room temperature. It’s better safe than sorry!
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooled filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This is great if you plan to use it within the week for a quick dessert or snack.
Freezer Instructions: For long-term storage, the freezer is your best friend. Pack the cooled filling into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little headroom for expansion. Lay the bags flat while freezing for easier stacking. The filling can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months without significant loss of quality.
Glaze Timing Advice: The glaze (if you’re using one) is best added after reheating. This will give it the best texture and prevent it from becoming sticky during storage.
When thawing, transfer the filling from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. If you’re in a rush, you can thaw it in the microwave using the defrost setting, but be careful not to overheat it. Reheat the filling gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, to prevent it from splattering.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
9. Final Thoughts & Conclusion
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my secret weapon for having delicious apple pie whenever the craving strikes. This Easy Homemade Freezer Apple Pie Filling Recipe is truly a game-changer, and I hope you’ll give it a try. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and incredibly versatile. Plus, it makes your house smell amazing! Whether you’re baking a pie for a special occasion or just want a comforting dessert on a chilly night, this filling is sure to please. If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like my apple crisp or apple crumble recipes – they’re both equally delicious and easy to make.
Happy baking, my friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you make any fun variations, I’d love to hear about them too. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with your friends – they’ll thank you for it!
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Easy Homemade Freezer Apple Pie Filling Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups apples peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 2 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1.5 tsp ground cinnamon
- 0.5 tsp ground nutmeg
- 0.5 tsp ground allspice
- 0.5 cup water
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large pot, combine apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and water.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the apples are tender, about 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze. The filling can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
