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Quick Stovetop Apple Pie Filling: Thick and Spiced Homemade Recipe

Close-up of thick, caramelized apple pie filling coated in cinnamon sugar, served in a small white bowl.

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Make the best homemade apple pie filling on the stovetop in under 15 minutes. This easy recipe yields a thick, perfectly spiced filling ideal for pies, crisps, or as a topping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 medium apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced 1/4 inch thick
  • 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup water

Instructions

  1. Combine the sliced apples and lemon juice in a large saucepan. Toss gently to coat.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. This prevents lumps.
  3. Pour the sugar and spice mixture over the apples in the saucepan. Add the water and butter.
  4. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture constantly until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.
  5. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Continue to cook, stirring often, for 5 to 8 minutes. The sauce will thicken noticeably as it simmers.
  6. Remove the pan from the heat once the apples are tender-crisp and the sauce coats the back of a spoon. Do not overcook; the apples should hold their shape.
  7. Let the apple pie filling cool for at least 20 minutes before using it in your pie crust or dessert. The filling will thicken further as it cools.

Notes

  • For the thickest consistency, ensure you fully dissolve the cornstarch mixture before simmering.
  • Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor balance in your pie filling.
  • This versatile filling works well as a topping for pancakes or oatmeal.
  • If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute 1 tablespoon of the granulated sugar with an extra tablespoon of brown sugar.

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