Apple Pie Filling for Canning: A Sweet and Easy Recipe
Apple pie filling is a classic American dessert, and canning it allows you to enjoy that delicious taste all year round. This recipe makes a delicious and easy-to-can apple pie filling that is perfect for pies, crumbles, and other desserts.
Ingredients:
- 8 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apples:
- Wash, peel, core, and slice the apples into 1/4-inch thick slices.
- Place the apples in a large bowl and toss with the lemon juice.
2. Combine Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves (if using).
- Pour the sugar mixture over the apples and stir gently to coat.
3. Canning:
- Sterilize Jars and Lids: Wash jars and lids in hot soapy water. Place jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
- Fill Jars: Pack the apple mixture into the sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth.
- Seal and Process: Place lids on jars and tighten rings. Process jars in a boiling water bath for 20 minutes.
4. Cooling and Storage:
- Carefully remove jars from the boiling water bath and let cool completely.
- Once cooled, check lids for a proper seal.
- Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place.
Tips for Success:
- Use high-quality apples. Firm, tart apples hold their shape and flavor during canning.
- Don't overcook the apples. Overcooking will result in a mushy filling.
- Use a good-quality pectin. Pectin helps to thicken the filling.
- Follow the canning instructions carefully. Proper canning techniques are essential for safety.
Enjoying Your Canned Apple Pie Filling:
- Apple Pies: Use the filling for classic apple pies or try other variations like caramel apple pie or apple crumb pie.
- Cobblers and Crisps: Combine the filling with a buttery, crumbly topping for a delicious cobbler or crisp.
- Cheesecakes and Tarts: Use the filling as a topping for a cheesecake or a sweet and tart filling for a tart crust.
- Yogurt and Oatmeal: Stir a spoonful of the filling into your yogurt or oatmeal for a sweet and flavorful breakfast.
With a little effort and some delicious ingredients, you can enjoy homemade apple pie filling all year long!
