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Easy Stovetop Apple Pie Filling with Brown Sugar

A white bowl filled with glistening, spiced apple pie filling, showcasing thick apple slices coated in cinnamon sauce.

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Make this quick, homemade apple pie filling on the stovetop. It results in tender apple slices in a sweet, spiced glaze, perfect for pies, crisps, or topping breakfast items.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 large apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced 1/4-inch thick
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 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

Instructions

  1. Combine the sliced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice in a large saucepan. Toss gently to coat the apples evenly.
  2. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the apples begin to soften slightly, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and lemon juice until smooth. This creates a slurry.
  4. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the apple mixture. Stir constantly as the mixture returns to a simmer.
  5. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the filling thickens significantly and becomes glossy, about 2 to 4 minutes. The apples should be tender but still hold their shape.
  6. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the butter until it melts completely, which adds richness and shine to your apple pie filling.
  7. Allow the homemade apple pie filling to cool completely before using it in a pie crust or storing it.

Notes

  • For the best texture, use a mix of tart and sweet apples. This apple filling recipe works well with Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples.
  • This thick apple pie filling stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • If you are using this as a quick apple pie topping for pancakes or waffles, you may prefer a slightly looser consistency; reduce the cornstarch to 1.5 tablespoons.

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