Name: Apple Pie Filling
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 12 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium apples (peeled, cored, chopped or sliced); 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 3 tablespoons water; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 4 teaspoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)

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This quick and easy stovetop apple pie filling is a homemade upgrade that tastes far better than anything from a can. With tender apples simmered in a buttery cinnamon-sugar sauce and thickened to the perfect consistency, this versatile filling is ready in just 12 minutes—ideal for pies, crisps, pancakes, and more.

Apple Pie Filling

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in just 12 minutes
Tastes fresher and more flavorful than canned versions
Uses simple pantry ingredients
Perfect texture—tender but not mushy
Customizable with your favorite apples or spices
Works for pies, crisps, turnovers, and toppings
Freezer-friendly and make-ahead friendly
Naturally gluten-free (if using GF cornstarch)
Warm, cozy flavor perfect for any season
Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 medium apples (peeled, cored, chopped or sliced)
⅓ cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon cinnamon
4 teaspoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons water (for slurry)

Directions

Peel, core, and chop or slice apples into desired shape—½-inch cubes or ¼-inch slices both work well.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the cinnamon until fragrant.
Add chopped apples, granulated sugar, and 3 tablespoons of water. Stir to coat the apples evenly.
Cover and cook for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are just beginning to soften.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry.
Slowly pour the slurry into the saucepan while stirring to prevent lumps.
Continue cooking until the filling thickens and apples are tender but not mushy—about 1–2 more minutes.
Let the mixture bubble gently for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
Cool before using or storing.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 12 minutes
Calories: Approximately 109 kcal per serving

Variations

Apple Variety Options: Try Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, or a mix for sweet and tart flavor.
Maple Twist: Replace sugar with maple syrup for a deeper, autumnal sweetness.
Spiced Version: Add nutmeg, allspice, or cloves for more complex spice flavor.
Brown Sugar Swap: Use brown sugar instead of granulated for a richer, caramel-like taste.
Vanilla Note: Stir in ½ teaspoon vanilla extract at the end for extra aroma.
Salted Caramel: Add a pinch of salt and a spoonful of caramel sauce for indulgence.
Lemon Brightness: Add a teaspoon of lemon juice for a slight tang and to prevent browning.
No Butter: Use a plant-based butter or omit entirely for a dairy-free version.
Chunky Style: Use larger apple pieces for a more rustic, textured result.
Smooth Style: Dice finely and mash some apples slightly while cooking for a softer filling.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooled filling in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Can I use this filling for apple pie?

Absolutely—this filling is perfect for a 9-inch apple pie. You may want to double the batch depending on how full you like your pie.

What apples are best for this recipe?

Firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best. A mix of sweet and tart apples also works great.

Do I have to peel the apples?

Peeling is optional. If you like a more rustic texture and added fiber, feel free to leave the peels on.

Can I make this without cornstarch?

Yes, substitute arrowroot powder or flour (use 2 tablespoons flour in place of 4 teaspoons cornstarch). Just cook a bit longer to thicken.

Is this apple pie filling gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free cornstarch, the filling is naturally gluten-free.

Can I use this as a topping for pancakes or oatmeal?

Definitely! It’s delicious served warm over pancakes, waffles, French toast, oatmeal, or yogurt.

How do I thicken my apple pie filling if it’s too runny?

Simmer the filling a bit longer, or add a bit more cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 teaspoon water).

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, it stores very well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep or holiday baking.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, reduce the sugar to ¼ cup for a less sweet version, or sweeten to taste.

What can I do with leftover filling?

Use it in turnovers, puff pastry tarts, spooned over ice cream, or layered into parfaits or trifles.

Conclusion

This quick and easy homemade apple pie filling is a game-changer—fresh, fragrant, and made in just 12 minutes. Whether you’re baking a pie, topping your breakfast, or spooning it over ice cream, this cozy, cinnamon-spiced filling brings warm, comforting flavor to every bite. Ditch the can and enjoy the taste of real apples cooked to perfection.