Gluten-Free Homemade Apple Pie Filling
This versatile apple pie filling combines tender diced apples with a perfectly spiced cinnamon-nutmeg syrup that thickens as it cools. The cornstarch-based sauce creates a glossy coating that won't make pie crusts soggy, while lemon juice keeps the apples bright and prevents browning. Perfect for pies, tarts, crumbles, or spooning over ice cream. This make-ahead filling can be jarred and refrigerated, making holiday baking much easier when you can prepare components in advance.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Place apples in a large bowl and toss with lemon juice
- 2
Combine water, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg in a medium saucepan and stir
- 3
Bring mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring often
- 4
Boil for two minutes once mixture reaches a boil
- 5
Add the apples to the saucepan and reduce to a simmer
- 6
Cover and cook, stirring often, until apples soften
- 7
Pour into jars and cool to room temperature
- 8
Cover and refrigerate
Tips
Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp that hold their shape during cooking and won't turn mushy
The filling will appear thin when hot but thickens significantly as it cools, so don't add extra cornstarch
Make this filling up to 3 days ahead and store covered in the refrigerator for easier pie assembly
Good to Know
Refrigerate covered for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 6 months
Can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored covered in refrigerator
Use as pie filling, serve warm over ice cream, or layer in parfaits
Common Mistakes
Don't skip the lemon juice or apples will brown quickly
Avoid overcooking apples or they'll become mushy and break apart
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use different types of apples for this filling?
Yes, firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn work best as they hold their shape during cooking and provide good flavor balance.
How long does this apple pie filling keep in the refrigerator?
The filling will keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or you can freeze it for up to 6 months in freezer-safe containers.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
You can reduce sugar by up to 1/3 cup, but the filling may be less thick and sweet. Taste apples first as very sweet varieties may need less sugar.