Grandma’s Canned Apple Pie Filling (Ready in a Flash!)
By Emma | Spedy Recipes |
Nothing says “home” like the warm, cinnamon-spiced aroma of apple pie filling. This quick canned version brings my grandmother’s countryside kitchen to yours perfect for busy families craving tradition without the fuss!
A Slice of My Childhood
Hey there, I’m Emma from Spedy Recipes, and if you’ve ever craved a dessert that feels like a hug, you’re in the right place. Growing up near a water dam in the countryside, our kitchen was the heart of our home. My grandmother, the queen of cozy recipes, taught me that every dish tells a story. Her apple pie filling was legendary sweet, tangy, and always made with love. We’d spend crisp fall afternoons peeling apples, laughing, and sneaking bites, creating memories that still warm my heart.
Now, as a busy mom, I’ve remixed Grandma’s recipe to fit our fast-paced lives. This canned apple pie filling is my love letter to those moments, blending nostalgic flavors with modern shortcuts. It’s quick, effortless, and perfect for sharing with your family whether you’re baking a pie, topping pancakes, or just scooping it straight from the jar (no judgment!). Ready to make some memories? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast & Easy: Ready in under an hour, with pantry staples.
- Family-Friendly: Get the kids involved in stirring or tasting!
- Versatile: Use it for pies, cobblers, or even ice cream toppings.
- Grandma-Approved: Traditional taste, modern convenience.
Canned Apple Pie Filling Recipe
Ingredients (Makes 4-5 Pint Jars)
- 10 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (about 8-10 medium apples, Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work great)
- 5 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 ½ cups ClearJel (cook-type, for safe canning)
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground cloves (optional, for extra warmth)
- 2 tsp salt
- 7 ½ cups cold water
- ¾ cup bottled lemon juice
Equipment
- Large pot
- Canning jars (pint-sized), lids, and bands
- Water bath canner or large stockpot
- Jar lifter and funnel
Instructions
- Prep the Apples: Peel, core, and slice your apples into ¼-inch pieces. Toss them in a bowl with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning. (Pro tip: Get your kids to help stack the slices it’s like edible Jenga!)
- Make the Filling: In a large pot, whisk together sugar, ClearJel, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Gradually add cold water, stirring until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and bubbles (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add Apples: Fold in the apple slices and lemon juice. Stir gently for 3-5 minutes until the apples are heated through but still firm. The kitchen will smell like fall heaven!
- Can the Filling: Ladle the hot filling into sterilized pint jars, leaving 1-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles, wipe rims, and secure lids. Process in a water bath canner for 25 minutes (adjust for altitude if needed).
- Cool & Store: Remove jars and let them cool for 12-24 hours. Check seals, then store in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Pop one open whenever you need a quick dessert fix!
Prep Time
30 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Emma’s Tips for Success
- Apple Choice: Mix tart (Granny Smith) and sweet (Honeycrisp) apples for balanced flavor.
- ClearJel is Key: It’s the secret to thick, safe canning don’t swap it for cornstarch!
- Kid-Friendly Hack: Let your little chefs sprinkle the cinnamon. It’s messy but memorable!
- Storage: Label jars with the date for easy tracking. They make great gifts, too!
Make It Yours
This recipe is your canvas! Try adding a splash of vanilla extract for extra coziness or swap cloves for allspice for a twist. Use the filling in our Quick Apple Pie or drizzle it over Fluffy Pancakes for a weekend treat. Got a fun variation? Share it with us using #SpedyFamilyKitchen!
Why Spedy Recipes?
At Spedy Recipes, we’re all about fast flavors and family memories. Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be meaningful. Whether you’re a busy parent or just starting out, our recipes like this canned apple pie filling are designed to bring joy, connection, and a touch of Grandma’s wisdom to your kitchen. Want more quick dessert ideas? Check out our Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake or join our newsletter for weekly inspiration!
Canned Apple Pie Filling
Equipment
- Large pot
- Canning Jars
- Water Bath Canner or Large Stockpot
- Jar Lifter and Funnel
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 10 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples about 8-10 medium apples, Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
- 5.5 cups granulated sugar
- 1.5 cups ClearJel (cook-type)
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 0.5 tsp ground nutmeg
- 0.25 tsp ground cloves optional
- 2 tsp salt
- 7.5 cups cold water
- 0.75 cup bottled lemon juice
Instructions
- Peel, core, and slice apples into ¼-inch pieces. Toss with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning.
- In a large pot, whisk sugar, ClearJel, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Gradually stir in cold water and cook over medium heat until thickened and bubbly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add apples and bottled lemon juice to the pot. Stir gently for 3-5 minutes until heated through but still firm.
- Ladle the hot filling into sterilized pint jars, leaving 1-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles, wipe rims, secure lids.
- Process jars in a water bath canner for 25 minutes (adjust for altitude if necessary). Let cool for 12-24 hours.
Notes
Let’s Make Memories!
I can’t wait to hear how this recipe turns out in your kitchen! Did your kids sneak extra apples? Did it remind you of your own family traditions? Tag us on Instagram with #SpedyFamilyKitchen or drop a comment below. Let’s keep the kitchen the heart of our homes. Happy canning, friends!
Love quick, nostalgic recipes? Explore more at SpedyRecipes.com and follow us on Instagram for daily kitchen fun!
FAQs About Canned Apple Pie Filling
What apples are best for apple pie filling?
Firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Jonagold are ideal. Mixing types adds complexity to the flavor.
Can I use other thickeners besides cornstarch?
Yes, clear jel is a popular alternative and more stable for canning. Avoid using flour, as it doesn’t hold up well in canned recipes.
How long does canned apple pie filling last?
Properly sealed jars can last up to 12 months when stored in a cool, dark place. Always check the seal and appearance before using.
Can I make this recipe sugar-free?
Absolutely! Substitute sugar with a sweetener like Stevia, or adjust to your taste preference. Keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly.
For a detailed exploration of why certain apples are better suited for pies, see Why Does Apple Go with Cinnamon?.
Let’s Wrap It Up with Love!
This canned apple pie filling is more than a recipe it’s a shortcut to cozy family moments and nostalgic flavors that warm the heart. At Spedy Recipes, we believe every kitchen can be a place of laughter, creativity, and connection, no matter how busy life gets. So, grab those apples, get your kids stirring, and let’s make memories that taste as sweet as Grandma’s hugs. Share your #SpedyFamilyKitchen creations with us, and keep cooking with joy! 🍎✨