Delicious Apple Pie Filling for Canning: A Step-by-Step Guide
Are you ready to savor the taste of summer all year long? Canning your own apple pie filling is a rewarding way to enjoy fresh, homemade goodness anytime. This recipe allows you to create a versatile filling perfect for pies, crumbles, tarts, and even cheesecakes.
Ingredients:
- 6-8 pounds of apples: Choose a variety that holds its shape during cooking, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala.
- 1 cup of granulated sugar: Adjust the amount to your preferred sweetness level.
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon: This classic spice adds warmth and flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg: Enhances the apple flavor.
- 1/8 teaspoon of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
- Optional: Lemon juice (1 tablespoon) for preventing browning and adding a hint of brightness.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the apples:
- Wash and peel the apples.
- Core and chop them into small pieces, about 1/2 inch in size.
- Place the chopped apples in a large bowl.
2. Mix the filling ingredients:
- Combine the sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Pour the dry ingredients over the chopped apples and mix gently until all the apples are coated.
- Add the lemon juice, if using.
3. Cook the filling:
- Pour the apple mixture into a large saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened and the filling thickens.
4. Can the filling:
- Sterilize your jars: Wash jars and lids in hot, soapy water. Place the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to sterilize them.
- Fill the jars: Carefully pour the hot apple filling into the sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace.
- Wipe the rims: Use a clean cloth to wipe the rims of the jars, ensuring no food particles remain.
- Seal the jars: Place the lids and rings on the jars, tightening them firmly.
- Process the jars: Process the filled jars in a boiling water bath for 20 minutes. Ensure the jars are fully submerged in the boiling water.
5. Cool and store:
- Once processing is complete, carefully lift the jars out of the water bath and allow them to cool completely.
- You should hear a "pop" sound as the jars seal.
- Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place.
Tips for success:
- Use ripe apples: Ripe apples will ensure a sweet and flavorful filling.
- Don't overfill the jars: Leave adequate headspace to allow for proper processing.
- Check for seals: Ensure all jars have sealed properly after processing.
- Enjoy your canned apple pie filling: This delicious filling is ready to use in your favorite recipes any time of the year!
Variations:
- Add a dash of vanilla extract: This adds a subtle and aromatic touch to the filling.
- Mix different apple varieties: Experiment with different apples to create unique flavor combinations.
- Try different spices: Explore the use of other spices like ginger, allspice, or cardamom for a more complex flavor profile.
With this simple recipe, you can capture the essence of summer and enjoy delicious homemade apple pie filling whenever you desire.
