Quick Stovetop Apple Pie Filling: Simple & Warm Dessert (Print Version)
Whip up this Easy Stovetop Apple Pie Filling in minutes! Perfect for pies, crisps, or just a warm spoon, it's a simple, comforting treat.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian
# Ingredients:
→ Apple Base
01 -
6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and chopped
02 -
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
→ Sweeteners & Thickeners
03 -
1/2 cup granulated sugar
04 -
1/4 cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
05 -
2 tbsp cornstarch
06 -
1/2 cup water
→ Spices & Flavor
07 -
1 tsp ground cinnamon
08 -
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
→ Finishing Touch
09 -
1 tbsp unsalted butter
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, peel, core, and chop your apples into roughly half-inch pieces. I know, peeling can be a bit of a chore, but it's worth it for that smooth filling. Try to keep the pieces uniform so they cook evenly; I always get a little messy with this step, apple peels everywhere, honestly. This is where the magic begins, you can almost smell the promise of warm apple pie already!
02 -
In a small bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Give it a good whisk to make sure there are no lumps, especially with that cornstarch. I once skipped this, and let's just say I had little pockets of cornstarch powder in my filling – oops! This dry mix is key for that perfectly spiced, thickened sauce.
03 -
Grab a large saucepan or a deep skillet, something with high sides, and toss in your chopped apples with the lemon juice. Pour in about half a cup of water. Cook this over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples start to soften slightly, maybe 5-7 minutes. You'll see them just begin to give, and the kitchen will start smelling incredible. Don't let them get mushy yet!
04 -
Now, sprinkle your whisked sugar and spice mixture over the apples. Stir it all together really well, making sure every apple piece gets coated. The mixture will look a bit thick and cloudy at first, but don't worry, it'll transform. Keep stirring gently, letting the sugars dissolve and coat the apples beautifully.
05 -
Continue cooking the Easy Stovetop Apple Pie Filling, stirring frequently, for another 8-12 minutes, or until the apples are tender but still hold their shape, and the sauce has thickened nicely. It should be glossy and bubbling gently. This is where you really see the transformation; the sauce will cling to the apples, looking so inviting. Don't rush it!
06 -
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the unsalted butter until it's completely melted and incorporated. This adds a lovely richness and a beautiful sheen to your Easy Stovetop Apple Pie Filling. Let it cool for a bit before using, as it will thicken even more as it cools. The aroma at this point? Unbeatable, honestly. It's ready for anything!
# Notes:
01 -
Don't rush the apple softening; it makes all the difference for that tender bite.
02 -
This filling keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to a week, honestly, it gets better.
03 -
No lemon? A splash of orange juice works in a pinch for that bright lift, I've tried it!
04 -
A dollop of vanilla bean paste at the end? Oh, it's a game-changer, trust me.
# Equipment Needed:
01 -
Large saucepan or deep skillet
02 -
small whisk
03 -
cutting board
04 -
knife
05 -
peeler
# Nutrition (Per Serving):
Calories: 180 Calories
Total Fat: 3g
Total Carbohydrate: 40g
Protein: 1g