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Easy Stovetop Homemade Apple Pie Filling with Brown Sugar

Close-up of thick, glistening apple pie filling slices coated in cinnamon sauce in a metal bowl.

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Make thick, juicy apple pie filling from scratch on the stovetop. This recipe uses brown sugar and cinnamon for a classic, comforting flavor perfect for pies or toppings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 medium apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced 1/4 inch thick
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup water

Instructions

  1. Combine the sliced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and lemon juice in a large bowl. Toss gently until the apples are evenly coated.
  2. Melt the butter in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  3. Add the coated apple mixture and the water to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
  4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
  5. Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low. Continue to cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften slightly and the sauce thickens to a glossy glaze. Do not overcook; the apples should still hold their shape.
  6. Remove the pan from the heat. Let the apple pie filling cool completely before using it in a pie crust or storing it.

Notes

  • For a thicker glaze, add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with two tablespoons of cold water during the last five minutes of cooking.
  • This filling works well for a double-crust pie, turnovers, or as a topping for pancakes and waffles.
  • You can store this homemade apple pie filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

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