Canning Apple Pie Filling Recipe

Welcome to the world of home canning, where we’re excited to share the secrets of our favorite canning apple pie filling recipe.

If you’re anything like us, the smell of freshly baked apple pie brings a flood of cozy, nostalgic memories.

Today, we’re diving into a canning project that’s sure to become a staple in your pantry: canning apple pie filling recipe using Clear Jel.

This magical ingredient ensures your pie filling is perfectly thickened and ready to transform into a delicious dessert at a moment’s notice.

Join us as we share tips, tricks, and a step-by-step guide to preserving the heartwarming flavor of homemade apple pie, ready to enjoy year-round.

Choosing the Right Apples for Canning Apple Pie Filling

When it comes to canning apple pie filling, selecting the right apples is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Not all apples are created equal, especially when it comes to baking and preserving. Here are some tips to help you choose the best apples for your pie filling:

1. Firmness Matters: Look for apples that are firm and crisp. Apples that are too soft or mealy won’t hold their shape well during the canning process, resulting in a mushy filling. Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Jonagold are excellent choices because they maintain their texture when cooked.
2. Flavor Profile: A great apple pie filling combines sweet and tart flavors. Using a mix of apple varieties can provide a more complex and satisfying taste. Tart apples like Granny Smith pair wonderfully with sweeter varieties like Fuji or Golden Delicious, creating a harmonious blend that’s neither too sweet nor too tangy.
3. Freshness is Key: Always opt for the freshest apples you can find. Visit your local farmers’ market or pick your own at a nearby orchard to ensure you’re getting apples at their peak. Fresh apples have the best flavor and texture, which will translate into a superior pie filling.
4. Organic Options: If possible, choose organic apples to avoid any pesticide residues. Since you’ll be using the peels in some canning recipes, it’s a healthier choice for you and your family.

Preparing the Apples

Once you’ve chosen the perfect apples for your pie filling, it’s time to prepare them for canning. Proper preparation ensures that your apples maintain their texture and flavor throughout the canning process. Follow these steps to get your apples ready:

1. Wash: Start by thoroughly washing your apples under cool running water to remove any dirt or residues. Next, peel the apples using a vegetable peeler or a paring knife. If you prefer to keep the peels on for added texture and nutrition, make sure to wash the apples even more thoroughly.
2. Peel, Core and Slice: peel, core and slice your apples in uniform sizes. Using a reliable apple peeler/corer can save you a lot of time and effort. I do recommend slicing by hand so your slices aren’t too thin.
3. Prevent Browning: To keep your apple slices looking fresh and prevent them from browning, place them in a bowl of cold water mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice. Let the slices soak while you prepare the rest of your apples.

By following these preparation steps, you’ll ensure that your apples are ready to become a delicious, shelf-stable pie filling. In the next section, we’ll guide you through the process of creating the perfect pie filling mixture using Clear Jel.

Creating the Pie Filling

Now that your apples are prepped and ready, it’s time to create the delicious pie filling that will be the star of your homemade apple pies. This recipe makes 4 quarts of apple pie filling, perfect for stocking your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 12 cups sliced, peeled, and cored apples (about 6 pounds)
• 2 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup Clear Jel (not instant)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 3 3/4 cups water
• 1/2 cup bottled lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Blanch the Apples:
   • Blanch the peeled and sliced apples in boiling water for 1 minute, working in batches of 6 cups at a time. This helps to remove some of the air from the apples, preventing siphoning or jars that aren’t full after processing. After blanching, keep the apples warm by covering them with a lid or pan.
2. Prepare the Filling Mixture:
   • In a large stockpot, combine the sugar, Clear Jel, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Stir in the water and mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
   • Cook the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until it begins to thicken and bubble. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat and continue to cook for 1 minute, ensuring the mixture is smooth and thickened.
3. Add Lemon Juice:
   • Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the lemon juice. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps to preserve the filling. Mix well to incorporate the lemon juice evenly throughout the mixture.
4. Combine with Apples:
   • Gently fold the blanched apple slices into the hot mixture, making sure all slices are well-coated. Return the pot to the stove and bring the filling back to a gentle boil over medium heat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure the apples are evenly heated and coated.
5. Pack into Jars:
   • Ladle the hot apple pie filling into sterilized quart jars, leaving about 1-inch headspace at the top. Remove any air bubbles by running a non-metallic utensil around the inside of the jars. Wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth to ensure a good seal.
   • Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until fingertip-tight.
6. Process in Water Bath Canner:
   • Process the jars in a boiling water bath canner for 25 minutes. Adjust the processing time according to your altitude if necessary.
   • Once processed, carefully remove the jars from the canner and let them cool on a towel or rack. After 24 hours, check the seals. Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

By following these steps, you’ll have a pantry full of delicious homemade apple pie filling, ready to transform into a comforting dessert at a moment’s notice.

Apple Pie Filling FAQs

1. Why use Clear Jel instead of other thickeners?
Clear Jel is specifically designed for canning because it remains stable during both the canning process and the subsequent baking of your pies. Unlike cornstarch or flour, Clear Jel doesn’t break down, ensuring your pie filling maintains the perfect consistency.

2. Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! Using a mix of apple varieties can enhance the flavor and texture of your pie filling. Combining tart apples like Granny Smith with sweeter varieties like Fuji or Golden Delicious creates a well-balanced and delicious filling.

3. How can I tell if my jars are sealed properly?
After processing and cooling, check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid. If it doesn’t pop back, the jar is sealed. Additionally, you can remove the bands and gently lift the jar by the lid. A properly sealed lid will stay in place.

4. What should I do if a jar doesn’t seal?
If a jar doesn’t seal, you can reprocess it within 24 hours by reheating the filling, repacking the jar with a new lid, and processing it again in a water bath canner. Alternatively, you can refrigerate the unsealed jar and use the filling within a week.

5. How long will the canned apple pie filling last?
When stored in a cool, dark place, properly sealed jars of apple pie filling can last up to a year. Always check the seal and appearance of the filling before use, discarding any jars that show signs of spoilage.

6. Can I adjust the spices in the recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the spices to suit your personal taste. Feel free to add more cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a pinch of cloves or allspice for a unique flavor twist. Just be sure to maintain the overall balance of the recipe.

7. Is it safe to can apple pie filling without lemon juice?
Lemon juice is essential in this recipe as it adds acidity, which helps to preserve the filling and ensures it is safe for long-term storage. Do not omit or reduce the amount of lemon juice in the recipe.

By understanding these key points, you’ll be well-equipped to successfully can your own apple pie filling.

Enjoy the convenience of canning apple pie filling ahead of time, so you’re ready to create delicious desserts any time of the year!