Apple Filling for Pies ππ₯§
Overview:
Indulge in the delight of homemade pies with this sumptuous Apple Filling recipe! Crafted with care and perfected over time, this filling boasts a balance of sweetness and tartness, encased in a flaky pastry crust. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering pie that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Yield: 1 9-inch pie
- Rating: βββββ (5 stars)
- Calories: 105.2 per serving
- Recipe Category: Pie
- Keywords: Dessert, Apple, Fruit, Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, < 60 Mins, Oven, Beginner Cook, Stove Top, Easy, Inexpensive
Ingredients:
- 4 large apples, diced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2-4 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
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Prepare the Apples: Start by sprinkling lemon juice over the diced apples in a saucepan. This step helps to prevent browning and adds a refreshing tartness to the filling.
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Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the sugar, cornstarch, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Adjust the amount of cornstarch according to your desired thickness, as suggested, between 2 to 4 tablespoons for a perfect consistency.
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Combine with Apples: Add the mixed dry ingredients to the diced apples in the saucepan. Ensure all the apples are evenly coated with the sugar and spice mixture.
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Cook the Filling: Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly. As the apples release their juices, the mixture will thicken. To prevent burning, stir every couple of minutes, especially if using a microwave. If microwaving the juice, ensure it’s very hot before adding it to the pan.
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Thicken and Cool: Continue cooking and stirring until the filling reaches the desired thickness. Once thickened, remove the pan from the heat and allow the filling to cool slightly. This step is crucial for setting the filling and preventing it from becoming too runny.
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Prepare the Pie Crust: While the filling cools, ensure your pie crust is well chilled. Line a 9-inch pie pan with the pastry crust, ready to be filled with the delicious apple mixture.
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Assemble and Bake: Pour the cooled apple filling into the prepared pie crust. Cover with the top crust, sealing the edges securely. Vent the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the pie on the lowest rack of your preheated oven, set to 425Β°F (220Β°C), and bake for 10 minutes. This initial high heat helps to set the bottom crust. Then, move the pie to the center rack and continue baking until the filling is bubbling and the crust is golden brown, about 20 minutes more.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Tips and Variations:
- Experiment with different types of apples for varying flavors and textures. Granny Smith apples lend a tartness, while Honeycrisp adds sweetness.
- For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust or substitute cornstarch with arrowroot powder as a thickening agent.
- Enhance the flavor profile by adding a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of ground cloves to the filling mixture.
- Serve leftovers (if any!) for breakfast the next day alongside a scoop of yogurt or oatmeal for a delicious and wholesome start to the day.
With its irresistible aroma wafting through the kitchen and its tantalizing taste, this Apple Filling for Pies recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a masterpiece that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
