Freezer Apple Pie Filling is a game-changer for any home baker. This make-ahead recipe allows you to capture the peak flavor of fresh apples and store it until you’re ready to bake a perfect pie. Ideal for busy holidays or spontaneous dessert cravings, this filling keeps your pies tasting fresh and homemade without the last-minute hassle.
Ingredients Overview
Apples
- Why This Ingredient? Apples are the core component of this filling, chosen for their sweet and tart flavor profile, which is ideal for pies.
- Health Benefits: Apples are high in fiber and vitamin C, offering benefits like improved digestion and immune support.
Lemon Juice
- Why This Ingredient? Lemon juice prevents the apples from browning and adds a bright, acidic note to balance the sweetness.
- Health Benefits: High in vitamin C, lemon juice is antioxidant-rich and can help lower the risk of heart disease.
Sugar
- Why This Ingredient? Sugar not only sweetens the filling but also helps preserve the apples during freezing.
- Health Benefits: Consumed in moderation, sugar provides a quick source of energy.
Cinnamon
- Why This Ingredient? Cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the apple filling, enhancing the classic pie flavor.
- Health Benefits: Cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Cornstarch
- Why This Ingredient? Cornstarch acts as a thickener, ensuring that the filling is not too runny when baked.
- Health Benefits: Cornstarch is gluten-free and can be a good alternative for those avoiding gluten.
Substitutions
For those with specific dietary preferences or restrictions, here are some simple swaps:
- Sugar: Use honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute like Stevia for a natural sweetening option.
- Lemon Juice: Orange juice can be used for a different citrus twist.
- Cornstarch: Arrowroot powder or tapioca starch are excellent alternatives for thickening.
Recipe
Yield: Enough filling for 2 standard 9-inch pies
Ingredients with Measurements
- 10 cups of peeled, cored, and sliced apples
- 2 teaspoons of lemon juice
- 1 cup of sugar
- 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup of cornstarch
Instructions
- Prepare Apples: Toss the sliced apples with lemon juice immediately after cutting to prevent browning.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Add the apples and toss to coat evenly.
- Freeze: Pack the apple mixture into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Store: Label the containers with the date and store in the freezer for up to a year.
Nutrition
Note: Specific nutritional values can vary based on the type of apple and additional ingredients used.
Storage Instructions
This apple pie filling can be stored in the freezer for up to 12 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using for best results.
Conclusion
Our Freezer Apple Pie Filling not only simplifies the pie-making process but also ensures that you can enjoy a delicious, homemade apple pie any time of the year. By preparing this filling in advance, you’re always just a few steps away from a warm, comforting dessert.
FAQ
- Can I cook the filling before freezing? It’s not necessary to cook the filling before freezing, but doing so can reduce cooking time when you’re ready to bake your pie.
- What type of apples is best for the filling? Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Gala are excellent for their flavor and firmness.
Ingredients
- 24 cups sliced peeled baking apples 6-7 lbs
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 4 1/2 cups sugar (I used half brown sugar, half white sugar)
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 10 cups water
Instructions
In a large bowl, toss apples with lemon juice; set aside. In a Dutch oven (large kettle works) over medium heat, combine sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, salt and nutmeg.Add water and bring to a boil. Boil for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Add apples; return to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer until apples are tender, about 6-8 minutes.Cool for 30 minutes. Ladle into freezer containers, leaving ½ inch headspace. Cool at room temperature no longer than 1 ½ hours. Seal and freeze; store for up to 12 months.
