What To Know
- Having a stash of homemade apple pie filling on hand makes whipping up a delicious pie a breeze, especially when you’re pressed for time.
- Cinnamon is a classic choice, but you can also add nutmeg, allspice, ginger, or even a pinch of cloves for a more nuanced flavor.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can cook the apples for a few minutes before adding them to the filling.
The aroma of freshly baked apple pie is a quintessential comfort food, evoking memories of cozy fall evenings and family gatherings. But what if you could capture that deliciousness and enjoy it year-round? The question arises: can you jar apple pie filling? The answer is a resounding yes! Preserving homemade apple pie filling is a fantastic way to savor the taste of autumn even when the leaves have fallen.
The Benefits of Jarring Apple Pie Filling
There are several compelling reasons to consider jarring your own apple pie filling:
- Freshness and Flavor: Jarred apple pie filling from the store often contains preservatives and artificial flavors that can detract from the natural taste. Homemade filling, on the other hand, is made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, ensuring a more vibrant and authentic flavor.
- Customization: You have complete control over the ingredients and sweetness level when making your own filling. Experiment with different apple varieties, spices, and sweeteners to create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste.
- Cost Savings: Jarring your own apple pie filling can be significantly cheaper than buying pre-made filling, especially if you grow your own apples.
- Convenience: Having a stash of homemade apple pie filling on hand makes whipping up a delicious pie a breeze, especially when you’re pressed for time.
Essential Ingredients for Jarred Apple Pie Filling
Before you embark on your pie-making journey, gather these essential ingredients:
- Apples: Choose a variety that holds its shape well during cooking, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar is the most common sweetener for apple pie filling, but you can experiment with brown sugar or maple syrup for a more complex flavor.
- Thickener: Cornstarch or tapioca flour are commonly used to thicken the filling.
- Spices: Cinnamon is a classic choice, but you can also add nutmeg, allspice, ginger, or even a pinch of cloves for a more nuanced flavor.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon juice helps preserve the filling’s color and adds a touch of brightness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Jarring Apple Pie Filling
Now, let’s dive into the process of jarring your own apple pie filling:
1. Prepare the Apples: Wash, peel, core, and slice the apples into thin pieces. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can cook the apples for a few minutes before adding them to the filling.
2. Combine the Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the sliced apples, sugar, thickener, spices, and lemon juice. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Cook the Filling: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften and the filling thickens.
4. Sterilize the Jars: Wash the jars and lids in hot soapy water and rinse thoroughly. Place the jars and lids in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to sterilize them.
5. Fill the Jars: Carefully ladle the hot apple pie filling into the sterilized jars, leaving about half an inch of headspace at the top.
6. Process the Jars: Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any spills. Place the lids and screw on the bands tightly. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to seal them properly.
7. Cool and Store: Remove the jars from the boiling water bath and let them cool completely. Once cool, check for proper sealing by pressing on the center of the lids. If the lid pops back up, the jar is not sealed properly. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Tips for Success
- Use a good quality pectin: Pectin is a natural thickener that helps the filling set properly. If you’re using cornstarch or tapioca flour, make sure to use enough to achieve the desired consistency.
- Don’t overcook the apples: Overcooked apples will become mushy and lose their flavor. Aim for a tender but still slightly firm texture.
- Use a wide-mouth funnel: This will help prevent spills and make filling the jars easier.
- Label and date your jars: This will help you keep track of your homemade filling and ensure it’s used within its shelf life.
Enjoying Your Jarred Apple Pie Filling
With your homemade apple pie filling ready to go, the possibilities are endless! Here are a few ideas to inspire your baking:
- Classic Apple Pie: The obvious choice! Simply pour the filling into a pie crust and bake until golden brown.
- Apple Crisp: Top your favorite crumble topping with a layer of apple pie filling for a warm and comforting dessert.
- Apple Cobbler: This classic dessert is perfect for a crowd and can be made with or without a crust.
- Apple Muffins: Add a dollop of apple pie filling to your muffin batter for a burst of flavor.
- Apple Pancakes: Enjoy a sweet and satisfying breakfast with a stack of pancakes topped with your homemade filling.
A Sweet Farewell: Embracing the Joy of Homemade
Jarring your own apple pie filling is a rewarding experience that allows you to savor the flavors of fall throughout the year. By using fresh ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create a delicious and convenient pantry staple that will bring joy to your kitchen and your taste buds.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Can I use frozen apples for jarred apple pie filling?
A: While you can use frozen apples, they may release more moisture during cooking, which can affect the consistency of the filling. You may need to adjust the amount of thickener used.
Q: How long does homemade apple pie filling last?
A: Properly sealed jars of homemade apple pie filling can last up to a year in a cool, dark place.
Q: Can I freeze homemade apple pie filling?
A: Yes, you can freeze homemade apple pie filling for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before using it.
Q: What are some other fruits that can be jarred in a similar way?
A: Many other fruits can be preserved using similar methods, such as berries, peaches, and plums. Experiment with different combinations to create your own unique flavors.
Q: Can I use a pressure cooker to can apple pie filling?
A: Yes, you can use a pressure cooker to can apple pie filling. This method requires a shorter processing time but requires a bit more specialized equipment.
