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The Best Homemade Stovetop Apple Pie Filling with Brown Sugar

Close-up of thick, glossy, spiced apple pie filling slices in a small white bowl.

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Make thick, spiced, and tender apple pie filling on the stovetop. This recipe uses brown sugar for deep flavor and works well for pies, crisps, or as a topping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
  • 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions

  1. Peel, core, and slice the apples into 1/4-inch thick pieces. Place the slices in a large saucepan.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
  3. Add the water and lemon juice to the saucepan with the apples. Stir gently to coat.
  4. Sprinkle the dry sugar and spice mixture over the apples. Stir again until everything is evenly combined.
  5. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to bubble and thicken, about 8 to 10 minutes. The apples should be tender but still hold their shape.
  6. Once the filling has thickened to your liking, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the butter until it melts completely.
  7. Let the apple pie filling cool slightly before using it in your pie crust or as a topping.

Notes

  • For a thicker glaze, cook for a few extra minutes until the sauce coats the back of a spoon heavily.
  • Use a mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for the best texture and flavor balance.
  • This filling can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • Use this versatile apple filling recipe over pancakes, waffles, or ice cream.

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