Apple Pie Filling Canning Recipe Ball Tips Made Easy

There’s something truly magical about homemade apple pie filling, especially when you can preserve that fresh, sweet, and spiced flavor all year round through canning. Whether you’re a seasoned canner or just starting, this Apple Pie Filling Canning Recipe by Ball is a perfect way to capture the essence of fall in a jar.

Imagine opening a jar of your very own apple pie filling during the cold winter months and whipping up a delicious pie, crisp, or even a comforting oatmeal topping in minutes.

This recipe is straightforward, uses simple pantry ingredients, and follows Ball’s trusted guidelines to ensure safety and quality. Plus, canning your own apple pie filling means you control the sweetness and spice level, making it healthier and customized to your taste.

Dive into this rewarding kitchen project and enjoy the fruits of your labor long after apple season has passed!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This apple pie filling recipe is a game-changer for home cooks and canners alike. Here’s why:

• Preserves seasonal apples at their peak freshness so you can enjoy them all year.
• Customizable sweetness and spice lets you tailor your pie filling to your preferences.
• Perfect for quick desserts without the hassle of peeling and cooking apples from scratch.
• Ball’s trusted canning method guarantees safe and long-lasting storage.
• Great for gifting in beautiful jars or stocking up your pantry.

Ingredients

• 8 cups peeled, cored, and sliced tart apples (about 6 pounds)
• 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 1/2 cups water
• 3/4 cup clear jel or other canning-approved thickener

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Ball canning jars (quart size recommended)
• Ball canning lids and bands
• Water bath canner or large stockpot with rack
• Jar lifter and canning funnel
• Sharp paring knife or apple peeler/corer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
• Clean kitchen towels

Instructions

1. Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and slice your apples into even slices about 1/4 inch thick. To prevent browning, place them in a large bowl of water with the lemon juice.
2. Make the syrup: In a large pot, combine water, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves (if using), and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Thicken the syrup: Slowly whisk in the Clear Jel thickener until fully incorporated and smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Add apples: Drain apples from lemon water and add them to the syrup mixture. Simmer gently for 5 minutes to soften slightly but not mushy.
5. Prepare jars: While apples are simmering, sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them in hot water or running them through the dishwasher cycle.
6. Fill jars: Using a canning funnel, pack the apple pie filling into hot jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Use a non-metallic utensil to remove air bubbles by gently stirring around the jar sides.
7. Seal jars: Wipe rims clean with a damp cloth. Place lids on jars and screw on bands fingertip-tight.
8. Process jars: Place jars in a water bath canner with simmering water covering jars by at least 1 inch. Bring water to a boil and process for 25 minutes (adjust for altitude if needed).
9. Cool jars: Remove jars carefully using a jar lifter and place on a towel-lined surface. Let cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours.
10. Check seals: Press the center of each lid; it should not flex up and down. Remove bands for storage and wipe jars clean.

Tips & Variations

“For a spicier kick, increase the cinnamon or add a pinch of ground ginger.”

• Apple Variety: Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
• Thickener Alternatives: If you prefer, use cornstarch but note the filling will not hold as well after canning.
• Spices: Adjust ground spices to your taste, or add a vanilla bean for extra warmth.
• Sweetness: Reduce sugar for a tarter filling or use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup (note: these may affect preservation times).
• Jar Sizes: Quart jars are perfect for large pies, but pint jars work well for smaller portions or gifts.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This canned apple pie filling is incredibly versatile and ready to transform your desserts and breakfasts:

• Use it as a classic pie filling for a homemade apple pie anytime.
• Top pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal with warm apple pie filling for a comforting morning meal.
• Mix into yogurt or cottage cheese for a sweet twist.
• Heat and serve over vanilla ice cream for an easy apple crisp alternative.
• Use as a filling for turnovers, hand pies, or even crepes.

Conclusion

Canning your own apple pie filling is a rewarding and practical way to enjoy the warm, spiced flavors of fall all year long. This Ball recipe makes the process approachable for beginners and gives you a delicious, ready-to-use filling that’s perfect for a variety of meals and treats.

The satisfaction of opening a jar of your homemade filling in the middle of winter is truly unmatched.

Plus, the ability to customize sweetness and spices means you can make it exactly how you like it. If you’re looking to expand your kitchen repertoire further, be sure to check out other great recipes like the Apple Pie Smoothie Vegetarian Recipe for Healthy Mornings, or for savory meal ideas, try the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide.

For plant-based comfort food, the Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food is sure to please.

Happy canning, and enjoy the taste of homemade apple goodness all year round!

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