There's nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of apple pie wafting through your kitchen, especially when the leaves start to change. But what if I told you that you could enjoy that delightful scent and flavor year-round? With this simple recipe for apple pie filling using Clear Jel, you can can your own apple pie filling and have it ready to use anytime the craving strikes!
Why Choose Clear Jel for Your Apple Pie Filling?
Clear Jel is a modified cornstarch that excels in canning and preserving, making it the go-to choice for home canners. Unlike regular cornstarch, which can break down and create a watery mess over time, Clear Jel thickens beautifully, ensuring your apple filling retains its delicious texture and taste. It's also heat-stable, meaning it won't lose its thickening power during the canning process.
Fun Fact: A Historical Twist
Did you know that apple pie has been a part of American culture since the early settlers arrived? The phrase "as American as apple pie" came about as a testament to the dessert’s deep roots in American history, representing home, comfort, and family gatherings. Canning apple pie filling keeps that tradition alive, ensuring that anyone can create a slice of Americana anytime!
Ingredients You'll Need
- Apples: Choose a mix of sweet and tart varieties, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for a balanced flavor.
- Clear Jel: Essential for thickening without compromising texture.
- Sugar: Adjust to your taste, but typically around 3/4 cup is standard.
- Cinnamon: A classic spice that enhances the apple flavor; consider adding nutmeg for an extra kick!
- Water: To help dissolve the Clear Jel.
- Lemon Juice: To prevent browning and add a bright note.
- Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
Preparation Tips: Get Started on the Right Foot
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Gather Your Apples: Aim for about 8-10 cups of peeled and sliced apples, which should yield roughly 7 quarts of filling. Be sure to mix varieties for the best flavor profile!
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Prepare Your Jars: Sterilize your canning jars and lids by boiling them in water for about 10 minutes. Keep them hot until you’re ready to fill to ensure a proper seal.
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Mix Your Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Clear Jel, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. This will ensure an even distribution of the thickening agent throughout your filling.
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Cook the Filling: In a large pot, whisk together the water, lemon juice, and your dry mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens. Then, fold in your apple slices and heat for an additional 5-10 minutes until the apples are just tender.
Canning Process: Sealing the Goodness
Now that you have your luscious apple pie filling, it’s time to can it!
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Fill the Jars: Ladle the hot filling into your sterilized jars, leaving about 1-inch headspace. Be sure to remove any air bubbles by gently tapping the jar or using a bubble remover.
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Seal and Process: Wipe the rims of the jars clean to ensure a good seal, then place the sterilized lids on top. Screw on the metal rings until they're fingertip-tight. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 25 minutes (adjusting for altitude if necessary).
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Cool and Store: Once done, allow the jars to cool completely on a clean towel. You’ll hear the delightful "pop" of the jars sealing! Store them in a cool, dark place.
Serving Suggestions: Create Your Own Apple Pie Moments
The beauty of canning apple pie filling is its versatility! Here are a few serving suggestions:
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Classic Apple Pie: The obvious choice! Pour the filling into a pie crust, top with lattice or crumble, and bake until golden and bubbling.
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Apple Crisp: For a faster dessert, combine the filling with a topping of oats, brown sugar, and butter, then bake until crisp.
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Toppings Galore: Use the filling as a delicious topping for pancakes, waffles, or even yogurt for a seasonal treat any time of day.
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Cheesecake Swirl: Marble some filling into your favorite cheesecake recipe for a fabulous flavor twist!
Final Thoughts: A Slice of Comfort in Every Jar
Canning apple pie filling with Clear Jel not only extends the life of your delicious apples but also allows you to savor the warmth of homemade pie all year long. This easy recipe helps you create a lasting culinary tradition, one jar at a time. So grab your aprons, gather your apples, and embark on this delightful canning adventure—your future self will thank you when the apple pie craving hits!
Happy canning! 🍏🥧
