How to Make Pie Filling from Fresh Apples (Easy & Freezer-Friendly)

If you’ve ever wondered how to make pie filling from fresh apples, you’re in the right place. This easy recipe is my go-to for all things fall baking. Made with crisp apples, warm cinnamon, and just the right amount of sweetness, this homemade apple pie filling is soft, flavorful, and totally make-ahead friendly.

Whether you’re prepping for Thanksgiving, baking up a pie, or filling mini tarts, this filling is easy to make and freezes beautifully for later. Once you try it, you won’t want to use canned again.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Apple Pie Filling

• Uses fresh apples for the best flavor and texture
• Pre-cooked filling means no crunchy apples in your pie
• Freezes well so you can prep ahead
• Perfectly sweetened with honey and sugar
• Works in pies, crisps, hand pies, and more

Why I Always Cook Apple Pie Filling First

I used to be team “dump the apples straight into the crust,” but once I started cooking the filling first, everything changed. Now it’s the only way I make apple pie. Here’s why:

• Soft, tender apples every time: No more guessing if they’ll cook through in the oven.
• Thicker, more flavorful filling: Cooking the apples helps the juices release and mix with the sugar, flour, and spices to create a sauce that actually sticks to the apples.
• No watery mess: Raw apples can release a lot of liquid while baking, which can lead to soggy bottoms and runny pie. Pre-cooking helps prevent that.
• Better flavor: The spices and honey coat every slice of apple so each bite is perfectly seasoned.

Once you see the difference in texture and taste, you’ll never go back to raw apple filling. It’s one extra step, but it’s totally worth it.

What You Can Make With This Apple Pie Filling

Once you’ve made this easy homemade pie filling, here’s how to use it:

• Mini Apple Pies – handheld, flaky, and always a crowd-pleaser
• Mini Dutch Apple Pies – buttery crumble topping, made in a muffin tin
• Dutch Apple Pie (Full Size) – the easiest pie for the holidays

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Apple Pie Filling

• 1/3 cup butter
• 5 cups peeled and chopped apples
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Pie Filling from Fresh Apples

1. Sauté the Apples

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the apples and lemon juice. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.

2. Add Flavor and Thicken

Stir in sugar, honey, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla. Cook for 4 to 5 more minutes until the mixture thickens and the apples are tender.

3. Cool and Use

Let the filling cool before adding to any pie crust, tart shell, or crisp topping. If freezing, let it cool completely before storing.

Can You Freeze Homemade Apple Pie Filling?

Yes! You can absolutely freeze this filling. It’s one of my favorite ways to prep for the holidays.

To freeze:

• Let the cooked filling cool completely
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container
• Label and freeze for up to 3 months
• Thaw in the fridge overnight before using

Whether you’re making a Dutch apple pie or mini pies, this frozen filling works just as well as fresh.

Tips for Easy Homemade Apple Pie Filling

• Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for best flavor
• Dice apples evenly so they cook at the same rate
• Pre-cooked filling means no guesswork and no crunchy apples
• Cool before filling crusts to avoid soggy bottoms

Apple Pie Filling FAQs

Now that you know how to make pie filling from fresh apples, you’re ready to bake up all kinds of cozy desserts this season. This filling adds the perfect soft, spiced flavor to everything it touches.

Make a batch now, and freeze some for later. You’ll be so glad you did!