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If its October, it must be time for all things apple, like apple pie filling. This October has been beautiful so far. Gorgeous days, the leaves turning an array of fall colors and all of the farm fields turning that deep shade of golden brown. Driving on the back roads the other day I had to keep reminding myself to keep my eyes on the road! It’s the perfect time of year for a long meandering drive, and if you haven’t taken one yet – do it!  But you know, maybe take turns driving with a friend so nobody veers off the road.

And while you’re on your way, keep an eye out for orchards and apple stands. It’s apple season and they taste amazing this year. Even my dog, who has previously turned his nose up at apples, is happily munching away on them these days.

So I couldn’t resist trying my hand at an apple pie filling recipe. I’ve never liked the kind that comes in a can, but I’ve always been a little bit intimidated at making a homemade version. Now? I have no idea why I didn’t do this before. It’s so easy, and you can adjust the sugar and spice levels to suit your tastes. You can also experiment with different kinds of apples, or use this guide to help you decide.

Apple Pie Filling

To make this you will need:

• 5 cups apples
• ½ cup apple cider
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon vanilla
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 pinch of nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water

You’ll want to start by peeling and coring the apples. Then cut them up. Decide how small you want them based on what you’re using the filling for. I was planning to put this in small little cookie cups, so I diced the apples pretty small.  Just try to make sure you cut them to roughly the same size, as that will make sure they cook evenly.

Then in a pot over medium heat, pour your apple cider, butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir occasionally while heating until mixture is incorporated and warm. About 1-2 minutes.

Then pour your apples into the pot and cover with a lid. Cook until soft. For my little chunks this was only a little over 5 minutes, but if you’ve cut your apples larger, it could take more like 8 minutes. Test the apple chunks tenderness by sticking them with a fork.

While you wait for them to cook, mix your cornstarch and water in a small dish. Make sure to eliminate any lumps.

Once the apples are soft, add in your cornstarch mixture while stirring. Once it’s completely mixed in, cook apples for an additional 2 minutes until sauce thickens. Take off the stove, and allow to cool. Then use in your pies, on your ice cream, or all by itself with a little dollop of whipped cream on top!