Canning apples is a fantastic way to preserve the delicious flavors of the season while ensuring you have ready-to-use ingredients for your favorite desserts, especially apple pie. Whether you want spiced apples or plain apple slices, this Apple Canning Recipes guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Why Can Apples?
Canning apples is a cost-effective and time-saving way to store this versatile fruit. Once canned, apple slices can be used in pies and crisps, cobblers, oatmeal, and even savory dishes. Properly canned apples retain their flavor and nutritional value for up to a year, making them a reliable pantry staple.
Canned Apples for Pie Recipe
Apple Canning Recipes guide
Ingredients:
- 4–5 pounds of apples (about 10 medium-sized apples, depending on variety)
- 5 cups water or apple juice (or a mix of both)
- 2–3 cups sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional, for added tartness)
- Spices (optional, for pie-ready apples):
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
Tools You’ll Need:
- Large pot or stockpot
- Canning jars (pint or quart size) with lids and bands
- Water bath canner
- Jar lifter
- Funnel
- Peeler and corer
Step-by-Step Guide for Apple Canning Recipes for Pie
1. Choose and Prepare Apples
Select firm, tart apples that hold their shape during cooking. Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Jonathan work well. Wash, peel, core, and slice the apples into uniform wedges about ¼-inch thick.
To prevent browning, soak apple slices in a mixture of water and lemon juice (1 tablespoon of lemon juice per quart of water) while you prepare the syrup.
2. Prepare the Syrup
In a large pot, mix water (or apple juice) and sugar. Adjust the sugar level based on your sweetness preference. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Add spices if you want your canned apples pre-flavored for pie.
3. Cook the Apples
Add the apple slices to the boiling syrup in batches, cooking each batch for 5–6 minutes until just tender. This ensures the apples are partially cooked and will retain their texture after canning.
4. Sterilize the Jars
While the apples are cooking, sterilize your jars. Wash them with hot, soapy water and rinse well. Then, place them in boiling water or a hot oven to keep them warm until ready to use.
5. Pack the Jars
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the hot apple slices into sterilized jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top. Pour the hot syrup over the apples, covering them completely while maintaining the ½-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles by running a non-metallic spatula or chopstick along the jar’s interior.
6. Seal and Process
Wipe the jar rims with a clean, damp cloth to ensure a proper seal. Place the lids on the jars and tighten the bands just until fingertip-tight.
Place the jars in a water bath canner, ensuring they’re fully submerged in water. Process pint jars for 20 minutes and quart jars for 25 minutes (adjusting for altitude if necessary).
7. Cool and Store
Carefully remove the jars from the canner and place them on a towel-lined countertop. Let them cool for 12–24 hours. Check seals by pressing down on the lid’s center—if it doesn’t pop back, the jar is sealed.
Label the jars with the date and store them in a cool, dark place.
Tips for Success
- Apple Texture: To maintain the best texture, avoid overcooking the apples before canning.
- Altitude Adjustment: If you live above 1,000 feet, increase processing time according to altitude charts.
- Safety First: Always use tested recipes and proper canning techniques to prevent spoilage or contamination.
Using Your Canned Apples for Pie
When you’re ready to bake, drain the syrup (or use it as part of your pie’s filling). Add a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken the filling if needed. These pre-spiced and tender apple slices will save you time while delivering the same homemade taste.
With a pantry stocked with canned apples, you’re just a few steps away from a fresh, warm apple pie—no peeling or slicing required!
Tell us in the comments if you like this Apple Canning Recipes Guide or if you want some other yummy recipes.
