Make Ahead Fruit Pie Filling

Get a head start on your favorite pies with this versatile Make Ahead Fruit Pie Filling, perfect for streamlining your dessert prep. Made with a medley of fresh or frozen fruit, a touch of brown and granulated sugar, and a hint of lemon juice for brightness, this filling combines irresistible flavor with convenience. Optional warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add a cozy depth, while a dash of butter elevates the richness. Ready in just 25 minutes, this silky, fruit-packed filling can be refrigerated for up to five days or frozen for up to three months, making it a time-saving secret weapon for homemade pies, cobblers, and crisps. Whether you’re baking a classic apple pie or a vibrant mixed berry tart, this make-ahead recipe promises freshness and flavor every time.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 5 cups fresh or frozen fruit (e.g., apples, berries, peaches, cherries)
• 0.75 cups granulated sugar
• 0.25 cups brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 0.5 cups water
• 0.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon (optional, for warm spices)
• 0.25 teaspoons ground nutmeg (optional, for warm spices)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)

Directions

Step 1

Wash, peel (if needed), and chop the fruit into small pieces. If using frozen fruit, allow it to thaw slightly.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Stir well to ensure no lumps remain.

Step 3

Gradually whisk in the water and lemon juice until a smooth mixture forms.

Step 4

Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble. This will take about 4-5 minutes.

Step 5

Add the prepared fruit into the saucepan, stirring to coat evenly. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the fruit to soften slightly and the flavors to meld.

Step 6

If desired, stir in ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, or butter for added depth of flavor.

Step 7

Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the filling to cool completely before storing.

Step 8

For storage, transfer the filling into an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Step 9

To use the filling, simply thaw (if frozen) and pour into a prepared pie crust, bake as the pie recipe directs, or use as desired for other desserts.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1566.6 grams (1566.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1534

Total Fat 14.20g	18%
Saturated Fat 7.60g	38%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 31mg	10%
Sodium 30mg	1%
Total Carbohydrate 377.50g	137%
Dietary Fiber 29.70g	106%
Total Sugars 305.00g
Protein 6.30g	13%

Vitamin D 9IU	45%
Calcium 128mg	10%
Iron 3mg	16%
Potassium 1364mg	29%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 7.7%

Protein: 1.5%

Carbs: 90.8%