One of the best things about fall is all the delicious pies you get to eat. And while buying a pre-made pie crust or even a whole pie is easier, nothing beats a homemade pie.
Sure, there are lots of other ways you can process and preserve your apples. I make a ton of canned applesauce and freeze apples for baking later on in the season. But again, there’s nothing quite like a fresh, homemade apple pie.
Making your own apple pie filling is actually pretty easy – and canning it means you can have fresh apple pie filling any time you want!
Plus, it’s much less labor-intensive when it comes time to bake your pie. Just fill the crust with a few jars of apple pie filling, pop it in the oven, and you’re good to go.
Not to mention, apple pie filling can be used for stuff besides just pies, too – things like apple cobbler, crisp, and even as a yogurt or ice cream topping.
Ready to get started with making and canning your own apple pie filling? Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it.
Hey there, kitchen warriors! Ever found yourself eyeballin’ a can of apple pie filling in the back of your pantry, wondering, “Is this still good, or am I about to poison my fam?” Well, I’ve been there, and I’m here to spill the beans on how long does canned apple pie filling last. Spoiler alert: it’s got a pretty sweet shelf life if you treat it right! We’re talkin’ 2-3 years for store-bought cans unopened, sometimes even 3-5 years past the “best by” date if stored proper. Homemade? About a year. Once opened, you’ve got 5-7 days in the fridge or up to 6 months if you freeze it. Stick with me, and I’ll break it all down with tips, tricks, and some yummy ideas to use that stuff up!
Let’s dive right into the nitty-gritty of canned apple pie filling shelf life storage hacks, and how to tell if it’s gone bad. Plus I’ll throw in some killer ways to use it that ain’t just pie. Grab a coffee, and let’s chat!
Understanding the Shelf Life of Canned Apple Pie Filling
First things first, let’s get real about how long canned apple pie filling lasts I know we all love the convenience of poppin’ open a can for a quick dessert, but time ain’t always on our side if we don’t store it right.
- Store-Bought Canned Apple Pie Filling: If that can’s unopened and sittin’ pretty in a cool, dry spot, it can last 2-3 years easy. Heck, I’ve seen some last up to 5 years beyond the printed “best by” date if the conditions are perfect. That date on the can? It’s more about peak quality than safety, so don’t panic if it’s a tad old.
- Homemade Canned Apple Pie Filling: Now, if you’ve gone all DIY and canned your own apple pie filling, props to ya! But, it usually lasts shorter—around 1 year—since there’s no fancy preservatives like the store stuff. Gotta make sure your canning game is tight for max shelf life.
Here’s a quick lil’ table to keep things straight
| Type | Unopened Shelf Life | Opened Shelf Life (Fridge) | Frozen Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|---|
| Store-Bought Apple Pie Filling | 2-3 years (up to 5 past date) | 5-7 days | Up to 6 months |
| Homemade Apple Pie Filling | About 1 year | 5-7 days | Up to 6 months |
Now, shelf life ain’t just a number on a can. There’s a bunch of stuff that messes with how long your canned apple pie filling stays good. Let’s break that down next, ‘cause I don’t want y’all tossin’ out perfectly good filling—or worse, eatin’ somethin’ nasty.
What Affects the Shelf Life of Canned Apple Pie Filling?
I’ve had my fair share of pantry disasters, and trust me, not all cans are created equal when it comes to lasting power. Here’s what plays a big role in how long that canned apple pie filling hangs on:
- Storage Conditions: This is huge, folks. If you’re stashing your cans in a hot, humid garage, you’re askin’ for trouble. Heat and moisture can mess with the can’s seal and speed up spoilage. Keep ‘em in a cool, dry place—think pantry or cupboard with temps between 50°F and 70°F. No direct sunlight neither, ‘cause that can heat things up.
- Can Integrity: Check that can before you even think about usin’ it. Dents, rust, or—God forbid—a swollen can are bad news. That could mean contamination or bacteria gettin’ cozy inside. I once found a dented can in my stash, and lemme tell ya, I didn’t take the risk. Straight to the trash!
- Ingredients and Preservatives: Store-bought canned apple pie filling often got preservatives to keep it fresh longer. Homemade versions? Not so much, unless you’re addin’ somethin’ special. Natural ingredients can break down faster, so keep that in mind if you’ve canned your own.
So, we know how long it should last, but how do ya know if it’s still good? Let’s talk about spottin’ spoilage, ‘cause food safety ain’t no joke.
How to Tell If Your Canned Apple Pie Filling Has Gone Bad
Ain’t nothin’ worse than cracking open a can of apple pie filling, only to get hit with a funky smell or weird look. Before you use it, give it the once-over with these checks. I’ve learned the hard way, and I’m sharin’ my wisdom so you don’t gotta.
- Inspect the Can: Right off the bat, look at the can itself. Any dents, rust, or leaks? Toss it. A swollen can is a major red flag—could be bacteria buildin’ up gas inside. Don’t even think about openin’ it; just get rid of it safely.
- Smell Test: Once you pop that lid, take a whiff. Good apple pie filling should smell sweet and apple-y, maybe with a hint of cinnamon. If it smells sour, fermented, or just plain off, don’t risk it. I’ve sniffed some weird stuff before, and trust me, your nose knows.
- Check the Look: Peek at the filling. Does it look normal, or is there weird discoloration? If it’s got a funky color or you see mold (yuck!), it’s done for. Also, if it’s super watery or slimy, that’s a sign somethin’ ain’t right.
- Texture Test: If it passes the smell and look test, check how it feels. Slimy or overly mushy beyond normal? That’s spoilage, my friend. Fresh filling should have some texture from the apple bits.
If any of these are off, don’t play hero. Chuck it out. Food poisoning ain’t worth a pie, no matter how bad you’re cravin’ it. But what if the date’s passed, and it looks okay? Can you still use it? Let’s tackle that next.
Can You Use Canned Apple Pie Filling After the Expiration Date?
Alright, let’s chat about that “best by” or expiration date on your canned apple pie filling. I’ve stared down many an old can, wonderin’ if I’m pushin’ my luck. Here’s the deal: that date is more about quality than safety. If stored right, and the can ain’t damaged, it can often be safe way past that date.
- Quality vs. Safety: The “best by” stamp is when the maker thinks it’ll taste freshest. After that, the flavor or texture might dip a bit—maybe the apples ain’t as crisp—but it don’t mean it’s dangerous. I’ve used cans a year past the date, and they baked up just fine.
- Inspection is Key: Before you use old filling, do all them checks I mentioned. Can good? Smell fine? Looks right? Then you’re prob’ly okay. But if you taste it and it’s off, spit it out and bin it. Don’t gamble with your gut.
- Trust Your Instincts: I always say, if somethin’ feels wrong, don’t eat it. Better safe than sorry, right? Keep track of your pantry stash so you’re not playin’ guessin’ games with ancient cans.
Now that we’ve got safety covered, let’s talk storage. ‘Cause how you keep your canned apple pie filling makes a huge diff in how long it lasts.
How to Properly Store Canned Apple Pie Filling
Storage is where it’s at if you wanna max out the shelf life of your canned apple pie filling. I’ve got some tricks up my sleeve from years of hoardin’ pantry goods, so listen up!
Before Opening
- Keep It Cool and Dry: Stick unopened cans in a pantry or cupboard where the temp stays steady, ideally 50°F to 70°F. Don’t let ‘em sit in a hot attic or damp basement—rust and heat are your enemies.
- No Sunlight: Direct sun can heat up the cans and mess with the contents. Keep ‘em in a dark spot for best results.
- Store Upright: Layin’ cans on their side can sometimes mess with the seal or cause leaks if there’s a tiny flaw. Keep ‘em standin’ tall.
After Opening
- Transfer It Quick: Once you crack that can open, don’t leave leftovers in there. Metal can mess with the flavor, and it ain’t airtight no more. Scoop it into a glass or plastic container with a tight lid.
- Refrigerate Promptly: Pop that container in the fridge right away. It’ll stay good for 5-7 days if sealed tight. I’ve pushed it to a week before, and it was fine, but don’t tempt fate too long.
- Freezing for the Win: Can’t use it in a week? Freeze it! Dump the filling into freezer-safe bags or containers, leavin’ a bit of space at the top ‘cause it expands when frozen. It’ll last up to 6 months this way. I’ve got a stash in my freezer right now for emergency desserts!
Proper storage means you’re not wastin’ food, and who don’t love that? Now, let’s get to the fun part—usin’ that canned apple pie filling in ways that’ll blow your mind.
Creative Ways to Use Canned Apple Pie Filling (Beyond Just Pie!)
Okay, so you’ve got canned apple pie filling, and yeah, pie is the obvious go-to. But why stop there? I’ve experimented with this stuff in all kinda ways, and lemme tell ya, it’s a game-changer for quick eats. Here’s some ideas to get your creative juices flowin’:
1. Apple Crisp—Easy Peasy Dessert
This is my fave when I’m feelin’ lazy but wanna impress. Apple crisp with canned filling is stupid simple.
- Grab a baking dish and dump in your canned apple pie filling.
- Mix up some oats, flour, brown sugar, and a stick of butter ‘til it’s crumbly. Sprinkle that goodness over the top.
- Bake at 350°F for about 30-40 minutes ‘til it’s golden and bubblin’. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’re golden!
2. Stuffed Pancakes—Breakfast Upgrade
Wanna make breakfast a lil’ extra? Stuff them pancakes with apple pie filling!
- Whip up your usual pancake batter.
- Pour a small circle on the griddle, then plop a spoonful of filling in the middle.
- Cover with a bit more batter and cook ‘til both sides are golden brown. Drizzle with syrup, and watch folks lose their minds.
3. Ice Cream Topping—Sweet Treat Hack
This one’s for when you’re cravin’ somethin’ sweet but ain’t got time to bake.
- Warm up a bit of canned apple pie filling in the microwave or on the stove.
- Scoop some vanilla ice cream into a bowl and spoon that warm filling over it. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon if you’re feelin’ fancy. It’s like apple pie a la mode without the hassle!
4. Apple Muffins—Grab-and-Go Goodness
I’ve tossed canned apple pie filling into muffin batter for a quick snack, and it’s a hit with my crew.
- Mix up a basic muffin batter (flour, sugar, baking powder, egg, milk, oil—you know the drill).
- Fold in some drained apple pie filling so it ain’t too wet.
- Scoop into a muffin tin and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes. Perfect for breakfast or packin’ in lunches.
5. Oatmeal Topper—Cozy Mornin’ Vibes
When it’s chilly out, I love jazzin’ up my oatmeal with this stuff.
- Cook your oatmeal as usual, whether it’s instant or old-fashioned.
- Stir in a spoonful of canned apple pie filling for sweetness and flavor. Sprinkle some nuts on top if you’ve got ‘em. It’s like dessert for breakfast, and I’m here for it!
6. Quick Danish—Fake It ‘Til You Make It
Got some crescent roll dough? You’re halfway to a fancy pastry.
- Roll out the dough and cut into triangles.
- Place a dollop of apple pie filling in the center, roll ‘em up, and bake as per the package (usually 375°F for 10-12 minutes).
- Drizzle with a lil’ glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Looks like you slaved away, but nah, it’s easy!
There’s so many more ways to use canned apple pie filling—think cobblers, tarts, or even mixin’ it into yogurt for a quick snack. I could go on forever, but let’s just say it’s a versatile lil’ ingredient that’s saved my butt on busy days.
Tips and Tricks for Making the Most of Canned Apple Pie Filling
Before I let ya go, here’s a few extra nuggets of wisdom from my kitchen to yours. These lil’ tips have helped me stretch my canned apple pie filling stash and keep things tasty.
- Mix Up Flavors: If your filling feels a bit bland after sittin’ a while, toss in a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg before usin’ it. Freshens it right up!
- Drain If Needed: Some recipes don’t need all that syrupy goo. If you’re makin’ somethin’ like muffins, drain off some liquid so it don’t get soggy.
- Batch Freezing: When freezin’, portion it out in small bags or containers. That way, you ain’t thawin’ a giant lump when you just need a cup for a recipe.
- Label Everything: I’ve forgotten what’s what in my freezer before, and it’s a pain. Slap a label with the date on anything you freeze or store, so you know how long it’s been there.
Wrapping Up: Keep That Apple Pie Filling Game Strong!
So, there ya have it—everything you need to know about how long does canned apple pie filling last and how to make the most of it. Whether it’s sittin’ unopened in your pantry for 2-3 years (or more), chillin’ in the fridge for a week, or stashed in the freezer for months, you’ve got the power to keep it fresh and safe. Just remember to store it right, check for spoilage, and don’t be scared to use it past the date if it passes the sniff test.
And hey, don’t just stick to pie! Get wild with apple crisps, pancake stuffin’, or ice cream toppers. I’ve shared my go-to ideas, but I bet you’ve got some tricks too. Drop ‘em in the comments if you’re feelin’ chatty—I’d love to hear how you’re usin’ your canned apple pie filling!
Keep your pantry stocked and your kitchen rockin’, folks. ‘Til next time, happy bakin’!
Do You Need to Blanch the Apples?
The jury is kind of out on this one, but most recipes call for blanching your apples before you load them into the jars.
Even though you’ll be “cooking” the apples during the canning process and then again once you bake the pie, the blanching will preheat the apples and help remove air.
This will get rid of a lot of extra space in your canning jars so that the jars are filled nicely and to capacity.
Is it Safe to Water Bath Can Apple Pie Filling?
Water bath canning is a process of preserving food in jars by submerging them in boiling water.
This method is typically used for high-acid foods like fruits, pickles, jams, and tomato-based sauces.
Low-acid foods like vegetables, meat, and seafood must be pressure canned in order to be safe.
So what does this have to do with apple pie filling? Most commercially-prepared apple pie fillings are made with a combination of apples, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
Because of the acidity of the lemon juice, water bath canning is safe for this type of filling, even when you’re doing it at home.
I don’t recommend processing it in a pressure canner. Why?
For starters, the National Center for Home Food Preservation does not have an approved recipe for this.
You could always wing it and process the apple pie filling for the same pressure and time that you would other types of apple products, like applesauce (which do have recommended guidelines under the National Center for Home Food Preservation).
However, it’s still not a great idea.
Some pressure canner manufacturers recommend against processing even applesauce in their canners (even though there is an approved recipe) because the high heat and pressure causes the apples to foam and bubble up.
Often, they spill out over the jars and can cause the vent pipe to clog up on your canner – leading to even more problems.
It doesn’t take long to water a bath with apple pie filling, and honestly, it’s easier. Just go that route!
There are a few things you should keep in mind when canning your own apple pie filling at home.
First of all, be sure to use fresh, ripe apples. Overripe apples are more likely to turn mushy during the canning process.
Second, use a light hand with the sugar. Too much sugar can prevent the filling from setting properly.
And finally, don’t forget the lemon juice! Without it, your filling may not be acidic enough to safely water the bath can.
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FAQ
How long can canned pie filling last?
How long does apple pie filling last after the expiration date?
How long does apple pie filling keep?
Place the apple pie filling in a container of your choice (mason jars, air-tight containers or a large bowl) and refrigerate up to 5 days or place into gallon …Nov 22, 2020
How long does uncooked pie filling last in the fridge?
Pumpkin, custard, or other egg/dairy-based pies can be stored in the fridge for up to four days. Pie dough will last for two to three days in the fridge, or up to three months in the freezer. If you’re making the crust and the filling ahead, keep them separated until it’s time to bake your pie.
How long does canned apple pie filling last?
But if you have a can that’s been sitting in your pantry for a while, you may be wondering how long it will stay good for. The shelf life of canned apple pie filling varies depending on the brand and storage conditions. In general, unopened canned apple pie filling can last for 1-2 years when stored in a cool, dark place.
Can canned apple pie filling be stored in the pantry?
Yes, unopened canned apple pie filling can be stored in the pantry as long as it’s in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and excessive heat. 6. Can I Use Canned Apple Pie Filling Beyond the Expiration Date?
Can apple pie filling be refrigerated?
Once opened, the filling should be refrigerated and used within 7-10 days. It’s always important to check the expiration date on the can before using the filling, and to discard it if there are any signs of spoilage such as an off smell, appearance, or texture. 1. Can I Freeze Canned Apple Pie Filling?
Can you use expired apple pie filling?
It is not recommended to use expired canned apple pie filling, as it may lead to foodborne illness. Always check the expiration date and discard if it’s past its prime. 3.
Can you use canned apple pie filling?
Apple pie filling is very versatile. It can be used to make fried apples, apple sauce, or used as a topping. How long does canned apple pie filling last? It is recommended by the National Center for Home Food Preservation that all home canned food be eaten within one year.
Can you freeze canned apple pie filling?
Yes, you can freeze unopened canned apple pie filling for up to 12 months. Once opened, it’s recommended to use it within 7-10 days or transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. 2. Can I Use Expired Canned Apple Pie Filling?