Homemade Apple Recipes for Fall: Pie Filling, Jellies, and More

Homemade apple recipes are the perfect way to welcome fall into your kitchen!

As the leaves start to turn and the air grows crisp, it’s the perfect time to make the most of this season’s sweet, tangy apples. From warm baked goods to pantry staples you can enjoy all year, there’s something here for every taste and skill level.

Whether you’re stirring up a cozy apple pie spice blend, canning classic apple pie filling, or whipping up apple butter, these recipes will fill your kitchen with the aromas of autumn. You can also try homemade applesauce, apple jelly, or even a batch of soft, spiced apple cider donut bread for a treat everyone will love.

Check out some other homemade recipes in our Cooking From Scratch hub.

homemade apple treats, apple cider donut bread, applesauce, canned apple pie filling

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This roundup is full of tried-and-true favorites, easy enough for beginners but delicious enough to impress the whole family. Stock your pantry, warm your oven, and celebrate the best flavors of fall! Grab some of these recipes to enjoy now, and water bath can some for later, when apple season is long gone.

3 jars of homemade apple pie spice with a cinnamon stick leaning against them

Apple Pie Spice Blend

This homemade apple pie spice blend combines warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice for the perfect cozy flavor. Ideal for pies, crisps, oatmeal, and more—it’s quick to make, uses pantry staples, and stores beautifully. A must-have for fall baking and beyond!

Check out this recipe

mini loaves of apple cider donut bread in a white bowl

Apple Cider Donut Bread – Mini Loaf Version

A cozy quick bread that tastes just like a classic apple cider donut! This Apple Cider Donut Bread is bursting with fall flavor thanks to real apple cider and warm spices. It’s easy to make and topped with a buttery cinnamon sugar crust.

Check out this recipe

Apple Pie Filling

This recipe shows you how to preserve apple pie filling for year-round use, whether by freezing or canning. It’s a convenient way to have homemade pie filling ready whenever you need it, with simple ingredients and easy methods for long-lasting storage. Perfect for busy bakers who want to enjoy fresh, homemade pies throughout the year!

Check out this recipe

Apple Butter and Canning Instructions

This homemade apple butter recipe brings the cozy flavors of fall to your kitchen with a smooth, spiced spread that’s perfect for toast, muffins, and more. Made with fresh apples and gently simmered to concentrate the natural sweetness, it’s easy to prepare and preserves beautifully using waterbath canning. Whether you're new to canning or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy apples year-round.

Check out this recipe

Unsweetened Applesauce

This simple homemade applesauce is a delicious and healthy treat that's easy to make! You'll need just a few ingredients: fresh apples and water, with optional lemon juice or spices for extra flavor. Enjoy your applesauce warm or chilled, or use it in baking and cooking for a natural sweetness. Perfect for snacks or as a side dish, this versatile recipe is a great way to use up extra apples!

Check out this recipe

Apple Jelly with Apple Juice

This homemade apple jelly recipe is a simple and delicious way to preserve the fresh, fruity taste of apples. Made with apple juice, sugar, and pectin, this jelly is perfect for spreading on toast, drizzling over desserts, or adding a sweet touch to your favorite recipes. Whether you use bottled or canned apple juice, this recipe is easy to follow and results in a beautifully smooth, flavorful jelly that captures the essence of autumn in every bite.

Check out this recipe

Helpful Tools for Apple Recipes

Making the most of fresh apples is so much easier when you have the right tools on hand. These are some of my favorites that I use often in my own kitchen:

Apple Corer/Slicer – Speeds up prep by removing the core and cutting apples into even slices in one quick step.
Large Mixing Bowls – Perfect for tossing apple slices with sugar and spices without making a mess.
Baking Dish & Pie Pan – Reliable glass or ceramic dishes are musts for cobblers, crisps, pies, and baked apple recipes.
Food Mill – Makes smooth applesauce quickly by separating peels and seeds with almost no effort.
Water Bath Canner and Canning Supplies – If you’re preserving apples for later, jars, lids, and a water bath canner are kitchen essentials.

With these tools, you’ll be ready to tackle any of the recipes in this roundup with confidence!

Explore More Fall Recipes

Now that we have apple recipes out of the way, check out some of these pumpkin recipes!

FAQs About Apple Recipes

What are the best apples for baking?

Apples that hold their shape and balance sweet-tart flavor work best, like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Jonagold, or Braeburn.

Can I substitute one type of apple for another?

Yes! Just keep in mind that sweeter apples may make the recipe taste richer, while tart apples add brightness. Mixing varieties often gives the best flavor.

How long do homemade apple recipes last?

Most baked apple desserts last 3–4 days covered in the fridge. Canned apple recipes are shelf-stable for up to a year when properly processed.

Do I need to peel apples before baking?

Usually, recipes call for peeled apples for a softer, smoother texture. You can leave them on for extra fiber and texture.

Can I freeze apple desserts?

Yes! Most pies, crisps, and sauces freeze well for 3–6 months. Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Ready to Bake with Apples? 🍎

With so many delicious apple recipes to choose from, why not try one today and see which becomes your new favorite? I’d love to hear in the comments which recipe you made and how it turned out! For even more inspiration, explore our From Scratch Desserts and Food Preservation pages, where you’ll find plenty of cozy, homemade recipes and preserving tips to keep apple season flavors going all year long.