Apple pie filling is a sweet, tangy, and fragrant mixture of apples, sugar, spices, and sometimes lemon juice. When you’ve made a delicious apple pie and find yourself with extra filling, you might wonder how to make the most of it. Thankfully, there are many creative ways to use leftover apple pie filling. Whether you want to bake something new, add a twist to a favorite dish, or make something quick and easy, there are plenty of options. Here’s a detailed guide on what you can make with leftover apple pie filling.
1. Apple Turnovers
Apple turnovers are a simple yet delicious way to use leftover apple pie filling. These sweet pastries are typically made by folding a sheet of puff pastry around the filling and baking until golden brown. The flaky, buttery pastry and warm apple filling make for a perfect treat.
How to make apple turnovers:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out a sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut the pastry into squares (about 4-5 inches on each side).
- Place a spoonful of apple pie filling in the center of each square.
- Fold the pastry over the filling to create a triangle shape and press the edges together with a fork to seal them.
- Brush the top with an egg wash (one beaten egg mixed with a little water).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
2. Apple Crumble or Apple Crisp
An apple crumble (or crisp) is a warm, comforting dessert that’s perfect for using up extra pie filling. The crispy, buttery topping contrasts beautifully with the soft apple filling, making it a delightful treat for any time of the year.
How to make apple crumble:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the leftover apple pie filling in the bottom of a baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of oats, 1 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of cold butter (cut into small cubes), and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon.
- Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix the ingredients until it forms a crumbly texture.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple filling.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the filling is bubbly.
3. Apple Pancakes or Waffles
Apple pie filling can be a great topping for pancakes or waffles, adding sweetness and flavor without the need to make a separate sauce. This is a quick and easy way to enjoy the taste of apple pie for breakfast.
How to use apple pie filling with pancakes or waffles:
- Make your favorite pancake or waffle batter.
- Cook the pancakes or waffles as usual.
- Warm the leftover apple pie filling in a small pot on the stove or in the microwave.
- Spoon the warm apple filling over the pancakes or waffles. Optionally, add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
4. Apple Pie Ice Cream
If you’re a fan of ice cream, you can incorporate leftover apple pie filling into homemade ice cream. The apple filling will add a delicious apple flavor and some soft chunks of apple, creating a fun and tasty dessert.
How to make apple pie ice cream:
- Make or buy vanilla ice cream (softened) or use a homemade ice cream base.
- Chop the leftover apple pie filling into smaller pieces if needed.
- Stir the apple pie filling into the softened ice cream base.
- Optionally, you can add some cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Freeze the mixture until solid. Serve as a unique twist on traditional apple pie.
5. Apple Pie Milkshake
A milkshake made with apple pie filling is a fun and indulgent way to enjoy the flavors of apple pie in a drinkable form. It’s creamy, sweet, and full of apple flavor.
How to make an apple pie milkshake:
- In a blender, combine 2 cups of vanilla ice cream, 1/2 cup of milk, and 1/2 cup of leftover apple pie filling.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the milkshake into a glass and top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a crumble of pie crust for extra texture.
6. Apple Pie Oatmeal
Turn your morning oatmeal into a sweet and satisfying treat by adding leftover apple pie filling. The apples and spices will infuse the oatmeal with delicious flavor, turning a simple breakfast into something special.
How to make apple pie oatmeal:
- Cook your oatmeal according to package instructions.
- Stir in a few spoonfuls of leftover apple pie filling.
- Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a few crushed nuts, or some granola for added crunch.
- Serve warm for a comforting breakfast.
7. Apple Pie Tarts
Mini apple tarts are a great way to use leftover pie filling and create individual portions of a sweet, bite-sized treat. You can make them with pre-made tart shells or homemade pastry for an extra touch.
How to make apple pie tarts:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place mini tart shells on a baking sheet (store-bought or homemade).
- Spoon a small amount of leftover apple pie filling into each tart shell.
- Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
- Let cool before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or serve with a dollop of whipped cream.
8. Apple Pie Smoothie
If you’re looking for a lighter and refreshing way to use leftover apple pie filling, a smoothie is an excellent option. It combines the flavors of apple pie with the coolness of a smoothie, making it a perfect snack.
How to make an apple pie smoothie:
- In a blender, combine 1/2 cup of leftover apple pie filling, 1 banana, 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup of milk (or a non-dairy alternative), and a pinch of cinnamon.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy this healthy twist on apple pie.
9. Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
If you’re a fan of cinnamon rolls, you can take them to the next level by adding apple pie filling inside the dough. The result is a gooey, sweet, and comforting pastry that is perfect for breakfast or dessert.
How to make apple pie cinnamon rolls:
- Prepare or buy cinnamon roll dough (the dough should be rolled out into a large rectangle).
- Spread a layer of leftover apple pie filling over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll the dough tightly and slice it into individual rolls.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and bake according to the cinnamon roll dough instructions.
- Once baked, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for added sweetness.
10. Apple Pie Scones
Apple pie scones are another delightful way to enjoy the flavors of apple pie in a different form. These tender scones, filled with apple pie filling and topped with a sweet glaze, make for a great breakfast or afternoon treat.
How to make apple pie scones:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare scone dough by combining flour, sugar, baking powder, and cold butter. Add milk or cream and mix until a dough forms.
- Gently fold in the leftover apple pie filling.
- Roll the dough into a disc and cut it into wedges.
- Place the scones on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Drizzle with a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk once the scones are cooled.
11. Apple Pie Donuts
For a fun twist on a classic donut, you can fill your donuts with apple pie filling. This will add a rich and flavorful apple cinnamon taste to your donuts.
How to make apple pie donuts:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a donut pan.
- Prepare the donut batter, which typically consists of flour, sugar, eggs, milk, and baking powder.
- Fill the donut pan halfway with the batter, then spoon a small amount of leftover apple pie filling into the center of each donut.
- Cover the filling with the remaining batter.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Once cooled, top with cinnamon sugar or glaze for extra sweetness.
12. Apple Pie Breakfast Bars
Apple pie breakfast bars are perfect for a quick and filling breakfast. The apple pie filling adds natural sweetness, while the oatmeal and spices provide texture and flavor.
How to make apple pie breakfast bars:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan.
- Combine rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and baking powder in a bowl.
- Stir in melted butter, eggs, and a little milk to form a dough.
- Press half of the dough into the bottom of the pan.
- Spread leftover apple pie filling evenly over the dough.
- Top with the remaining dough and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Conclusion
Leftover apple pie filling doesn’t have to go to waste. With a little creativity, you can transform it into a variety of delicious treats, from apple turnovers and tarts to apple pie scones and cinnamon rolls. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a fun dessert, or something in between, the options are endless. So the next time you have extra apple pie filling, don’t hesitate to explore these tasty ideas and enjoy the flavors of apple pie in new and exciting ways!
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