Thick Apple Filling

Source: https://gemini.google.com/app/a4f45570d8e45360

Ingredients:

- 4-5 large apples (peeled and diced)

- 3 tbsp unsalted butter

- 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)

- 1 tsp ground cinnamon

- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

- 1 tbsp lemon juice

- 1/2 cup water (divided, 2 tablespoons separately)

- 1 tbsp cornstarch (dissolved in 2 tbsp of the water to create a slurry)

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the 3 tbsp of butter. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and all but 2 tablespoons of the water.

Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples start to soften but still hold their shape.

Whisk the cornstarch into the remaining 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. Pour this slurry into the simmering apples.

Stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes. The liquid will quickly bubble and thicken into a glossy, jammy glaze. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and let it cool completely.