Apple Pie Filling

6 qt sliced fresh apples
5 1/2 C sugar
1 1/2 C clear gel
1 TB cinnamon
2 1/2 C cold water
5 C Apple juice
3/4 C bottled lemon juice
7 drops of food coloring (optional)

Use firm, crisp apples. If apples lack tartness use an additional 1/4 c of lemon juice for each 6 quarts of slices.

Procedure:
Wash, peel and core apples. Prepare slices 1/2 inc wide and place in water containing ascorbic acid to prevent browning.

For fresh fruit, place 6 cups at a time in 1 gallon of boiling water.

Boil each batch 1 minute after the water returns to a boil. drain, but keep heated fruit in a covered bowl or pot. Combine sugar, clear gel and cinnamon in a large kettle with water and apple juice. (if you put the liquids in first and whisk in the sugar and clear gel already combined it doesn't lump as much). If desired, food coloring may be added. Stir and cook on medium high heat until mixture thickens and begins to bubble. Add lemon juice an boil 1 minute, stirring constantly. Fold in drained apples slices immediately and fill jars with mixture without delay, leaving 1 inch head space. Adjust lids and process immediately for 35 minutes in a water bath.