Craving a classic American apple pie but looking to keep it healthy? This recipe is a perfect solution! Made without sugar or butter, and featuring a wholesome oatmeal crust, this pie is both delicious and nutritious. The natural sweetness of apples and honey combined with the warmth of cinnamon makes this dessert a guilt-free pleasure. Whether you’re serving it as a treat or enjoying it for breakfast, this healthy pie is sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your diet on track.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups oatmeal
- 1 egg
For the Filling:
- 2.2 pounds apples (about 4-5 medium apples), peeled, cored, and sliced thinly
- 1 tablespoon natural honey
- 1.8 ounces raisins (about 1/4 cup)
- Cinnamon, to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Blend the Oatmeal: Place the oatmeal in a food processor and pulse until it reaches a coarse flour-like consistency. This will serve as the base for your crust.
- Mix the Crust Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the blended oatmeal with the egg. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture forms a dough. The dough should be slightly sticky but hold together when pressed.
- Form the Crust: Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish, creating an even layer. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to smooth out the crust. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the filling.
- Slice the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples thinly. The thinner the slices, the more evenly they will cook, ensuring a tender filling.
- Sweeten the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with the natural honey, raisins, and cinnamon.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Add the Filling: Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly. The apples should be mounded slightly in the center as they will cook down.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
Step 4: Serve
- Cool the Pie: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving.
- Optional Toppings: For an extra touch, you can drizzle a bit more honey over the top or sprinkle with additional cinnamon before serving.
- Serve: Slice the pie and enjoy it warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of sugar-free vanilla ice cream for an added treat.
Conclusion
This Healthy American Apple Pie is proof that you don’t need sugar or butter to create a delicious and satisfying dessert. The natural sweetness of the apples and honey, combined with the hearty oatmeal crust, makes this pie a wholesome choice for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a dessert that fits into a healthy lifestyle or just want a lighter version of a classic favorite, this pie is sure to become a new go-to recipe. Enjoy a slice (or two) knowing that you’re indulging in a treat that’s as good for you as it is delicious!