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Hungry Healthy Happy » Recipes » Dessert

Healthy Apple Pie

Updated: Dec 5, 2022 · Published: Jul 22, 2021 · Written by Dannii Martin · This post may contain affiliate links which earn us commissions if purchases are made · 159 Comments

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Diet: Low Fat / Vegetarian
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Healthy Apple Pie with a text title overlay.

Homemade apple pie with a healthy twist. Flaky pastry loaded with sweet apples and cinnamon and a lattice pastry top. At just 200 calories a slice, this Healthy Apple Pie has all the comforting flavour you know and love, but a little bit lighter.

An apple pie with a slice removed, which is on a plate with a ball of ice cream.

An apple pie is perfect for any occasion. This healthy apple pie still has all that sweet apple pie flavour, but lightened up a little. A traditional slice of apple pie has between 300-400 calories, so this is a lighter option. The world healthy is of course subjective, but when compared to a more traditional store bought pie, this is much lighter. But it doesn't compromise on flavour.

If you are looking for some more fruit based desserts, try our Fruit Platter, Grilled Peaches, Baked Bananas or Apple and Blackberry Crumble.

Jump to:
  • Why you will love it
  • Ingredients needed
  • Step by step
  • Health benefits
  • Variation
  • What to serve with it
  • FAQs
  • Extra tips
  • More apple recipes
  • Recipe
  • Feedback

Why you will love it

  • All the same flavour - This pie does not sacrifice on taste. It still has the delicious flaky pasty and sweet cinnamon apples, but with a few lighter changes.
  • Lightened up - We haven't used any crazy ingredients to lighten this up. Just a little maple syrup instead of granulated sugar, and a pastry top swap.
  • Delicious comfort food - When it comes to dessert, apple pie has to be the most comforting. It's the perfect summer dessert and delicious with ice cream.
  • Can be adapted to use other fruit - Why stop at apples! You could use an apple and pear combo, or even use berries instead.

Ingredients needed

All the ingredients needed for this recipe with text overlay labels.
  • Shortcrust pastry - Yes, we cheated. We honestly can't taste the difference with store bought pasty compared to making our own. So, we save ourselves a lot of time and buy it ready made. Feel free to make your own!
  • Apples - You want to use a firm, drier apple to make apple pie because whilst they will soften up when cooking, they won't turn mushy like a softer juicier apple would. We use Granny Smith apples because they are the right firmness and a perfect balance of sweet and tart too. If you love really sweet apple pie, then use Braeburn or Golden Delicious apples.
  • Cinnamon - Apples and cinnamon are just the perfect combination. You could swap it for nutmeg or ground ginger, or use a mixture of the three.
  • Maple syrup - This is how we have sweetened our apple pie. We have used just a little, as it is very sweet and has a strong flavour. You could swap it for honey or another liquid sweetener if you prefer.
  • Vanilla - This adds some warmth to the healthy apple pie. Use vanilla extract, rather than essence, as you will get a more natural flavour.
  • Cornflour - This is used as a thickener in the pie. You mix it with the apples before they go in to the pastry and it thickens up the pie filling juices.
  • Egg - This is brushed on at the end to give the pie that beautiful golden glaze.

A full ingredients list with measurements is in the recipe card below.

Step by step

One: Preheat your oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas 6. In a bowl, mix the sliced apples, maple syrup, vanilla, cornflour and cinnamon until all the apples are coated.

Two shot collage of sliced apples in a bowl with cinnamon, cornflour and maple syrup, before and after mixing.

Two: Roll out the dough and put into a greased pie dish. Cut around the edges and save the leftover pastry. Prick the base of the pastry with a fork. Lay the apple slices on the bottom of the pastry and build up in layers.

Two shot collage of pastry in a pie tin and then filled with the apple slices.

Three: Roll out the remaining pastry and cut into thin strips. Lay the strips in a lattice pattern over the top of the apples. Cover in foil and cook for 20 minutes. Remove from the oven, brush the egg over the pasty and return to the oven, Cook for a further 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.

Two shot collage of strips of pastry on top of the pie, before and after cooking.

Four: Cool for at least 30 minutes before serving

Health benefits

Let's us start off by saying that this is still a sugary pie. There is pastry and there is maple syrup coating the apples, but we have tried to make a couple of little lighter changes.

Firstly, apples are super nutritious. They are a good source of fibre, potassium and vitamin C and K. Apples have also been linked to a lower risk of heart disease. One reason for this may be that apples contain soluble fibre, and this can help lower your blood cholesterol levels.

Apples also contain polyphenols, which have antioxidant effects. However, many of these are in the peel, so if you peel the apples they they won't have the same benefits.

As you can see on the pictures of the pie, we have used a lattice effect on top. We could have covered it in pastry to make a lid, however we went with strips of pastry because it means using less pastry and also we think it looks prettier.

Apple pie needs to be sweet. Whilst the apples are naturally sweet, especially when baked, we added a little bit of maple syrup to add extra sweetness. Apple pie would usually be loaded with granulated sweetener, so by using a little maple syrup with have saved a few calories in this pie.

Sliced apples falling out of a cooked pie.

Variation

This is a really good basic fruit pie recipe that you can adapt. You could use half apples and pears for a nice autumnal mix. You could also do a berry mix of blueberries, raspberries, strawberries and blackberries. Or a stone fruit pie with peaches and nectarines.

Instead of using cinnamon, you could swap it for ground ginger or mixed spice, or even use a mixture of the three.

What to serve with it

Now, this is a source of great debate - especially in our house. Whilst you could just eat it by itself, straight out of the pan, it is delicious with vanilla ice cream or custard. Custard for a warming and comforting winter dessert and ice cream in the summer. Let us know in the comments what you like to serve apple pie with.

If you are looking for a hot drink to have this with as a bit of an afternoon pick-me-up, then why not they our Chai Tea Latte, Cinnamon Coffee or Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate.

A pie slice in an apple pie with some pie in the foreground.

FAQs

How to store apple pie

You can keep apple pie at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can then keep it in the fridge for an additional 2 days. Keep it covered with foil loosely. You can also freeze apple pie. Wrap it tightly with foil and place in a large freezer bag - it will keep in the freezer for about 3 months. Defrost it in the fridge and then warm it in the oven for about 30 minutes.

How can you make sugar free apple pie?

If you want to make this even lighter, then you can leave out the maple syrup and you will just have the natural sweetness from the apples.

Can you make apple pie without egg?

You don't have to add the egg wash to the pastry, but it does make it nice and golden.

Do you need to cook the apples first?

No, there is no need to cook the apples in a pan first. They are cooked in the pastry in the oven for 45 minutes, and if they are sliced thin enough this is plenty of time.

Do I have to put foil on top?

Yes, the foil is an important part of this recipe. Because we have added a lattice top, rather than a full pastry cover, the foil seals in the steam that the apples release while baking. This softens the apples and also keeps the top layer of apples from burning.

How do you make the lattice topping?

It is actually far easier than it looks. You lay half of the pastry strips down on top of the apples one way and then weave the remaining strips under and over in the other direction.

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Extra tips

• Why not make this healthy apple pie extra fancy by cutting out some tiny pastry flowers with cookie cutters to put on top.
• Fancy something a little different? Swap half the apples for pear, or even make a peach version of this.
• Make sure the apples are sliced really thin. If they are on the thicker side, then they won't cook fully in the oven and you will have hard apple slices. You want them to be really soft and sweet.
• Although you will be super eager to cut right in to the pie to eat it, you should try to leave it to settle and cool for 2 hours just so that you can cut it and pull out a full slice without it falling apart.

More apple recipes

  • A large baking tray full of baked apples topped with three scoops of ice cream.
    Cinnamon Baked Apples
  • Custard being poured onto some apple and plum crumble
    Apple and Plum Crumble
  • A stack of Apple and Cinnamon Pancakes next to some apples
    Apple Cinnamon Pancakes
  • Three apple hand pies surrounded by an apple, cinnamon sticks, yogurt and a cup of coffee.
    Apple Hand Pies

If you’ve tried this healthy apple pie recipe, let us know how you got on in the comments below.
Tag us in your creations on Instagram @hungryhealthyhappy - Use the hashtag #hungryhealthyhappy too.

Recipe

Healthy Apple Pie with a slice cut out.

Healthy Apple Pie

By: Dannii Martin
At just 200 calories a slice, this Healthy Apple Pie has all the comforting flavour you know and love, but a little bit lighter.
the words low fat in a white circle.
Low Fat
An illustration of a v-shaped plant.
Vegetarian
4.89 from 9 votes
Pin Print Save recipe Saved!
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, British
Prep: 10 minutes mins
Cook: 40 minutes mins
Total: 50 minutes mins
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 200kcal
Allergens:
An illustration of a carton of milk.
Dairy
An illustration of a cracked egg.
Eggs
An illustration of two ears of wheat.
Gluten

Ingredients

  • 375 g (13 oz) Ready rolled shortcrust pastry
  • 4 Apple - quartered, then thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoon Maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon Cornflour (corn starch)
  • 0.5 Egg - whisked

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 200°C/180°C(fan)/400°F/Gas 6.
  • In a bowl, mix 4 Apple, 3 tablespoon Maple syrup, 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon Cornflour (corn starch) and 1 teaspoon Cinnamon until all the apples are coated.
  • Roll out 375 g Ready rolled shortcrust pastry and put into a greased pie dish. Cut around the edges and save the leftover pastry. Prick the base of the pastry with a fork. Lay the apple slices on the bottom of the pastry and build up in layers.
  • Roll out the remaining pastry and cut into thin strips. Lay the strips in a lattice pattern over the top of the apples. Cover in foil and cook for 20 minutes.
  • Remove from the oven, brush 0.5 Egg over the pasty and return to the oven, Cook for a further 20-25 minutes, until golden brown. Cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Recipe Tips

  • Why not make this healthy apple pie extra fancy by cutting out some tiny pastry flowers with cookie cutters to put on top.
  • Fancy something a little different? Swap half the apples for pear, or even make a peach version of this.
  • Make sure the apples are sliced really thin. If they are on the thicker side, then they won't cook fully in the oven and you will have hard apple slices. You want them to be really soft and sweet.
  • Although you will be super eager to cut right in to the pie to eat it, you should try to leave it to settle and cool for 2 hours just so that you can cut it and pull out a full slice without it falling apart.

Nutritional Information

Serving: 1slice | Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 232mg | Potassium: 155mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 65IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 23mg | Iron: 2mg

The nutritional information provided is approximate and is calculated using online tools. Information can vary depending on various factors, but we have endeavoured to be as accurate as possible.

As all appliances vary, cooking times are a guide. Please note that by changing the serving size, the cooking time may also need to be altered.

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Comments

  1. Lilli @ Sugar and Cinnamon says

    November 17, 2014 at 10:34 pm

    I've been looking for a healthier apple pie recipe for ages! Thanks so much for sharing this recipe is awesome :)

    Reply
    • Dannii says

      November 18, 2014 at 11:12 am

      I hope you enjoy it :)

      Reply
  2. Michelle @ Vitamin Sunshine says

    November 11, 2014 at 10:58 pm

    I love that this is minimally sweetened! I've replaced traditional "pies" with crisps because it's easier to put together and can be made healthier. My favorite lately has been just to use a homemade chunky (no sugar added) applesauce, and mix together oats, walnuts, cinnamon, coconut oil, and 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar for a touch of sweetness-- and bake in ramekins. It tastes indulgent, but really is mostly just fruit and oatmeal :)

    But your version would be great for a holiday table!

    Reply
    • Dannii says

      November 16, 2014 at 6:58 pm

      We like apple crisps too, but sometimes an apple pie is what is needed.

      Reply
  3. Mazino Oyolo Kigho says

    October 26, 2014 at 1:20 am

    Apple pie... I think I'll give it a try especiall with the nutritional value.

    Reply
    • Dannii says

      October 27, 2014 at 3:30 pm

      Enjoy!

      Reply
  4. Valya @ Valya's Taste of Home says says

    October 25, 2014 at 2:14 am

    Oh! It looks so good! Apple pie is my weakness..... with French vanilla ice cream. ;)

    Reply
    • Dannii says

      October 27, 2014 at 3:37 pm

      Good combination!

      Reply
  5. andleeb says

    October 24, 2014 at 9:22 pm

    OMG this apple pie seems amazing I will surely give it a try

    Reply
    • Dannii says

      October 27, 2014 at 3:37 pm

      I hope you enjoy it!

      Reply
  6. Kelly - Life Made Sweeter says

    October 24, 2014 at 8:16 pm

    Wow! A healthy apple pie? Yes please! I am a sucker for pies but don't have them often because of the calories so I seriously can't wait to try this. It looks incredible Dannii!

    Reply
    • Dannii says

      October 27, 2014 at 3:39 pm

      I hope you enjoy it!

      Reply
  7. Joanne says

    October 24, 2014 at 12:19 pm

    Whoa! I'm going to have to look into this Natvia stuff...sounds like it makes for great healthier desserts! Which I definitely need in my life.

    Reply
    • Dannii says

      October 24, 2014 at 1:07 pm

      You should get some, I really love it!

      Reply
  8. Anna @AnnaTheApple says

    October 24, 2014 at 11:50 am

    This looks amazing!! Really nice. I love apple pie (though I do have to say I'm a bigger fan of a crumble) but hey it's got apples so I'm won over completely ;-P Hot apple pie and ice cream...mmmmm.

    Reply
    • Dannii says

      October 24, 2014 at 1:06 pm

      Maybe I need to come up with a healthier crumble recipe!

      Reply
  9. Nadia says

    October 24, 2014 at 10:40 am

    What an amazing creation :D

    Reply
    • Dannii says

      October 24, 2014 at 10:41 am

      Why thank you :)

      Reply
  10. Mary says

    October 24, 2014 at 9:20 am

    I really don't like cooked apples, but this would work just as well with cooked pears, which I love. I like the idea of using dates instead of the sugar.

    Reply
    • Dannii says

      October 24, 2014 at 10:35 am

      Oooh, using pears is a great idea. I will be doing that next time :)

      Reply
  11. Alison says

    October 24, 2014 at 9:18 am

    This looks gorgeous. I love dates, never thought of using them instead of sugar. Will have to try it

    Reply
    • Dannii says

      October 24, 2014 at 10:36 am

      It adds a really nice flavour to the pastry.

      Reply
  12. Arman @ thebigmansworld says

    October 24, 2014 at 8:54 am

    Dannii, If I pop over with ice cream, will you have this ready? Please? PLEASE?

    Reply
    • Dannii says

      October 24, 2014 at 10:36 am

      You better be quick, only one slice left!

      Reply
  13. Lauren @ ihadabiglunch says

    October 24, 2014 at 5:05 am

    I love that you incorporated greek yogurt into this recipe! Upping the protein in desserts/snack foods is one of my favorite tips for being satisfied with less :) looks great!

    Reply
    • Dannii says

      October 24, 2014 at 10:36 am

      It also cuts down on the fat as it replaces some of the butter!

      Reply
  14. Ruby @ Ruby Red Apron says

    October 24, 2014 at 3:55 am

    I can't believe how low in calories this is! I love a slice of warm apple pie with a cup of coffee!

    Reply
    • Dannii says

      October 24, 2014 at 10:37 am

      Warm is the best way to have it!

      Reply
  15. Jessie says

    October 24, 2014 at 3:34 am

    This would be delicious crumbled and mixed into either plain or vanilla yogurt!!

    Reply
    • Dannii says

      October 24, 2014 at 10:37 am

      Good idea! Definitely doing that next time.

      Reply
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My name is Dannii. Here you will find easy family recipes with a healthy twist.

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