Weight Watchers Friendly Apple Pie   Recipe enthusiasts

Our Apple pie recipe is a lightened-up version of the European-turned-American classic dessert. This Weight Watchers-friendly pie uses mindful swaps—like oat flour and reduced butter—to create a delicious yet healthy treat perfect for the holidays.

We love the texture and unique flavor of this oat flour crust. Using part sugar and part sweetener preserves the sweetness of apple pie, without the added calories and Weight Watchers points. Enjoy your Thanksgiving spread, without the guilt!

Why you should try this recipe

1.      Healthier Option: This adapted apple pie recipe is a healthier version of this fall favorite. With reduced butter, oat flour, and less sugar, it”s a great choice for those who want to enjoy a classic dessert without compromising on their dietary goals.

2.      Lower Calories: If you’re mindful of your calorie intake, this lighter apple pie offers a way to indulge in a beloved treat without the guilt associated with consuming excess calories.

3.      Nutritious Oats: The use of oat flour not only adds a unique texture to the crust but also provides the benefits of oats, which are rich in dietary fiber and can contribute to a sense of fullness and sustained energy.

Yield: This recipe makes about 8 servings.

Preparation Time: Approximately 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Serving Size: 1 Slice of Pie (about ⅛th of pie)

2 WW points per serving

Ingredients

·         1 ⅓ cups (150 g) rolled oats

·         37 large-sized apples, peeled, cored, and sliced

·         ½ cup (125 g) unsweetened applesauce

·         8 packets of granulated stevia s

·         ¼ cup (60 ml) water (for the crust)

·         1 tablespoon of light butter

·         1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions for making Apple Pie

For the crust:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups (220 g) of rolled oats with 2 teaspoons of stevia.

2.  Melt 1 tablespoon of butter and add it to the oats.

3.  Mix in ¼ cup (60 ml) of water and knead until the mixture holds together. If necessary, add more water, one tablespoon at a time.

4. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes.

For the filling:

5.  In a large saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.

6.  Add the stevia and sliced apples and cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.

7.  Stir in ½ cup (125 g) of unsweetened applesauce and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Mix well and remove from heat.

Putting it all together:

8.  Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

9.  Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish.

10.  Place the rolled-out dough into a 9-inch (23 cm) pie dish.

11.  Pour the apple mixture into the crust, spreading it out evenly.

12.  Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown, and the filling is bubbling.

13.  Let the pie cool before slicing. It’s delicious served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Variations and substitutions

• Fruit pies: You can use the same pie crust recipe to make pies with other fruits, such as cherries, peaches, blueberries, or mixed berries. Be sure to substitute sugar-free sweeteners for the sugar in the recipe.
• Crumbles: Crumbles are made with a topping of oats, nuts, and spices. They are typically easier to make than pies, and they are just as delicious.
• Tarts: Tarts are similar to pies, but they have an open face, meaning that the filling is not covered by a top crust. Tarts are often made with fruit fillings, but they can also be made with savory fillings, such as cheese or vegetables.

Tips and Tricks Section for Making Apple Pie

Making apple pie is relatively simple. Just keep these simple tips in mind.

1.      Chill the Pie Crust: After preparing the pie crust, it’s a good idea to chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle and roll out and helps achieve a flakier texture once baked.

2.      Ventilation Holes: Before adding the apple filling, prick the bottom of the pie crust with a fork. This prevents the crust from puffing up and forming air bubbles during baking. It’s a simple trick that keeps your pie crust even and attractive.

3.      Pre-Bake the Crust: To avoid a soggy bottom or undercooked center, consider par-baking the crust. Place parchment paper or aluminum foil on the crust, and add pie weights (or dried beans) to prevent it from rising. Bake for about 10-15 minutes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) before adding the apple filling. This pre-baking step helps the crust maintain its structure and ensures it’s fully cooked.

4.      Layer the Apples: When filling the pie crust with apple slices, arrange them in even layers to ensure even cooking. This prevents the center of the pie from becoming undercooked or mushy while the outer layers are perfectly baked.

5.      Aluminum Foil Shield: To prevent the edges of the pie crust from over-browning or burning during baking, you can create an aluminum foil shield. Simply cover the edge of the pie with a strip of aluminum foil before placing it in the oven. Remove the foil during the last 15 minutes of baking for a nicely browned crust.

6.      Cooling Time: Once your apple pie is done baking, allow it to cool for at least a couple of hours on a wire rack. This resting period helps the filling set and makes it easier to slice without falling apart.

Related Recipes

Weight Watchers Friendly Apple Pie

A lightened-up take on this classic fall dessert.