Sugar- and Butter-Free Apple Pie Recipe

This delightful apple pie is a healthier twist on the classic dessert, made without any added sugar or butter. The natural sweetness of the apples, combined with the richness of coconut oil, makes for a delicious treat that’s perfect for those seeking a wholesome, guilt-free indulgence. The whole wheat crust adds a rustic touch, while the cinnamon and nutmeg give the filling a warm, aromatic flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or as a cozy snack, this pie is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
  • ¼ cup coconut oil (melted) or olive oil
  • 3-4 tablespoons cold water
  • Pinch of salt

For the Filling:

  • 4-5 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal)
  • ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the pie.

2. Prepare the Crust

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and a pinch of salt. This will form the base of your pie crust.

Add the Oil

Pour in the melted coconut oil or olive oil and mix the ingredients until the dough becomes crumbly. The coconut oil adds richness without the need for butter, while olive oil brings a mild, savory flavor.

Add Water Gradually

Add cold water one tablespoon at a time, stirring after each addition, until the dough starts to come together. You may need between 3-4 tablespoons of water, depending on your flour. Once the dough is pliable, form it into a ball.

Roll Out the Dough

Sprinkle a little flour onto a flat surface and roll out the dough into a thin circle, large enough to fit your pie dish. Carefully transfer the dough to the dish, pressing it down gently to line the base and sides. Trim off any excess dough hanging over the edges.

3. Prepare the Filling

Slice the Apples

Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. For this pie, Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work best due to their balance of tartness and sweetness, which complements the sugar-free nature of the recipe.

Mix the Filling Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with the unsweetened applesauce, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch (if using). The applesauce adds natural sweetness, while the spices bring out the comforting, classic apple pie flavors. The lemon juice brightens the mixture, and the cornstarch helps thicken the filling as it bakes.

4. Assemble the Pie

Fill the Crust

Pour the apple filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading the slices out evenly. The apples will soften and release their juices as they bake, creating a deliciously tender filling.

Optional: Create a Lattice Top

If you have leftover dough, roll it out and cut it into strips to create a lattice on top of the pie. Alternatively, you can leave the pie uncovered or use the dough to make a full crust cover. If you do cover the pie, remember to cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape during baking.

5. Bake the Pie

Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are soft. You’ll know it’s ready when the house is filled with the warm aroma of apples and spices.

6. Cool and Serve

Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for at least 15-20 minutes. This cooling period allows the filling to set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Serve your sugar- and butter-free apple pie as is, or with a dollop of plain yogurt or a drizzle of honey for extra indulgence.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

  • Servings: 8 slices
  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
  • Sodium: 30 mg
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Sugars: 6 g (naturally occurring in apples)

This wholesome apple pie is perfect for anyone seeking a dessert without added sugar or butter. With the natural sweetness of apples and the rich flavor of coconut oil, it’s a satisfying, guilt-free treat for any occasion!