Name: Healthy Apple Pie
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the crust:; 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or half whole wheat, half all-purpose); 1/2 cup coconut oil or chilled unsalted butter; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 4–6 tablespoons ice water; Optional: 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup; For the filling:; 6 cups sliced apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix); 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This apple pie is lighter, naturally sweetened, and just as flavorful as the traditional version. You’ll love that it uses whole food ingredients like fresh apples, unrefined sweeteners, and whole-grain flour for the crust. It’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or anytime you crave apple pie without the guilt. Plus, the aroma of baked apples with cinnamon will fill your kitchen with irresistible coziness.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

Whole wheat flour (or a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose)
Coconut oil or chilled unsalted butter
Ice water
A pinch of salt
Optional: a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup for sweetness

For the filling:

Apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
Honey or maple syrup (instead of refined sugar)
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Lemon juice
Arrowroot powder or cornstarch (for thickening)
Vanilla extract

Directions

Make the crust: In a bowl, mix whole wheat flour and salt. Cut in coconut oil or butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until dough comes together. Divide in two, flatten into disks, wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.
Prepare the filling: Peel, core, and slice apples thinly. In a large bowl, toss apples with honey or maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, cornstarch, and vanilla until coated.
Assemble: Roll out one dough disk and fit into a 9-inch pie pan. Pour in the apple mixture and spread evenly. Roll out the second dough disk and place on top, crimping edges to seal. Cut small slits in the top crust for steam.
Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 45–55 minutes, until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling. If the crust browns too quickly, cover edges with foil.
Cool: Let the pie cool at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set before slicing.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8 people.
Prep time: 25 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

Use almond flour for a gluten-free crust.
Swap coconut oil for avocado oil in the crust.
Add raisins or dried cranberries to the filling for extra natural sweetness.
Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the filling for crunch.
Make it crustless by baking just the apple mixture in a dish and topping with granola.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave for 30 seconds.
This pie also freezes well—wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What makes this apple pie healthier?

It uses whole wheat flour, unrefined sweeteners, and less butter or oil while still maintaining flavor.

Can I use coconut sugar instead of honey or maple syrup?

Yes, coconut sugar works well as another unrefined sweetener.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is optional—the skins add extra fiber and nutrients.

Can I make this pie vegan?

Yes, use coconut oil in the crust and maple syrup in the filling.

What apples are best for healthy apple pie?

Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith balance the natural sweetness best.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend for the crust.

Why is my filling runny?

Be sure to use enough cornstarch or arrowroot and let the pie cool fully before slicing.

Can I reduce the sweetener even more?

Yes, reduce the honey or maple syrup and rely on the apples’ natural sweetness.

What spices can I add?

Ginger, cardamom, or allspice add extra warmth and flavor.

Is this pie suitable for meal prep?

Yes, bake ahead and store in the fridge or freeze for later.

Conclusion

Healthy apple pie is proof that comfort food can be both delicious and nourishing. With a wholesome crust, naturally sweetened filling, and all the cozy flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples, this dessert is perfect for guilt-free indulgence. Serve it warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream for a balanced, feel-good treat.