Are you craving a warm, comforting apple pie but want to avoid the extra calories and fuss of a pastry crust? Then you're in the right place! This crustless apple pie recipe is a delicious and healthy alternative that's surprisingly easy to make. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dessert or a special occasion, and it's guaranteed to impress everyone with its amazing flavour and simple elegance. Get ready to enjoy all the deliciousness of apple pie without the guilt! This recipe is a fantastic example of how homemade cooking can be both quick and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk or cream
- Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This preparation ensures even cooking and easy cleanup.
Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, gently toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Make sure the apples are evenly coated. This step is crucial for achieving a balanced sweetness and spice.
Add the butter: Dot the butter pieces evenly over the apple mixture. The butter will melt during baking, adding richness and flavour.
Make the egg wash: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk or cream. This simple egg wash adds moisture and a lovely golden brown top to your pie.
Assemble and bake: Pour the egg mixture over the apple filling, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. If using nuts, sprinkle them over the top now. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender. You'll know it's done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and serve: Let the crustless apple pie cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. This is a fantastic healthy meal option, particularly for those seeking quick dinner ideas.
Tips for the Best Crustless Apple Pie:
- Apple Selection: Choose a variety of apples for a more complex flavour profile. A mix of tart and sweet apples works best.
- Thickness of Slices: Thinly sliced apples cook more evenly.
- Don't Overmix: Gently toss the apples with the sugar and spices to avoid breaking them down too much.
- Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your pie and adjust baking time as needed. If the top is browning too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil.
Variations:
- Spiced it up: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom for a warm, aromatic twist.
- Citrus Burst: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the apple filling for a bright, citrusy flavour.
- Cranberry Addition: Incorporate ½ cup of dried cranberries for a festive touch and tartness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate per serving (assuming 8 servings) is:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Protein: 4-6g
This delicious and easy crustless apple pie is a perfect example of a healthy meal that doesn't compromise on taste. It's a simple recipe that even beginner cooks can master, offering a delicious and satisfying dessert without the added calories of a traditional crust. Enjoy!