Are you craving the warm, comforting flavors of apple pie but want a healthier, easier option? Then this crustless apple pie recipe is perfect for you! Forget the fuss of making pie crust; this version delivers all the deliciousness of a traditional apple pie without the extra calories and effort. It's a quick dinner idea, a fantastic healthy meal, and a truly delicious dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe showcases the best of homemade cooking, offering a simple yet impressive dessert.
Ingredients:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to your preference)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup rolled oats (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Ensure the apples are evenly coated.
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Add Moisture & Flavor: Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract. This helps to create a moist and flavorful filling.
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Assemble the Pie: Pour the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish. If using oats, sprinkle them evenly over the top.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is lightly golden brown. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork into the apples; they should be easily pierced.
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Cool & Serve: Let the crustless apple pie cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes a delightful addition!
Tips for the Best Crustless Apple Pie:
- Apple Variety: Using a mix of apple varieties adds depth of flavor and texture.
- Sugar Adjustment: Adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet pie, start with less sugar and add more to taste.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to experiment with other spices, such as cardamom or allspice.
- Oats for Texture: The optional rolled oats add a nice crunchy texture to the top. You could also use chopped nuts or breadcrumbs as an alternative.
Variations:
- Cranberry Apple Pie: Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries to the apple mixture for a tart and festive twist.
- Lemon Apple Pie: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the apple mixture for a bright and refreshing flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 200-250 (depending on serving size and added toppings)
- Carbohydrates: Around 30-40g
- Protein: Around 2-3g
- Fat: Around 8-10g
This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It's a healthy and delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of apple pie without the added fuss. Enjoy your homemade crustless apple pie!