Are you craving the warm, comforting flavors of apple pie but want to skip the hefty crust? This No Crust Apple Pie recipe is the perfect solution! It’s surprisingly easy to make, incredibly healthy, and tastes just as delicious as its traditional counterpart. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick dinner idea or a satisfying dessert, making it one of the best recipes for a healthy and delicious meal. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this simple yet elegant dish.
Ingredients:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (or maple syrup for a healthier option)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, gently toss the sliced apples with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This ensures even distribution of spices throughout the pie.
Step 2: Create the Oat Topping
In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, brown sugar (or maple syrup), and flour. Mix well. This creates a delightful and slightly crunchy topping that replaces the traditional pie crust.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Pour the spiced apples into an oven-safe baking dish (approximately 8x8 inches or a similar size). Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the apples. Dot the top with small pieces of butter, ensuring it's distributed evenly for a nice melt. Add chopped nuts if desired.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown and slightly crispy. The baking time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your apple slices. Check for doneness using a fork, easily piercing the apples indicates they are ready.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let the apple pie cool slightly before serving. A slight cooling period helps the filling set and makes it easier to serve without a mess. Serve warm, possibly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra decadent touch. This is a delicious and healthy dessert option, or even a light breakfast if you prefer.
Cooking Tips for a Perfect No Crust Apple Pie:
- Apple Selection: Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor balance. Granny Smith provides tartness, while Honeycrisp adds sweetness.
- Even Baking: For even cooking, use an oven-safe dish that's not too shallow or too deep.
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking will dry out the apples. Start checking for doneness around the 35-minute mark.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to experiment with different spices. A dash of cardamom or allspice can add a unique flavor dimension.
Variations:
- Cranberry Apple Pie: Add 1/2 cup of fresh or dried cranberries to the apple mixture for a tart and festive twist.
- Lemon Apple Pie: Add the zest of one lemon to the apple mixture for a brighter, more citrusy flavor.
- Spiced Apple Crisp: Increase the oat topping ingredients for a thicker, crispier top.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Protein: 5-7g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used. This easy recipe is a delicious and healthy addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking adventures. Enjoy!