Apple pie in a jar

Apple pie is a classic dessert that many people adore, but the calories and sugar content can often be a concern. This Apple Pie in a Jar recipe is a healthier, lighter twist on the classic, with only 2 Weight Watchers points per serving! This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, with a comforting apple-cinnamon filling topped with a buttery, crisp crumble.

With just a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can enjoy the flavors of a traditional apple pie without any of the guilt. Plus, this version is portion-controlled and served in cute little jars, making it perfect for individual servings or sharing!

Recipe Overview:

• Dish Name: Apple Pie in a Jar
• Cuisine: Dessert
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Serves: 6 servings (2 points per serving on Weight Watchers)
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Ingredients:

Here’s what you’ll need to make this apple pie in a jar:

• For the filling:
  • 4 medium apples (peeled, cored, and chopped) – Granny Smith or Fuji apples work well
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or sugar substitute if preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the filling)
  • 1/4 cup water
• For the topping:
  • 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 2 tablespoons light butter (or butter substitute, like plant-based butter)
  • 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or sugar substitute)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt

Preparation Time:

• Active Preparation: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Intensity Level:

This recipe is simple and easy to follow, with only basic steps involved. The difficulty level is beginner-friendly, and it’s a great choice for anyone looking to prepare a healthier dessert without complex techniques.

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. Peel and chop the apples: Start by peeling, coring, and chopping the apples into bite-sized pieces.
2. Toss with lemon juice: In a large bowl, toss the chopped apples with lemon juice to prevent browning and give them a slight tang.
3. Mix the filling ingredients: Add the sugar (or sugar substitute), cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch to the apples. Stir to combine, making sure the apples are evenly coated.
4. Add water: Pour in the water, stir, and set the apple mixture aside while you prepare the topping.

Step 3: Prepare the Topping

1. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate small bowl, mix together the oats, whole wheat flour, brown sugar (or substitute), cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
2. Add butter: Cut the light butter into small cubes and add it to the dry ingredients. Using your fingers or a fork, work the butter into the dry ingredients until it forms a crumbly mixture. You can also use a pastry cutter for this step if you prefer.

Step 4: Assemble the Apple Pie in Jars

1. Fill the jars: Spoon the apple filling evenly into 6 small mason jars (or oven-safe jars). Leave about 1/2 inch of space at the top to allow for the topping.
2. Top with the oat mixture: Evenly distribute the oat topping over the apple filling in each jar.

Step 5: Bake the Apple Pie in a Jar

1. Bake: Place the jars on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
2. Cool: Allow the jars to cool for a few minutes before serving. You can enjoy them warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Success:

• Apple choice: Choose apples that hold their shape well when baking, such as Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp apples. These varieties maintain their texture and don’t turn too mushy.
• Substitute sugars: If you prefer a lower-calorie version, you can substitute the granulated sugar and brown sugar with a sugar substitute that is suitable for baking, like Stevia or Monk Fruit Sweetener.
• Butter alternatives: If you’re looking for an even lighter version, you can use a butter substitute, such as plant-based butter or applesauce, in place of the light butter for the topping.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the apple pie filling and topping in advance, store them separately in the fridge, and assemble them just before baking for an easy, time-saving dessert.
• Serving suggestions: Serve the apple pie in a jar with a dollop of low-fat whipped cream, vanilla Greek yogurt, or a scoop of sugar-free ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

The following nutritional information is an approximation based on using light butter and a sugar substitute. Each serving is 1 jar (for a total of 6 servings):

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Protein: 1 g
• Fat: 4 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugars: 12 g
• Cholesterol: 10 mg
• Sodium: 45 mg
• Potassium: 150 mg
• Calcium: 2%
• Iron: 2%

Conclusion:

Apple Pie in a Jar is a healthier, Weight Watchers-friendly version of a classic dessert that’s perfect for portion control. With only 2 Weight Watchers points per serving, this dessert gives you all the flavors of a traditional apple pie, without the guilt. The individual servings in cute jars make it easy to serve for a family dessert or special occasions.

This dessert is warm, comforting, and absolutely delicious. It’s easy to customize with sugar substitutes or butter alternatives, and it can be made ahead of time for convenience. Whether you enjoy it on its own or topped with a little whipped cream, this apple pie in a jar will be a hit with everyone!