Apple pie without the carbs? Sounds like a dream, right?
Well, here we are—on the brink of a culinary adventure that marries tradition with the keto lifestyle. I’ve always had a soft spot for apple pie, especially during those chilly, late-autumn evenings when the aroma of cinnamon fills the house.
It’s like the universe is wrapping you in a cozy blanket. But, oh, remember that one time the pie crust came out like cardboard?
Not this time. This recipe is the ultimate twist on a classic, and you might just find yourself sneaking a slice for breakfast.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9.5-inch pie dish. Grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the pie crust by combining almond flour, sweetener, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Add melted butter and an egg, mixing until a dough forms.
- Press the dough into the pie dish evenly, ensuring the bottom and sides are covered. Bake the crust for 10 minutes to set it.
- While the crust bakes, make the filling by peeling and slicing yellow squash to resemble apple slices. Cook them with lemon juice, cinnamon, and a low-carb sweetener until tender.
- Thicken the filling by mixing in xanthan gum gradually, stirring continuously to achieve a consistency similar to apple pie filling.
- Once the crust is ready, pour the squash mixture into it, spreading it evenly. Cover with a top crust if desired or keep it open-faced.
- If using a top crust, create slits or vents to allow steam to escape. Bake the pie in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
- Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. Store leftovers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Ingredients
- 4 cups (about 1.2 lbs) yellow squash, peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/3 cup Besti Monk Fruit Allulose Blend (or other keto-friendly sweetener)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (or substitute with allspice)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon gelatin
- 3 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for blooming gelatin)
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 1/4 cup Besti Monk Fruit Allulose Blend (for crust)
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
FAQ
- Can I use real apples instead of the ingredients in this keto apple pie filling?
- Yes, you can use real apples, but the recipe may require adjustments in terms of amounts and cooking times. For a filling recipe using real apples, you can refer to the gluten-free apple pie recipe on Wholesome Yum.
- Is it necessary to cut slits in the top of the pie crust?
- The slits are important to allow steam to vent, preventing the crust from puffing up or becoming soggy. Using a fork to poke small holes might not release enough steam.
- Can I prepare the keto apple pie a few days in advance?
- You can prepare the crust and filling ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and bake the pie on the day you plan to serve it to avoid the crust becoming soggy.
- What can I use as a substitute for cardamom spice?
- If you don’t have cardamom, allspice can be a good alternative in this recipe.
- What size pan is recommended for this keto apple pie recipe?
- A 9.5-inch glass baking dish is suggested for baking this pie.
Tips
- If your filling is too watery, try adding 1/2 teaspoon of xanthan gum to thicken it to the desired consistency.
- For a sweeter flavor, consider increasing the amount of sweetener in the recipe, especially if you find it too tart with lemon.
- When using alternative pie crusts, ensure they are sturdy enough if you plan to make a top crust; not all keto crusts will hold up.
- To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, wait to fill the pie until the day you plan to serve it.
Equipment
- 9.5″ Glass Baking Dish – If you don’t already have a pie dish of this specific size.
- Gelatin – If you don’t typically keep gelatin on hand for baking.
- Xanthan Gum – Often used in keto recipes for thickening but might not be a common household item.
- Besti Monk Fruit Allulose Blend – A specific sweetener blend that may not be readily available in all kitchens.
