This simple and healthy dessert hits the sweet spot

Satisfy your after-dinner sweet craving with this easy apple ‘pie’. With just four simple and healthy ingredients, it’s a dessert that’s not only delicious but also nutritious.

Deconstructed Apple Pie from the Jean Hailes for Women's Health group.

Although many people have moved away from eating fruit because they want to reduce their intake of carbohydrates, not all carbs are created equal. Some carbohydrates are more beneficial than others, and a low-GI piece of fruit like an apple is a very accessible choice. What’s more, adding healthy fats (like walnuts) to carbohydrates (like apple and dried fruit), lowers the overall glycaemic load. This means steadier blood sugar levels and fewer dips and spikes in energy. Win, win!

Deconstructed Apple Pie

INGREDIENTS

Per person

• 1 Granny Smith apple
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (or ½ cinnamon quill)
• 2 to 3 fresh walnuts, halved
• 1 tablespoon coconut flakes
• Optional
• 1 to 2 teaspoons currants or sultanas

METHOD

1. To prepare the apple, peel, remove core and roughly chop into even pieces. Alternatively, you can keep the skin on the apple, cut in quarters, remove core and slice.
2. Place the apple in a small saucepan and add just enough water to cover the fruit. (If keeping the skin on, allow slightly more water so it forms a syrup.) Add the cinnamon and stir to combine.
3. Cover saucepan with a lid and place over a low-medium heat. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the apple is soft and cooked through, checking that there is enough water to avoid apple sticking and burning.
4. Transfer apple and its syrup to a serving bowl. Top with walnuts and coconut chips (and dried fruit, if using).

Jean Hailes for Women’s Health is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to improving women’s health. Its resources include a range of healthy recipes aimed at good nutrition, eating well, enjoyment and balance.