Healthy Blueberry Pie

This healthy blueberry pie is a delicious, guilt-free dessert option that celebrates the natural flavors of fresh blueberries and whole-grain oat flour while minimizing added sugars and unhealthy fats. It’s a perfect choice for those looking for a lighter, wholesome dessert option.

What are the ingredients for the healthy blueberry pie?

Here’s a description of each main ingredient used in the healthy blueberry pie recipe:

• Oat Flour: Oat flour is made by grinding whole oats into a fine powder. It has a slightly nutty and earthy flavor with a hint of sweetness. Oat flour is known for its wholesome qualities and is often used in gluten-free baking. It adds a rustic and hearty element to the crust while providing a source of dietary fiber.
• Coconut Sugar: Coconut sugar is a natural sweetener derived from the sap of coconut palm trees. It has a caramel-like flavor that is less sweet than refined sugar, and it often retains some of the coconut’s subtle notes. In this recipe, it’s used sparingly to sweeten both the crust and the blueberry filling while imparting a mild and pleasant sweetness. It’s healthier than refined sugar but less healthy than consuming no sugar at all.
• Salt: Salt is a crucial ingredient in baking as it enhances the overall flavors of the pie. It balances the sweetness in the crust and the filling, adding depth and complexity to the taste.
• Egg: The egg serves as a binder for the oat flour crust, helping to hold the dough together. It also contributes to the crust’s richness and provides structure as it bakes.
• Coconut Oil: Coconut oil, in its melted form, is used to bind the oat flour crust ingredients together. It has a mild coconut flavor and adds a subtle tropical note to the crust. Coconut oil is a healthier fat option compared to some other cooking oils.
• Fresh Blueberries: Blueberries are the star of the show in the pie’s filling. Fresh blueberries are plump, sweet, and bursting with a fruity flavor. They are rich in antioxidants and provide a juicy and vibrant filling for the pie.
• Lemon Juice: Lemon juice adds a zesty and tangy element to the blueberry filling. It enhances the natural flavors of the blueberries and brightens the overall taste of the pie.
• Cornstarch: Cornstarch is a thickening agent used to give the blueberry filling a cohesive and slightly gooey texture. It helps bind the filling together, preventing it from being too runny.

The ingredients in this healthy blueberry pie are thoughtfully chosen to create a dessert that is both delicious and wholesome. They come together to produce a balanced flavor profile, with the natural sweetness of the blueberries and coconut sugar, the nutty notes of oat flour, and the brightening effect of lemon juice, all encased in a tender oat flour crust.

Is blueberry pie good for your health?

The specific blueberry pie recipe I provided, which includes oat flour, coconut sugar, coconut oil, fresh blueberries, lemon juice, and limited added sugars, is a healthier option compared to traditional blueberry pies. It does have some health benefits, but it’s essential to consider a few factors:

Healthier Crust: The use of oat flour in the crust provides whole grains and dietary fiber, making it a better choice compared to crusts made with refined flours. Coconut oil, while high in saturated fat, is used in moderation in this recipe.

Natural Sweeteners: Coconut sugar is used as a sweetener in the crust and filling, and it’s considered a more natural option than refined white sugar. However, it’s still a form of sugar and should be consumed in moderation.

Nutrient-Rich Blueberries: The filling contains fresh blueberries, which are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and dietary fiber. They provide essential nutrients and health benefits.

Limited Added Sugars: The recipe uses limited amounts of sugar compared to traditional blueberry pies. It relies on the natural sweetness of blueberries and coconut sugar.

Potential Gluten-Free Option: Depending on the source of your oat flour (certified gluten-free), this recipe can be gluten-free, which is suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Overall, this blueberry pie is a healthier option compared to many traditional recipes. It incorporates whole grains, fresh fruit, and natural sweeteners. However, it’s still a dessert and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. If you’re watching your sugar intake or following a specific dietary plan, you may want to adjust the recipe further to suit your needs.

How to make healthy blueberry pie?

In a mixing bowl, blend together the oat flour, coconut sugar, and salt. Next, incorporate the melted coconut oil and the beaten egg into the dry mixture. Stir until all the ingredients combine and form a cohesive dough.

Press the resulting dough evenly into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring it covers both the bottom and sides adequately.

In a larger mixing bowl, toss the blueberries with lemon juice to coat them evenly. In a separate bowl, combine the coconut sugar and cornstarch, then sprinkle this sugar mixture over the blueberries. Gently stir to ensure all the berries are coated.

Now, transfer the blueberry filling into the prepared oat flour crust. If you prefer, you can use any remaining oat flour dough to create a lattice or decorative topping for your pie.

To begin baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes or until the crust turns a beautiful golden brown, and the filling starts to bubble.

Once done, let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least an hour before slicing and serving your delightful and health-conscious blueberry pie. Enjoy!

If you like healthy blueberry pie, check out this Healthy Pumpkin Pie recipe!