Holiday pies are a tasty dessert, but they are also loaded with calories. Don’t skip it – perfect it with these simple substitutions. Amounts will vary based on your recipe. Use a food substation chart for the best results.
Apple pie
Apples are full of antioxidants and are a good source of fiber and potassium.
- Instead of pie crust, consider an oatmeal crumble
- Instead of refined white sugar, consider alternative sugar, such as coconut sugar
- Instead of vegetable oil, consider coconut oil
Quick Tip: Add walnuts to your recipe for a healthy boost of omega-3 fatty acids.
Pumpkin pie
Pumpkin is a great source of beta-carotene, fiber and potassium.
- Instead of eggs, consider egg whites (no yolks)
- Instead of refined white sugar, consider honey
- Instead of whole milk, consider unsweetened soy, almond or rice milk
Quick Tip: Up for a new spin on this classic? Try a pumpkin parfait topped with low-fat granola.
Pecan pie
Pecans are a good source of dietary fiber, protein, monounsaturated fat, vitamins and minerals.
- Instead of white sugar, consider unrefined sugar such as sucanat (natural cane sugar) or muscovado (partially refined sugar)
- Instead of corn syrup, consider maple syrup
Quick Tip: Cut the recipe’s sugar amount in half! You’ll get a healthier pie with a stronger pecan flavor.
Source: Sharp Health News