For those craving something sweet and indulgent while still keeping an eye on their blood sugar levels, this diabetic-friendly apple pie with whole grain flour and orange is the perfect treat.

By using whole grains instead of refined flour and a variety of fresh and flavorful ingredients, this recipe offers a healthier twist on the classic dessert while still satisfying those with a sweet tooth.

Ingredients

For the crust:

1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 stick unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1/4 cup ice water

For the filling:

5-6 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
1/4 cup honey
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon allspice
Zest and juice of one orange

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
To make the crust, combine whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add the butter to the bowl and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse sand.
Add ice water to the bowl and mix until the dough begins to come together. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently for a minute or two. Form the dough into a disk and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least an hour.
While the dough is chilling, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with honey, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and orange zest and juice until everything is evenly combined.
Take the dough out of the fridge and roll it out onto a floured surface until it’s large enough to fit into a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the dough to the dish, trimming off any excess around the edges.
Pour the apple mixture into the crust and use a spatula to spread it evenly. Fold the edges of the crust over the top of the filling, leaving a small opening in the center.
Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let the pie cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Why Whole Grain Flour Is Better for Diabetics

Whole grain flour is made by grinding down the whole kernel of a grain, which means it contains all three parts: the bran, germ, and endosperm.

This ensures that the flour retains all the nutrients and fiber the grain offers, which makes it a better choice for diabetics.

Fiber is important for diabetic diets because it slows the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream, which helps control blood sugar levels.

Additionally, whole grains are rich in nutrients such as potassium, magnesium, and zinc that can help prevent complications associated with diabetes.

The Benefits of Using Honey as a Sweetener

Honey is a natural sweetener that offers a host of benefits for diabetics. Although it’s still a form of sugar, honey has a lower glycemic index than refined sugar, which means it doesn’t cause blood sugar levels to spike as quickly.

Honey is also rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, a common complication associated with diabetes.

Additionally, studies suggest that consuming honey in moderation may actually improve blood sugar control in diabetics.

Why Orange Zest and Juice Are Key to This Recipe

Orange zest and juice add both flavor and nutritional value to this recipe. The zest is packed with essential oils that offer a bright, citrusy aroma and flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples and honey.

Orange juice is rich in vitamin C, an important antioxidant that can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation. Additionally, studies suggest that consuming whole fruits and juices can help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Enjoying Diabetic-Friendly Desserts in Moderation

This recipe is a great example of how diabetics can still enjoy sweet treats while keeping their blood sugar levels under control. However, it’s important to remember that moderation is key.

Even “healthy” desserts can cause blood sugar levels to spike if consumed in excess.

If you have diabetes, it’s important to work with your doctor or a registered dietitian to create a meal plan that meets your individual needs.

This may include limiting your intake of sugar and carbohydrates, and regularly monitoring your blood sugar levels to ensure they remain within a healthy range.

Conclusion

This diabetic-friendly apple pie recipe is a great choice for those with a sweet tooth who still want to maintain a healthy diet.

By using whole grain flour, honey, and fresh ingredients like apples and oranges, this recipe delivers flavor and nutrition in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to share with friends and family, or just want a sweet treat for yourself, give this recipe a try and see how delicious (and diabetic-friendly) it can be.