This gluten free healthy apple pie Ninja Creami recipe transforms the classic fall dessert into a light, creamy treat perfect for any season. Combining real apples, warm spices, and a naturally sweetened base, it offers all the comforting flavors of apple pie without the gluten or excess sugar. Using the Ninja Creami machine, you get a smooth, frozen dessert that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
- 2 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon coconut sugar or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt for vegan option)
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons gluten free oat flour or almond flour
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Apple Pie Filling: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced apples, lemon juice, coconut sugar (or maple syrup), cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 8-10 minutes until the apples soften and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Blend the Base: In a blender or food processor, combine the almond milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, vanilla extract, oat or almond flour, and sea salt. Blend until smooth and creamy, about 30 seconds. The flour helps give the mixture body and a creamier texture once frozen.
- Combine Apples and Base: Once the apple mixture is cool, stir it gently into the blended base. You want small chunks of apple throughout, so do not overmix.
- Freeze the Mixture: Pour the combined mixture into the Ninja Creami pint container, making sure not to exceed the max fill line. Place the container in the freezer and freeze for at least 24 hours until completely solid.
- Process in Ninja Creami: Remove the pint from the freezer and insert it into the Ninja Creami machine. Select the “Lite Ice Cream” function to process the mixture. If the texture is crumbly or powdery after the first spin, use the “Re-spin” function once to achieve a creamier consistency.
- Serve or Store: Enjoy immediately for a soft-serve texture, or return to the freezer for 1-2 hours if you prefer a firmer scoopable consistency.
Tips
- Apple Varieties: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced flavor, or sweeter apples like Fuji for a naturally sweeter dessert.
- Sweetener Substitutions: Adjust sweetness with honey, agave syrup, or your preferred natural sweetener. Reduce amounts if apples are very sweet.
- Yogurt Options: Greek yogurt adds protein and creaminess but can be swapped for coconut or almond yogurt for dairy-free versions.
- Storage Advice: Store leftovers in the Ninja Creami pint container with a tight lid in the freezer for up to 1 week for best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This apple pie Ninja Creami dessert is perfect on its own or topped with a sprinkle of crushed gluten free granola for crunch. Add a drizzle of warm caramel or nut butter for extra indulgence. Pair it with a cup of hot herbal tea or spiced chai for cozy enjoyment. It also works wonderfully as a light dessert after a hearty fall meal.
Variations
Try adding a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts into the apple mixture before freezing for a nutty twist. For a spiced upgrade, include a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom along with the cinnamon. You can swap the almond milk for oat milk or cashew milk depending on your preference. For a vegan and keto-friendly option, use full-fat coconut yogurt and erythritol as the sweetener.
Storage and Reheating
Store your prepared apple pie Ninja Creami dessert in the freezer in an airtight container for up to 1 week. To serve after storage, allow it to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly before scooping. You can also run it through the Ninja Creami “Re-spin” cycle again to refresh the texture. Avoid freezing longer than a week to prevent ice crystallization and loss of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh apple juice or puree instead of diced apples?
Fresh apple puree can be used but will result in a smoother texture without the chunks of apple. Using diced apples adds a better apple pie feel with bits of fruit throughout the dessert.
Is oat flour necessary, or can I skip it?
Oat or almond flour helps improve the texture and creaminess by reducing ice crystals. Skipping it may cause the ice cream to be icier and less smooth, but it will still freeze and taste good.
Can I make this recipe without a Ninja Creami?
While this recipe is designed for the Ninja Creami, you can freeze it in a shallow container and stir every 30 minutes for 3-4 hours to mimic the texture of churned ice cream, though it won’t be as smooth.
How do I prevent the apple pieces from sinking to the bottom?
Make sure the apple filling is fully cooled before mixing into the base. Stir gently but thoroughly to distribute evenly. The oat or almond flour also helps suspend the apples better during freezing.
Can I substitute the yogurt for a dairy-free option?
Yes, coconut or almond-based yogurts work well in this recipe. Choose unsweetened varieties to better control sweetness and maintain the creamy texture.
Is this recipe suitable for diabetics?
This recipe uses natural sweeteners and fruit sugars, which can be moderated. For diabetic-friendly versions, reduce or omit added sweeteners and use unsweetened plant milk and yogurt. Always consult a healthcare provider for personal dietary needs.
This gluten free healthy apple pie Ninja Creami recipe combines wholesome ingredients with the convenience of a modern frozen dessert maker, delivering a nostalgic yet nutritious treat you can enjoy year-round.
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