Lo-Cal Strawberry Pie
A light and refreshing strawberry pie with a graham cracker crust, sweet strawberries, and a sugar-free Jell-O filling. Perfect for a low-calorie dessert option that combines fruity flavors with a crunchy crust, making it ideal for those watching their calorie intake or seeking a healthier treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray a pie pan with Pam.
- Make graham cracker crumbs from the squares and mix with melted margarine, cinnamon, and 2 packages of Equal.
- Press the mixture into the pie pan to form the crust.
- Bake the crust for 5 minutes at 350°F (177°C).
- In a saucepan, mix water and cornstarch.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove from heat and set aside.
- Add the sugar-free strawberry Jell-O to the hot mixture and stir until dissolved.
- Allow the mixture to cool, then add 6 packages of Equal.
- Let the mixture cool for 30 minutes.
- Add sliced strawberries into the cooled filling.
- Pour the filling with strawberries into the baked and cooled crust.
- Chill the pie before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter crust, consider using whole wheat graham crackers instead of regular ones. If you can't find sugar-free Jell-O, you can substitute it with regular Jell-O, but adjust the Equal accordingly. To enhance the flavor, try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the filling. If you prefer a sweeter pie, increase the amount of Equal to taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pie chilled straight from the refrigerator for a refreshing dessert. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of low-calorie vanilla ice cream for added creaminess. For a fun twist, consider serving slices alongside a light fruit salad or with a cup of herbal tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the crust's texture, cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap rather than pressing it down tightly. Avoid freezing the pie, as the texture of the strawberries and filling may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lo-Cal Strawberry Pie contains roughly 3547 calories, with 11g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 356g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (26% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits in this pie?
Yes, you can substitute strawberries with other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the fruit is sliced or prepared similarly to the strawberries, and adjust the sweetener if using tart fruits.
Is there a way to make this pie vegan?
To make this pie vegan, substitute Weight Watchers margarine with a plant-based butter alternative. Additionally, ensure that the Jell-O you use is vegan-friendly, as some gelatin products are derived from animal sources.
How can I make the filling thicker?
If you prefer a thicker filling, increase the amount of cornstarch to 3 tablespoons. You may also let the mixture boil a little longer before adding the Jell-O to achieve a firmer consistency.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).