Healthy Copycat McDonald’s Apple Pies

When we first moved to Canada, grabbing McDonald’s with our mom felt like the biggest treat in the world. She worked nonstop to support us, so a Happy Meal and that golden apple pie were pure magic. Apple pie wasn’t something we grew up eating, so to little immigrant, it tasted like heaven in a box. Even now, every bite hits like the first time. The recipe is genius: a perfectly crispy, flaky crust filled with warm, gooey apples that practically melt in your mouth. It’s the definition of an all-American dessert and a core memory for so many kids like us. Now that we're a slightly older immigrant kid, we decided it was time to recreate this iconic treat, Bolbon-style – same nostalgic flavor, but with macros your trainer would be jealous of.

Before you start

• A nostalgic recipe for Healthy Copycat McDonald’s Apple Pies, inspired by childhood memories.
• These pies feature a crispy rice paper crust filled with warm, cinnamon-spiced Honeycrisp apples for a healthier twist.
• Variations include using different apple types, sweeteners, and even making the recipe vegan.
• Tips include preparing the filling in advance and baking options for those without an air fryer.
• The recipe pairs well with affogato, ice cream, and other comfort foods.

What stands out

These Healthy Copycat McDonald’s Apple Pies are a healthier, crispier, and naturally gluten-free remix of the OG version. The moment you bite in, you get that familiar warmth of sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples but with a delicate crunch instead of a heavy crust. The rice paper turns beautifully golden and shatter-crisp in the air fryer, almost like the flaky shell of the McDonald’s version but thinner and airier. Inside, the filling is cozy and jammy, with tender Honeycrisp apples that hold their shape and burst with flavor. Think of this as the adult, “we're a little more health conscious, but still want to enjoy myself” version of the classic drive-thru dessert we all know and love!

Honeycrisp Apples – we like this variety because it’s naturally crisp and sweet – just like the name suggests – while still having the slightest bite when cooked.

Water – Helps the apples soften and creates just enough syrup to make that sweet, gooey filling.

Lantic Natural Table Syrup – This is hands-down our favorite Canadian-made syrup with a maple-caramel taste and no high fructose ingredients! You can find it here Lantic Natural Table Syrup.

Cinnamon – Pairs beautifully with apples for that classic apple pie flavor.

Cornstarch – This is totally optional, but a cornstarch slurry gives the filling that thick, gooey texture you know and love.

Rice Paper Sheets – Naturally gluten-free and light, they hold the filling while crisping up nicely in the air fryer.

Egg + Milk Mixture – Acts as a natural glue and helps the rice paper turn golden in the air fryer.

Kitchen tip

Mix cornstarch with a little water before adding it to the apples. This prevents clumps and gives you that gooey filling.

Swaps

1. Try Granny Smith apples for extra tang. You could also swap Gala or Fuji for extra sweetness. Additionally, try mixing a couple of varieties for a burst of flavor.
2. If you don’t have Lantic Natural Table Syrup then feel free to use sweeteners such as maple syrup, agave, or honey instead.
3. In addition to cinnamon, add a pinch of nutmeg, clove, and allspice.
4. You could use phyllo dough or egg roll wrappers for this recipe in a pinch.
5. Make it vegan with a plant-based milk+oil instead of an egg-wash.

Serve it with

• A cozy Affogato.
• This better-than-McDonald’s Smash Burger .
• A scoop of ice cream.
• Our Air Fryer Potato Skins for a sweet+salty combo.

Questions

Can we make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the filling and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Then, assemble and air fry just before serving so they stay crispy.

Can we bake them instead of air frying?

Absolutely! Pop them in a 400F (204C) oven for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. Note that they will be slightly less crisp than the strong mark air-fryer version.

What can we use instead of rice paper?

Egg roll wrappers and phyllo dough work, too! However, phyllo dough will be crispier and closer to the rice paper version.

Can we make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, use a plant-based milk and skip the egg wash. brush the rolls lightly with oil before air frying.

Can we use different fruit?

Absolutely! You can make these with pears, peaches, or even mixed berries. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Ingredients

Makes 4 pies

• 2 honeycrisp apples, finely diced
• ⅓ cup water
• 30 ml table syrup
• cinnamon, to taste
• 1.5 tsp cornstarch, optional but makes it jammy
• 4 rice paper sheets
• 1 egg, whisked with milk
• ½ cup milk, whisked with egg

Equipment

• Nakiri Knife
• Cutting Board
• Medium Pot
• Air Fryer
• Measuring Cups + Spoons

Method

1. Add diced apples, water syrup and cinnamon to a pot. Cook on medium-high for 8-10 mins, until soft and slightly syrupy. Stir in cornstarch near the end.
2. Note: to avoid clumps, mix cornstarch in a little water to make a slurry and then add it in.
3. Whisk egg and milk together. Dip each rice paper in the egg–milk mixture. Add 1/4 of the apple filling, fold sides, and roll into a rectangle.
4. Air fry at 375°F (190C) for 13–14 mins, flipping halfway through until golden and crispy. Enjoy!

Kitchen notes

• Apple varieties: Try Granny Smith apples for extra tang. You could also swap Gala or Fuji for extra sweetness. Additionally, try mixing a couple of varieties for a burst of flavor.
• Sweeteners: If you don’t have Lantic Natural Table Syrup, then feel free to use sweeteners such as maple syrup, agave, or honey instead.
• Spices: In addition to cinnamon, add a pinch of nutmeg, clove, and allspice.
• Wrappers: You could use phyllo dough or egg roll wrappers for this recipe in a pinch.
• Vegan: Make it vegan with a plant-based milk+oil instead of an egg-wash.