Is there any protein in apple pie?

November 30, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the USDA, a standard slice of commercially prepared apple pie contains a modest amount of protein, typically around 2-4 grams, though this can vary by recipe and serving size. This might lead you to wonder, is there any protein in apple pie, and if so, where does it come from?

Quick Summary

An average slice of apple pie contains a small amount of protein, primarily from the enriched flour in the crust and trace amounts in the fruit. It is not considered a significant source of protein, but rather a carbohydrate- and fat-heavy dessert. The exact protein content depends on ingredients and serving size.

Key Points

Low Protein Source: A standard slice of apple pie contains only 2-4 grams of protein, making it a poor source for your daily needs.
Protein from the Crust: The small amount of protein present in apple pie comes primarily from the enriched flour used to make the crust.
High in Carbs and Sugar: Apple pie is predominantly a source of carbohydrates, fats, and sugars, not protein.
Boost Protein Content: You can increase the protein by adding protein powder to the crust, incorporating Greek yogurt into the filling, or serving with high-protein toppings.
Homemade vs. Commercial: Nutritional values vary based on the recipe; homemade pies might have slightly different protein amounts than commercially produced ones.
Consider the Toppings: Toppings like protein ice cream, Greek yogurt, or a nut crumble are easy ways to add more protein to your dessert.

The Surprising Source of Protein in Apple Pie

While not a significant source of protein, an apple pie does contain a few grams per slice. The primary contributors of this protein are not the apples themselves, which are mostly water and carbohydrates, but the other ingredients used to construct this popular dessert. The most notable source is the crust, which is made from wheat flour. Enriched or all-purpose flour, the typical choice for pie crusts, contains gluten, a complex protein that helps give the crust its structure and texture. The amount of protein is small compared to high-protein foods, but it's where the majority of the protein content in a standard pie slice originates.

Additional protein can come from dairy products used in the recipe. For example, some recipes call for milk or eggs to bind the dough or to create an egg wash for a golden-brown finish. While these are used in small quantities, they contribute to the final protein count. When it comes to the filling, the apples themselves contain only a negligible amount of protein, less than 1 gram per 100 grams of fruit. Any spices, like cinnamon or nutmeg, contribute no meaningful protein.

Comparing Protein in Different Pie Recipes

The protein content in apple pie is not universal and can vary significantly based on whether it's homemade, store-bought, or from a fast-food restaurant. For example, a restaurant pie might contain more protein due to a different crust formulation, while a homemade pie's content depends on the baker's specific recipe and ingredients. Below is a comparison of different types of apple pie.


Feature	Commercially Prepared Pie	Homemade Two-Crust Pie	McDonald's Baked Apple Pie
Protein per Serving	~2-4 grams	~4 grams	~2 grams
Crust Ingredients	Enriched flour, shortening	Flour, butter, possibly milk	Varies, can contain enriched flour
Primary Macronutrient	Carbohydrates	Carbohydrates	Carbohydrates
Total Calories	Varies, e.g., ~296 kcal	Varies, e.g., ~411 kcal	Varies, e.g., ~230 kcal
Additional Ingredients	Preservatives, stabilizers	Basic baking ingredients	Varies by global market

How to Increase Protein in an Apple Pie

For those looking to boost the protein content of their apple pie, several modifications can be made during the baking process. These changes can transform the dessert into a more substantial, macro-friendly treat.

Add protein powder to the crust: One of the most effective ways is to replace a portion of the all-purpose flour with a protein powder, such as a vanilla-flavored whey or casein protein. This can be done with a 1:1 or 1:2 substitution ratio, though you may need to adjust liquid to maintain the dough's consistency.
Include Greek yogurt in the filling: Swapping some sugar in the filling for plain Greek yogurt adds a creamy texture and a significant protein boost. Some creative recipes have even incorporated it into the crust itself.
Use nut butter: Incorporating a tablespoon or two of a high-protein nut butter like peanut or almond butter into the filling can subtly increase the protein content while adding a rich flavor profile. This also adds healthy fats.
Top with a protein-rich crumble: Instead of a traditional crumb topping, use a mixture of protein powder, ground oats, and a touch of butter. You can also mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for additional protein and texture.
Serve with high-protein sides: Topping your slice of apple pie with a scoop of protein ice cream or a side of Greek yogurt can be the simplest way to add more protein to your dessert without altering the recipe.

Conclusion: Is there any protein in apple pie?

Yes, there is a small amount of protein in apple pie, derived mainly from the flour used in the crust and any minor dairy additions. However, it is fundamentally a dessert high in carbohydrates and sugar, not a source of significant protein. For those on a high-protein diet or simply looking to make their dessert more nutritionally balanced, there are several simple yet effective ways to increase the protein content. By modifying the crust or adding protein-rich toppings, you can enjoy the classic flavor of apple pie with a nutritional twist. Ultimately, whether you prefer the traditional version or a protein-enhanced alternative, understanding the sources of nutrients allows for more mindful eating. For more detailed information on food ingredients, refer to the USDA's food database. [https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/]

Frequently Asked Questions

The protein in apple pie primarily comes from the wheat flour used to make the crust. Small amounts can also be contributed by any milk or egg used in the recipe.

A standard slice of apple pie typically contains between 2 and 4 grams of protein, though this can vary depending on the recipe and serving size.

No, apple pie is not considered a high-protein food. It is primarily composed of carbohydrates, fats, and sugars, with a very small percentage of protein.

You can add more protein by mixing protein powder into the crust or filling, incorporating Greek yogurt, adding nut butters to the filling, or serving with protein-rich toppings like protein ice cream.

The apples in the pie provide a negligible amount of protein, typically less than 1 gram per 100 grams of fruit. The majority of the pie's protein comes from the crust.

Yes, you can make a healthier, higher-protein apple pie by substituting some ingredients. Options include using protein powder in the crust or filling and opting for less sugar and healthier fats.

The protein content can vary. Some commercially prepared pies may contain slightly different amounts depending on the specific flour and ingredients used, but generally, the protein level remains low across both homemade and store-bought varieties.