Apple Slab Pie is a delicious, easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s a twist on the classic apple pie, baked in a large, rectangular pan—ideal for parties, picnics, or family gatherings. The buttery, flaky crust paired with sweet and tangy apple filling makes it a crowd favorite. Here’s a simple recipe to make your own Apple Slab Pie!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- 6–8 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 6–8 medium apples (a mix of tart and sweet apples works best, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (to thicken)
- 1 tablespoon butter (to dot the filling)
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for brushing on the crust)
Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Cut in the butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter, fork, or your hands, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter.
- Add ice water: Gradually add 6 tablespoons of ice water and stir until the dough begins to come together. If needed, add an additional tablespoon of water, one teaspoon at a time.
- Divide the dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and divide it into two equal pieces. Form each piece into a disc. Wrap the discs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
- Peel and slice the apples: Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. You can use a mandolin for even slices, or cut them by hand.
- Mix the filling ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour until well combined. Let the mixture sit while you prepare the crust.
3. Roll Out the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the dough: Take one disc of dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 12×16 inches) to fit a standard 9×13-inch baking dish. Transfer the dough to the dish and gently press it into the corners and up the sides.
- Fill the crust: Pour the apple filling into the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.
4. Add the Top Crust:
- Roll out the second disc of dough: Roll out the second disc of dough into a rectangle the same size as the baking dish.
- Place the top crust: Carefully lay the top crust over the apples. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges, and pinch the edges of the top and bottom crusts together to seal. You can also crimp the edges for a decorative look.
- Vent the crust: Use a sharp knife to make a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking.
5. Brush with Egg Wash:
- Apply the egg wash: Brush the top crust with the beaten egg wash to give it a golden, shiny finish.
6. Bake the Pie:
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the edges of the crust begin to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie shield.
7. Cool and Serve:
- Cool the pie: Let the pie cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set.
- Serve: Cut into squares and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence!
Tips for Success:
- Use a mix of apples: For the best flavor and texture, use a combination of sweet and tart apples. Granny Smith apples add tartness and structure, while Honeycrisp apples offer sweetness and juiciness.
- Make the crust ahead of time: You can prepare the dough a day or two ahead and keep it in the fridge for easier assembly.
- Add a streusel topping: For a crunchy, sweet twist, sprinkle a simple streusel topping (made from butter, sugar, and flour) over the top before baking.
- Serve warm: This pie is extra delicious when served slightly warm, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Enjoy this classic dessert with a twist, and let the delicious aroma of apples and cinnamon fill your kitchen!