Apple Slab Pie Recipe
If you have ever craved a dessert that combines the comfort of a classic apple pie with a rustic, homey charm, the Apple Slab Pie Recipe is here to steal your heart. This delightful dish offers tender, cinnamon-kissed apple slices nestled between flaky layers of buttery pastry, perfectly baked in a single, generous slab that’s ideal for sharing with family and friends. It’s a beautiful blend of simple ingredients and straightforward steps that come together to create a timeless dessert that invites cozy evenings and warm smiles.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the foundation of any great pie, and this Apple Slab Pie Recipe is no exception. Each component is selected not only for flavor but also for how it contributes to texture and the overall harmony of the pie.
- Pie crusts (2): Use store-bought for convenience or homemade for that extra personal touch and flakiness.
- Large apples (6): Peeled and sliced; choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of tartness and sweetness.
- Sugar (3/4 cup): Adds sweetness and helps create a glossy, syrupy filling.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Gives depth with its caramel notes and moist texture.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the flavors and keeps the apples from browning.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): The quintessential spice that brings warm, inviting aroma and taste.
- Ground nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon): A subtle spice that enhances the pie’s complexity.
- Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): Thickens the natural juices to keep the filling luscious and not runny.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Small pats dot the filling for richness and a silky finish.
- Egg (1): Whisked for an egg wash to achieve a beautifully golden, shiny crust.
How to Make Apple Slab Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C). As it warms, roll out one of the pie crusts and gently press it into a 9 by 13-inch baking dish. This sets the stage for your luscious apple filling and ensures a sturdy base.
Step 2: Mix the Apple Filling
In a large mixing bowl, toss together those beautifully sliced apples with sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and salt. Make sure each slice is generously coated, as this step is crucial for marrying all the flavors into a perfectly spiced filling that’s juicy but not watery.
Step 3: Fill the Crust
Pour the apple mixture right into your prepared crust, spreading it evenly to fill every corner. Next, dot the filling with small pieces of butter – this little touch adds a buttery silkiness that elevates every bite of the pie.
Step 4: Top with the Second Crust
Roll out your second pie crust and carefully lay it over the apple filling. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges and give the border a good crimp to seal in all that goodness. This keeps the filling intact as it bakes and creates that signature slab pie look.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Vent
Brush the top of the pie with the beaten egg. This step is a game changer for that gorgeous, glossy golden finish that makes your Apple Slab Pie Recipe irresistible. Use a sharp knife to cut a few small slits in the crust – these vents allow steam to escape, keeping the crust crisp and preventing it from getting soggy.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your pie in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Wait for the crust to turn a stunning golden brown and for the apple filling to bubble enticingly underneath. It’s a true joy to watch your kitchen fill with those classic apple pie aromas during this time.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Patience is key here. Let your freshly baked Apple Slab Pie Recipe cool before slicing. This helps the filling set nicely, making each piece neat and luscious, ready to be enjoyed.
How to Serve Apple Slab Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A classic scoop of vanilla ice cream is always a perfect companion, melting slowly over the warm pie to create a heavenly contrast of hot and cold. Alternatively, a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted chopped nuts can add texture and flair.
Side Dishes
Think beyond dessert with complementary sides like a fresh green salad or roasted root vegetables if serving as part of a larger meal. For a more dessert-centric feast, add a side of custard or a hot cup of spiced chai to accentuate the pie’s warm flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your Apple Slab Pie Recipe into a beautiful centerpiece by serving it on a rustic wooden board garnished with cinnamon sticks and fresh apple slices. For special occasions, consider dusting with powdered sugar or serving individual slices atop pretty dessert plates with a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days, making it a perfect treat to revisit without needing to bake anew.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Apple Slab Pie Recipe another time, it freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely in cling film and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven experience, reheat slices of pie in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes. This method crisps the crust again while warming the filling gently, preserving the flavors and texture perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples in the Apple Slab Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! Mixing tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Fuji can add complexity to the flavor and texture, making the pie even more delightful.
Do I have to use store-bought pie crust?
Not at all! Homemade pie crust can add a wonderful freshness and personalized touch, but store-bought crusts offer great convenience without compromising too much on taste.
What if I want a spicier apple pie?
You can easily increase the cinnamon or add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger for a warming kick that suits your palate perfectly.
How do I keep the crust from becoming soggy?
Ensuring your fruit is well-coated with cornstarch and properly venting the top crust helps keep the filling thick and the crust crisp during baking.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting regular pie crusts with gluten-free versions, you can enjoy this Apple Slab Pie Recipe without gluten concerns while still savoring all the classic flavors.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and satisfying about baking and sharing a good slab pie, especially one as inviting and flavorful as this Apple Slab Pie Recipe. Whether it’s for a family gathering, a holiday feast, or a simple weekend treat, this pie promises to bring warmth and smiles with every slice. So, roll up your sleeves and give it a try—you might just find your new favorite dessert!
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Apple Slab Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This classic Apple Slab Pie recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy a generous apple filling baked between two flaky layers of pie crust. Perfect for gatherings, it combines tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with a buttery crust baked to golden perfection in a 9×13-inch pan, serving 12 people.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 2 pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
Filling
- 6 large apples, peeled and sliced
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
Egg Wash
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pie Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one pie crust and gently place it into a 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure it fits snugly at the bottom and sides.
- Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled and sliced apples with sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and salt. Stir well until all apple slices are evenly coated with the mixture.
- Fill the Pie: Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust in the baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Dot the filling with the small pieces of butter to add richness.
- Top with Second Crust: Roll out the second pie crust and lay it over the apple filling carefully. Trim any excess dough around the edges, then crimp the edges to seal the pie and prevent filling from leaking.
- Apply Egg Wash and Vent: Beat the egg and brush it evenly over the top crust to achieve a beautiful golden finish during baking. Use a knife to cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and the apple filling bubbles through the vents.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool fully before slicing and serving to allow the filling to set properly.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Braeburn for a balanced sweet-tart flavor.
- Ensure the apple slices are evenly coated with cornstarch to prevent a runny filling.
- Letting the pie cool before slicing helps maintain clean slices and proper filling consistency.
- Store leftover pie covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- This pie pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
