Apple Slab Pie

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect for Crowds: Serves 12–16 people easily—no need for tricky slices!
  • Flaky & Buttery Crust: Homemade (or store-bought) pastry creates a golden, melt-in-your-mouth base.
  • Customizable Filling: Adjust the sweetness, spices, or toss in extras like nuts or raisins to make it your own.
  • Easy to Slice & Serve: Rectangular slices are ideal for casual gatherings and easy serving.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble in advance, then bake whenever you’re ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crust:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed 🧈
  • 6–8 tbsp ice water
  • Optional: Store-bought pie dough for a quicker version.

For the Filling:

  • 6–8 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent browning and add brightness)

For Topping:

  • Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water)
  • Coarse sugar (optional, for sparkle)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prep
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan or rimmed baking sheet.

  2. Make the Crust
    In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
    Gradually add ice water, 1 tbsp at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.

  3. Roll Out the Dough
    On a floured surface, roll one disc of dough into a rectangle slightly larger than your pan. Transfer to the prepared pan, pressing gently into the edges.
    Roll out the second disc of dough for the top crust and set aside.

  4. Prepare the Filling
    In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and lemon juice until evenly coated.

  5. Assemble the Pie
    Spread the apple filling evenly over the bottom crust. Top with the second rolled-out dough, trimming and crimping the edges to seal.
    Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.

  6. Bake
    Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Rotate the pan halfway through for even baking.

  7. Cool & Serve
    Let the pie cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Sheet Pan Magic: Bakes evenly and feeds a crowd without the fuss of traditional pie slicing.
  • Cold Butter Trick: Ensures a flaky, tender crust that melts in your mouth.
  • Spiced Apple Filling: Classic apple flavors with room for customization based on your taste preferences.

Variations to Try

  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap in gluten-free pie dough and a flour blend.
  • Vegan Version: Use vegan butter and a flax egg wash.
  • Add-Ins: Stir in raisins, chopped pecans, or drizzle with caramel for extra flair.
  • Topping Swap: For a rustic look, replace the second crust with a crumb topping.

Tips for Success

  • Thinly Slice Apples: This helps them cook evenly and prevents a soggy filling.
  • Chill the Dough Properly: Ensures the crust stays flaky and is easier to work with.
  • Don’t Skip Cooling: Allowing the pie to cool helps prevent a runny filling when slicing.

Storage

  • Keep leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate to keep it fresh longer.

Serving Suggestions

  • Holiday Feast: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any fall gathering.
  • Casual Treat: Serve as dessert alongside coffee or tea.
  • Romantic Twist: Drizzle with honey or serve with spiced ice cream for an extra touch.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Slab Pie is the ultimate crowd-pleaser—flaky, spiced, and absolutely delicious. Whether you're hosting a big event or just in the mood for a comforting dessert, this recipe has you covered!

Your Turn!
Have you tried slab pie before? Let us know your favorite fruit combinations or serving ideas below. 🍎