Apple pie is a quintessential American dessert, evoking memories of cozy kitchens and family gatherings. But for those looking to serve a larger crowd or simply enjoy more of that sweet, cinnamon-infused apple filling, apple slab pie offers the perfect solution. This dessert is a fun and flavorful twist on the traditional apple pie, baked in a large, rectangular pan that allows for a bigger, more shareable serving. Whether you’re hosting a party or bringing a dish to a potluck, apple slab pie is bound to be a hit.
What is Apple Slab Pie?
Apple slab pie is essentially a large version of an apple pie, made in a rectangular baking dish, usually a 9×13 pan. It features a buttery, flaky crust that encases a generous amount of spiced apple filling. The key difference between a traditional apple pie and a slab pie is the size and the way it’s sliced: while a regular pie is typically served in wedges, a slab pie can be cut into bars or squares, making it easier to serve and enjoy in larger portions.
Ingredients for Apple Slab Pie
To make a delicious apple slab pie, you’ll need basic ingredients found in most apple pie recipes:
- For the crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water
- For the apple filling:
- 6-8 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening)
- Pinch of salt
- For the topping (optional):
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (for sprinkling on top)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by making the crust. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to come together. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Make the Apple Filling:
While the dough chills, peel, core, and slice the apples. In a separate bowl, toss the apple slices with sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. This will create a sweet and spiced filling for the pie.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
Once the dough is chilled, roll out one of the discs on a lightly floured surface to fit the size of your 9×13-inch pan. Carefully transfer the dough to the pan, pressing it gently into the corners and edges. Trim any excess dough, leaving about an inch around the edges.
4. Add the Filling:
Pour the apple mixture into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
5. Top with the Second Layer of Dough:
Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the apple filling. Trim any excess dough and pinch the edges of the top and bottom crusts together to seal. For a decorative touch, you can create slits in the top crust or use cookie cutters to cut out fun shapes. Brush the top with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar for an added crunch and shine.
6. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the slab pie for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the edges begin to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
7. Cool and Serve:
Allow the apple slab pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to cut into neat bars or squares.
Variations and Tips
- Crispier Crust: For an even flakier and crisper crust, consider using a combination of butter and shortening in the dough. Shortening helps create a flakier texture.
- Different Apple Varieties: Experiment with different types of apples to find your favorite flavor combination. Tart apples like Granny Smith provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the filling, while sweeter apples like Honeycrisp give a mellow taste.
- Caramel Sauce: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top of the pie before serving.
- Toppings: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the warm flavors of the apple pie perfectly.
Why Choose Apple Slab Pie?
Apple slab pie is an ideal choice for large gatherings or events where a traditional pie may not go far enough. It allows you to serve a lot of people without sacrificing flavor or presentation. Additionally, its rectangular shape makes it incredibly easy to slice and serve in neat, uniform portions.
Whether you’re celebrating fall, a holiday, or just looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert, apple slab pie combines the best parts of apple pie with the convenience and scalability of a sheet-pan dessert. With its rich, buttery crust and spiced apple filling, it’s a dessert that’s sure to leave everyone wanting more.
