How to make Apple Slab Pie





Apple slab pie is a rustic, crowd-pleasing dessert with all the warm, comforting flavors of a classic apple pie but made in a sheet pan to serve a larger group. Its buttery crust, tender apple filling, and cinnamon-scented goodness make it perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any gathering.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 1/4–1/2 cup ice water

For the Apple Filling:

  • 8–10 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Topping:

  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
  2. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two portions (one slightly larger for the bottom crust). Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Make the Filling

  1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are evenly coated. Set aside.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Roll out the larger portion of dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle slightly larger than your baking sheet (about 15x10 inches).
  3. Transfer the dough to a lightly greased or parchment-lined sheet pan, pressing it into the corners and up the sides.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

  1. Pour the apple filling onto the crust, spreading it evenly.
  2. Roll out the second portion of dough into a rectangle to fit over the apples. Lay it over the filling.
  3. Crimp the edges of the crust together to seal. Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Step 5: Add the Topping

  1. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with granulated sugar for a golden, sparkling finish.

Step 6: Bake

  1. Bake the slab pie in the preheated oven for 40–50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
  2. Let the pie cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
  • Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
  • Pair with a cup of hot cider or coffee for the perfect fall dessert experience.

Tips for Perfect Apple Slab Pie

  1. Choose the Right Apples: Use a mix of tart (Granny Smith) and sweet (Honeycrisp or Fuji) apples for a balanced flavor.
  2. Chill the Dough: Keep the dough cold for a flakier crust. Refrigerate it if it softens while rolling.
  3. Prevent Soggy Crust: Sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs or crushed graham crackers on the bottom crust before adding the filling.
  4. Adjust Sweetness: Taste the apples before baking and adjust sugar if needed.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for large gatherings or family dinners.
  • Easy to Serve: Cut into squares or bars for easy plating.
  • Classic Flavor: Everything you love about apple pie in a convenient, rustic format.