Apple Slab Pie: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for 8 Servings

Apple Slab Pie is a delightful dessert that will impress your friends and family. This amazing recipe combines sweet, juicy apples with a flaky crust, creating a dessert that is perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying at home. The rich flavors and beautiful presentation make this pie a must-try for apple lovers. Whether you are a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe will guide you through every step of the process.
Imagine slicing into a warm apple slab pie, the aroma of cinnamon and baked apples filling the air. The first bite reveals a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, with a buttery crust that crumbles just right. This pie isn’t just about taste; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy with those you love. In this guide, you will learn why this Apple Slab Pie recipe is so special, the ingredients required, and step-by-step instructions to ensure your success.
From family gatherings to festive holiday celebrations, Apple Slab Pie is versatile enough to fit any occasion. The generous servings make it easy to share, and its eye-catching appearance makes it a showstopper on any dessert table. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe stand out and why you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Apple Slab Pie is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying to make. Here are some reasons why you will love this recipe:
1. Large Servings: This recipe yields enough pie to serve a crowd, making it perfect for parties and gatherings.
2. Simple Ingredients: Most ingredients are pantry staples, allowing you to whip it up without a last-minute grocery run.
3. Effortless Preparation: The slab format makes it easy to prepare and serve, eliminating the hassle of individual pie slices.
4. Customizable Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties or add your favorite spices to make it your own.
5. Beautiful Presentation: The golden-brown crust and vibrant apple filling create a stunning dessert that will impress guests.
6. Family Tradition: Making this pie can become a cherished family tradition, creating memories with each bake.
With these highlights in mind, you’ll understand why Apple Slab Pie is not only a dessert but a delightful experience to share with those you love.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating your Apple Slab Pie will take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Here’s a breakdown of the time required:
– Preparation Time: 30 minutes
– Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
– Cooling Time: 15-20 minutes
These times can vary based on your kitchen setup and experience, but this framework should help you plan your baking session.

Ingredients

– For the Crust:
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 6-8 tablespoons ice water
– For the Filling:
– 6-8 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– ¾ cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces (for topping)
– For the Topping (optional):
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Granulated sugar, for sprinkling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating the perfect Apple Slab Pie can be straightforward if you follow these simple steps:
1. Prepare the Crust: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the chilled butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

2. Add Ice Water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape into disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Roll Out the Crust: On a floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to fit a 12×17-inch baking sheet. Transfer the rolled dough to the baking sheet, pressing it gently into the corners.
6. Add the Filling: Pour the apple filling into the crust, spreading it evenly. Dot the mixture with small pieces of butter.
7. Roll Out the Top Crust: Roll out the second disk of dough to fit over the filling. Place it on top, pressing the edges to seal. Cut slits in the top crust for steam to escape.
8. Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the top crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
9. Bake the Pie: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
10. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the pie to cool for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing.
Following these steps will help you create a beautiful and delicious Apple Slab Pie that everyone will enjoy.

How to Serve

Serving your Apple Slab Pie can enhance the overall experience. Here are some tips to consider:
1. Presentation: Cut the pie into generous squares and arrange them on a serving platter. A rustic presentation can enhance the warm, homemade feel.
2. Accompaniments: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the flavors.
3. Beverage Pairing: Pair slices of pie with a glass of cider or a cup of warm tea for a cozy touch.
4. Garnish: Consider topping with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
By focusing on these serving suggestions, you can create a memorable dessert experience that your friends and family will cherish. Enjoy your incredible Apple Slab Pie!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Apples: For the best flavor, choose a mix of sweet and tart apples. Fresh, in-season apples will yield the best results.
– Adjust Spices: Experiment with spices like cardamom or ginger to give your pie a unique twist.
– Let It Rest: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes for cleaner cuts.
– Serve Warm: Apple Slab Pie is best enjoyed warm, so consider warming it slightly before serving.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to get creative with your Apple Slab Pie! Here are some enticing variations:
1. Cranberry Apple Slab Pie: Add fresh or dried cranberries to the filling for a delightful tartness.
2. Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple filling before adding the top crust for an extra layer of flavor.
3. Nutty Crust: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into the crust for added texture and flavor.
4. Cheddar Crust: For a savory twist, mix shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the crust for a delicious contrast with the sweet filling.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep your Apple Slab Pie covered at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you prefer, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
– Freezing: To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Special Equipment

To make your Apple Slab Pie, you’ll need the following tools:
– Rolling Pin: Essential for rolling out the crust.
– Baking Sheet: A 12×17-inch baking sheet is ideal for this recipe.
– Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients.
– Pastry Brush: For applying the egg wash to the crust.
– Sharp Knife: For cutting the apples and making slits in the top crust.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen apples for the filling?
Yes, frozen apples can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before adding them to the filling.
How can I make my crust flakier?
Use chilled ingredients and handle the dough as little as possible. Also, try adding a bit of vinegar to the dough for extra flakiness.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
What type of apples work best for this pie?
A mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, provides the best flavor balance.
Is it necessary to peel the apples?
While peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, you can leave the skins on if you prefer more texture in your filling.

Conclusion

The Apple Slab Pie is a delightful and impressive dessert that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. With its easy preparation and delicious flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make time and again. The combination of sweet apples, warm spices, and flaky crust is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed as a snack, this pie is bound to create lasting memories for you and your loved ones.

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