Step 1: Make the Crust
- Mix dry ingredients : In a bowl, whisk together flour , salt , and sugar .
- Cut in butter : Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add water : Drizzle in ice water 1 tbsp at a time, mixing until dough forms. Divide into 2 balls (1 for bottom crust, 1 for top).
- Chill dough : Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes (keeps crust flaky!).
Step 2: Prep the Apples
- Slice apples : Thinly slice apples and toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Mix filling : In a large bowl, combine apples with sugar , flour , cinnamon , nutmeg , ginger , and vanilla (if using). Let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) .
- Roll out bottom crust : On a floured surface, roll dough into a 14x19-inch rectangle . Transfer to a jelly roll pan (13x18-inch) or large baking sheet with edges. Press dough into the pan, trimming edges.
- Add filling : Spread apple mixture evenly over the crust. Dot with 1 tbsp butter pieces .
- Add topping (optional) : Mix brown sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle over apples. Add butter pieces and nuts if desired.
- Roll out top crust : Roll second dough ball into a rectangle. Cut into strips or a lattice design. Place over filling, sealing edges by crimping with a fork. Brush with milk or egg wash for shine.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Prevent burning : Cover edges of the crust with foil if browning too quickly.
- Bake for 60–70 minutes , until crust is golden and apples are bubbly.
- Check doneness : A knife inserted into the center should come out hot and slightly gooey.
Step 5: Cool & Serve
- Let the pie cool for 2–3 hours (this helps the filling set).
- Serve warm or at room temperature with vanilla ice cream , whipped cream , or caramel sauce .
Pro Tips for Perfection
- Apple Mix : Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for balance.
- Crumb Topping : For extra crunch, mix ½ cup oats, ¼ cup sugar, 2 tbsp butter until crumbly, and sprinkle over filling.
- Avoid Sogginess : Pat apples dry with a towel before mixing to reduce moisture.
- Crispy Edges : Remove foil in the last 15 minutes of baking for a golden top.
Customization Ideas
- Caramel Swirl : Drizzle caramel over the filling before adding the top crust.
- Cheesecake Variation : Add a layer of cream cheese filling before the apples.
- Pumpkin Spice Twist : Mix in 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice with the apples.
- Wine-Soaked Apples : Toss apples with 2 tbsp apple cider or Calvados for extra depth.
Nutrition (Per Slice)
- Calories : ~350
- Fat : 15g
- Carbs : 50g
- Fiber : 3g
Why It’s a Crowd-Pleaser
This Apple Slab Pie is the ultimate comfort dessert—thick, juicy, and served straight from the oven. Its rustic charm and generous portions make it a hit at any occasion!
Grandma’s Wisdom
- Rest the Pie : Cooling ensures the filling sets and flavors meld.
- Crispy Crust Hack : Brush the bottom crust with a little melted butter before adding filling.
- Make Ahead : Prepare the dough and filling the night before—just assemble and bake!
Final Touches
- Garnish : Dust with powdered sugar or top with a cinnamon stick.
- Serve with : A drizzle of salted caramel or a scoop of spiced rum ice cream.
Your New Favorite Fall Dessert! This slab pie is a showstopper—think of it as a cozy blanket in pastry form. Perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or sneaky midnight snacks!
Let us know if you add your own twists—tag us in your photos! 🍎✨
Enjoy! 🍰