For the Crust:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 6–8 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 6–8 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping (Optional):
- Coarse sugar for sprinkling
- A drizzle of caramel sauce after baking
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Crust
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, apple cider vinegar, and 6 tablespoons of ice water. Gradually add this liquid to the flour mixture, mixing gently until the dough comes together. If needed, add more ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Prepare the Filling
- In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix well to coat the apples evenly. Set aside while you roll out the dough.
3. Assemble the Slab Pie
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan or rimmed baking sheet.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough into a rectangle large enough to fit the bottom and sides of your pan. Transfer it to the pan and press it gently into place.
- Pour the apple filling evenly over the crust, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Roll out the second disc of dough and lay it over the apples. Trim any excess dough, crimp the edges to seal, and cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Sprinkle the top crust with coarse sugar for a sweet, crunchy finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45–55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing.
5. Serve & Enjoy
For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice before serving. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate fall dessert experience.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for a balanced flavor.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: Keep the crust ingredients cold and handle the dough as little as possible for a flaky texture.
- Prevent Soggy Bottoms: Brush the bottom crust with a thin layer of beaten egg white before adding the filling to create a barrier against moisture.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the pie up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Why Apple Slab Pie Is a Must-Try
This recipe takes the classic apple pie and scales it up for maximum impact. Its rectangular shape makes it easier to slice and serve than a traditional round pie, and the combination of buttery crust, spiced apples, and optional toppings ensures every bite is pure bliss. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round, though it’s especially perfect during autumn when apples are at their peak.
Conclusion: Bring Comfort to Your Table
With its warm spices, juicy apples, and golden crust, this Apple Slab Pie is the epitome of comfort food. It’s a dessert that brings people together, whether you’re sharing it at a holiday feast or enjoying it on a cozy evening at home. So grab your rolling pin, fire up the oven, and prepare to wow your friends and family with this deliciously rustic creation.
Tag us in your photos—we’d love to see your Apple Slab Pie masterpiece! 🍎✨