Crisp Comfort: A Slice of Heaven with Apple Slab Pie

Discover the ultimate comfort dessert with our Apple Slab Pie recipe. Enjoy flaky crust, juicy apples, cinnamon, and a touch of nutmeg in every slice!

Crisp Comfort: A Slice of Heaven with Apple Slab Pie

Few things encapsulate the coziness of autumn quite like the aroma of a fresh-baked apple pie wafting through your home. Enter the Apple Slab Pie—a delicious, shareable version that's perfect for gatherings. Its golden, flaky crust envelops a spiced apple filling that promises to satisfy your sweet cravings and leave your guests reaching for more.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water

For the Filling:

• 8 to 10 medium apples (e.g., Granny Smith, Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 2 tablespoons coarse sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the chilled, cubed butter and use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork until the dough begins to come together. Be cautious not to overwork the dough.
3. Divide the dough into two equal parts, shape each into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably an hour.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract. Ensure all apple slices are evenly coated.
2. Set the mixture aside to macerate while you roll out the dough.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 10×15-inch baking pan by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to fit the bottom and sides of your baking pan. Transfer the rolled dough to the pan, pressing it into the edges.
3. Pour the apple filling over the crust, spreading it evenly.
4. Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the apples. Trim and crimp the edges to seal. You may also cut the top crust into a lattice if desired.
5. Use a sharp knife to cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Step 4: Bake

1. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar for a touch of sweetness and sparkle.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
3. If the crust is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This ensures easier slicing and allows the filling to set.
2. Serve warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence.

Conclusion

There you have it—a comforting classic made even better with the simplicity and convenience of an Apple Slab Pie. It’s the perfect answer to feeding a crowd with minimal fuss, yet it doesn’t skimp on the flavor or nostalgic charm. As you enjoy each bite, allow yourself to be transported to a cozy autumn day, surrounded by the warmth of friends, family, and hearty laughter. Happy baking!