Prepare to discover the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert that combines the nostalgic warmth of homemade apple pie with the convenience of a sheet pan treat. This Apple Slab Pie is more than just a recipe – it’s a tradition passed down through generations, promising to create moments of pure culinary joy that bring families together.
Ingredients
US Measurements
For the Crust:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chilled shortening
- ½ cup cold water
For the Apple Filling:
- 8 cups apples (about 6-8 medium apples)
- 1 cup white sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons coarse sugar (for topping)
Metric Measurements
For the Crust:
- 313g all-purpose flour
- 6g salt
- 230g chilled shortening
- 120ml cold water
For the Apple Filling:
- 1.2kg apples
- 200g white sugar
- 5g ground cinnamon
- 30g all-purpose flour
- 30g butter
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 30g coarse sugar (for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pie Crust
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt
- Cut chilled shortening into flour mixture
- Use a pastry cutter or fork to create pea-sized crumbs
- Gradually add cold water, mixing until dough forms
- Divide dough into two portions
- Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes
- Prepare the Apple Filling
- Peel and core apples
- Slice apples into ¼-inch thick pieces
- In a large bowl, mix sliced apples with sugar
- Add cinnamon and flour
- Gently toss to coat apples evenly
- Assemble the Slab Pie
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Roll out first portion of dough on a floured surface
- Transfer to a 15×10-inch baking sheet
- Spread apple mixture evenly over the crust
- Dot with butter pieces
- Roll out second portion of dough
- Cover apple filling, sealing edges
- Cut several small vents on top crust
- Finishing and Baking
- Beat egg and brush over top crust
- Sprinkle with coarse sugar
- Bake for 45-50 minutes
- Look for golden brown crust and bubbling filling
- Let cool for 30 minutes before serving
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 380
- Total Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 24g
Preparation Time: 45 minutes Chilling Time: 30 minutes Baking Time: 45-50 minutes Total Time: Approximately 2 hours Servings: 12-15
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use cold ingredients for the flakiest crust
- Choose firm baking apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
- Don’t overwork the pie dough to maintain tenderness
- Allow pie to cool completely for cleaner slices
- Use a sharp knife to create decorative vents
- Chill dough helps prevent shrinkage during baking
Variations and Substitutions
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour blend
- Vegan Option: Replace shortening with coconut oil
- Spice Variations: Add nutmeg or cardamom
- Alternative Fruits: Try peaches or mixed berries
- Nut Addition: Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this pie ahead of time? A: Yes, prepare up to 2 days in advance and store at room temperature.
Q2: How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust? A: Pre-bake crust for 10 minutes and use a glass baking dish.
Q3: What are the best apples for this recipe? A: Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn work excellently.
Q4: Can I freeze the Apple Slab Pie? A: Freeze unbaked for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen.
Q5: How long will the pie stay fresh? A: 3-4 days at room temperature, or 5-7 days refrigerated.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Cover loosely with foil
- Store at room temperature for 2 days
- Refrigerate for extended freshness
- Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes
- Best enjoyed within 3-4 days of baking
Transform your kitchen into a haven of warmth and comfort with this irresistible Homemade Apple Slab Pie – a dessert that promises to create lasting memories!