Apple Slab pie – cookingfoodss

Apple Slab Pie – The Perfect Crowd-Pleasing Dessert

If you love classic apple pie but need something that feeds a crowd, Apple Slab Pie is the answer. Baked in a large sheet pan instead of a traditional round pie dish, this version delivers the same buttery crust and warmly spiced apple filling — but in generous, easy-to-serve squares.

Perfect for holidays, potlucks, family gatherings, or bake sales, this slab pie offers all the comforting flavors of traditional apple pie with a practical twist. It’s easier to slice, easier to transport, and ideal when serving a large group.

Golden, flaky crust. Tender cinnamon apples. A sweet glaze finish. This is apple pie made for sharing.

Why You’ll Love Apple Slab Pie

🍎 Feeds a crowd (12–16 servings)
🥧 Buttery, flaky double crust
🍂 Warm cinnamon-spiced apple filling
🎉 Perfect for holidays and gatherings
✂️ Easy-to-slice rectangular portions

It’s everything you love about classic apple pie — just bigger and better for entertaining.

Ingredients (Serves 12–16)

For the Crust:

4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
1½ cups (340 g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
¾–1 cup ice water

For the Apple Filling:

8–10 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
¼ tsp salt
¼ cup cornstarch
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
1–2 tbsp milk
½ tsp vanilla extract

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
Add cold cubed butter and cut it in using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
Divide dough into two portions (one slightly larger for the bottom crust), wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

💡 Tip: Cold butter is the secret to a flaky crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples.
In a large bowl, combine apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla.
Toss until apples are evenly coated.

Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Step 3: Roll Out the Bottom Crust

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the larger dough portion into a rectangle large enough to fit a 10×15-inch (or similar size) rimmed sheet pan.
Carefully transfer the dough into the pan, pressing gently into corners and up the sides.

Step 4: Add the Apple Filling

Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust. Make sure the apples are distributed in an even layer for consistent baking.

Step 5: Add the Top Crust

Roll out the remaining dough into a rectangle.
Place it over the apple filling.
Trim excess dough and crimp edges to seal.
Cut small slits in the top to allow steam to escape.

💡 Optional: Brush the top with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar for a golden, bakery-style finish.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

If the edges brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil.

Allow the pie to cool for at least 1 hour before slicing to let the filling set properly.

Step 7: Optional Glaze

Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle lightly over the cooled pie for a sweet finishing touch.

Tips for the Perfect Apple Slab Pie

Use Mixed Apples: Combining tart and sweet apples gives deeper flavor.
Slice Apples Evenly: Thin slices cook more uniformly.
Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Cooling helps the filling thicken.
Avoid Overworking Dough: This keeps the crust tender and flaky.
Line Pan with Parchment (Optional): Makes removal easier.

Variations

Caramel Apple Slab Pie
Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples before adding the top crust.

Crumb Topping Version
Replace the top crust with a brown sugar streusel topping.

Dutch Apple Slab Pie
Use a cinnamon oat crumble instead of a second crust.

Apple Cranberry Slab Pie
Add 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries for a tart twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream
Add whipped cream for a lighter topping
Pair with hot coffee or spiced cider
Dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving

This dessert shines during fall and holiday gatherings but is delicious year-round.

Storage

Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigerate up to 5 days.
Freeze baked pie (wrapped tightly) for up to 3 months.

Reheat slices in the oven for best texture.

Why Apple Slab Pie Works So Well

The large surface area ensures evenly baked crust and filling.
Rectangular slices make serving easy and clean.
The double crust locks in juices while keeping apples tender.
It’s practical yet just as impressive as a traditional pie.

It’s the perfect balance of rustic charm and crowd-friendly convenience.

Final Thoughts

Apple Slab Pie delivers everything you love about classic apple pie — buttery crust, warmly spiced apples, and comforting sweetness — but in a format designed for sharing.

Whether you’re feeding a holiday crowd, bringing dessert to a potluck, or baking for your family, this slab pie guarantees generous slices and happy guests.

Simple, timeless, and irresistibly delicious — this is apple pie done right.