This Apple Slab Pie is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining a buttery, flaky crust with a spiced apple filling that’s perfect for sharing. Baked on a sheet pan, this slab pie is ideal for potlucks, parties, or family gatherings. With its warm cinnamon-nutmeg aroma and sweet-tart apples, it’s a comforting dessert that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to make and serves a large group!
📋 Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter , cold and cut into small cubes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 6–8 tablespoons ice water
For the Apple Filling:
- 8–10 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (to thicken the filling)
- 2 tablespoons butter , cut into small pieces
For Assembly:
- 1 egg , beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for sprinkling on top)
- Powdered sugar glaze (optional, see instructions below)
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Make the Pie Crust
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour , salt , and sugar .
- Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter throughout.
- Add Ice Water: Gradually add the ice water , one tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork until the dough begins to clump together. Be careful not to overwork the dough—it should be slightly crumbly but hold together when pressed.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two discs, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes . This step helps the dough firm up and makes it easier to roll out.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
- Mix the Apples and Spices: In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning and add a tangy flavor. Add the granulated sugar , brown sugar , cinnamon , nutmeg , and flour , and toss until the apples are evenly coated. Set the filling aside while you roll out the dough.
Step 3: Assemble the Slab Pie
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of the chilled dough into a large rectangle, about the size of your rimmed baking sheet (9×13 inches or larger ). Carefully transfer the dough to the baking sheet, pressing it into the corners and trimming any excess.
- Add the Apple Filling: Evenly spread the apple mixture over the bottom crust, making sure the apples are distributed in a single layer. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter to add richness as the pie bakes.
- Top with the Second Crust: Roll out the second disc of dough into another rectangle and carefully place it over the apple filling. Pinch the edges of the top and bottom crusts together to seal, then crimp or flute the edges for decoration. Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the top crust with the beaten egg to give the pie a beautiful golden color. If desired, sprinkle the top with sugar for added sweetness and texture.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the pie for 40–45 minutes , or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the slits.
- Cool: Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to cut clean slices.
Step 5: Optional Glaze
- If you like your pies a little sweeter, you can drizzle the cooled pie with a powdered sugar glaze. To make the glaze, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk until smooth, then drizzle over the pie in a zigzag pattern.
Tips for Success
- Apple Selection: Use a mix of tart (like Granny Smith) and sweet (like Honeycrisp) apples for a balanced flavor.
- Prevent Soggy Crust: Tossing the apples with flour before assembling helps absorb excess moisture and prevents a soggy bottom crust.
- Make Ahead: The pie crust can be made and refrigerated up to 2 days in advance or frozen for longer storage. Thaw in the fridge before rolling out.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days . Reheat slices in the oven for best results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Apple Slab Pie is a show-stopping dessert that’s as practical as it is delicious. The buttery, flaky crust pairs perfectly with the spiced apple filling, while the slab format makes it easy to serve a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a classic fall treat, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Dive into this warm, comforting pie and let it become a family favorite!
⏱ Time
- Preparation Time: 45 minutes
- Baking Time: 40–45 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: ~2 hours
🍽 Servings:
12–16 servings
🔥 Calories (Approximate):
~250 kcal per serving (varies based on portion size and optional glaze)
