Every now and then, there’s a recipe that feels like a warm embrace, and this Apple Slab Pie is undoubtedly one of them. As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet scent of cinnamon and baked apples drifting through the air, I realized just how much joy this dessert brings. Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make!
I stumbled upon this delightful recipe during a weekend baking spree, searching for something to elevate my usual dessert game. With just a handful of ingredients—think sweet apples, crispy crust, and a dreamy vanilla icing—this slab pie comes together quickly and feeds a crowd. Unlike traditional pies, the slab format means no fussing with pie plates or individual servings; just cut, serve, and watch it disappear!
So, if you’re ready to impress your friends and family with a stunning homemade treat that has an irresistible flavor, this is the recipe for you! Let’s dive into how to create your own mouthwatering Apple Slab Pie that will have everyone begging for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Apple Slab Pie
- This Apple Slab Pie is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade dessert without the fuss.
- The combination of sweet apples and warm cinnamon creates a flavor that will remind you of cozy fall days.
- Its slab format is not only time-saving, but it also makes serving a breeze, which is perfect for gatherings.
- Plus, the beautiful glaze on top adds a stunning visual appeal that will wow your guests and make this dessert the star of the table.
Apple Slab Pie Ingredients
Get ready to create a delightful masterpiece!
For the Icing
• Powdered Sugar – adds a sweet finishing touch to your Apple Slab Pie.
• Vanilla – enhances the icing with a lovely flavor that complements the pie.
• Milk – use as needed to achieve your desired icing consistency.
For the Crust
• Flour – the base of the crust; all-purpose works best for a tender texture.
• Crisco – helps create a flaky crust; you can substitute with unsalted butter if preferred.
• Sugar – adds a hint of sweetness to the crust.
• Salt – balances the flavors and enhances sweetness.
• Egg Yolk – enriches the dough, making it more tender and flavorful.
• Milk – brings the dough together and adds moisture.
For the Filling
• Apples (Peeled, Cored & Sliced) – choose your favorite variety for sweetness and tartness; Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are great options!
• Sugar – sweetens the apple filling perfectly.
• Cinnamon – infuses the filling with warm, comforting spice.
For the Bottom Layer
• Cornflake Crumbs – gives a delightful crunch that keeps the crust from getting soggy.
For the Top Crust
• Egg – brush on top for a golden finish.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to baking a scrumptious Apple Slab Pie that your loved ones will adore!
How to Make Apple Slab Pie
-
Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. Spray your 10 x 15 x 1 pan with non-stick spray, ensuring it’s ready for that delicious pie crust to come!
-
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, Crisco, sugar, and salt. This mixture will form the heart of your crust, so mix it well until combined.
-
Incorporate Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk. Pour this into your flour mixture and stir until a dough begins to form. It should be cohesive and slightly sticky.
-
Divide Dough: Take your dough and divide it, keeping a little more than half for the bottom crust. This helps create a solid foundation for your delicious filling!
-
Roll Out Crust: On a floured surface, roll out the larger half of the dough until it fits the size of your prepared pan, leaving a little overhang for crimping. This will create a lovely crust layer.
-
Add Cornflake Crumbs: Sprinkle the cornflake crumbs evenly over the bottom crust layer. This will help absorb excess moisture from the apples, keeping your pie crust crisp.
-
Prepare Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples, then transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Toss the apple slices with sugar and cinnamon until they’re well coated. This will ensure every bite is bursting with flavor!
-
Layer Apples: Carefully layer the cinnamon-sugar apples over the cornflake crumbs. Make sure to spread them evenly for consistent flavor in every piece.
-
Top Crust: Roll out the remaining dough on a floured surface and lay it over the apple filling. Don’t forget to make slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking!
-
Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the crust is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling.
-
Cool Down: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for 15 minutes. This will help set the filling and make it easier to slice.
-
Make Icing: In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla, and enough milk to achieve your desired icing consistency. Drizzle this sweet glaze over your warm pie before serving!
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Perfect for busy home cooks, this Apple Slab Pie can be prepped in advance to save you time on those hectic days! You can prepare the crust and apple filling up to 24 hours ahead of time. Simply mix the crust ingredients, form the dough, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. For the filling, slice your apples and toss them with sugar and cinnamon, then refrigerate in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the dough, layer the cornflake crumbs and apple filling, add the top crust, and bake. This means you can serve a delightful homemade dessert with minimal effort, just as delicious as if you made it fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Apple Slab Pie
Room Temperature: Store uncovered at room temperature for up to 2 days. This allows the crust to maintain its crispness while keeping the filling fresh.
Fridge: If you plan to enjoy your Apple Slab Pie for up to a week, cover it with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge. This helps preserve its flavor and prevents spoilage.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pie either whole or in individual slices. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This will revive that delightful crispy crust and delicious, gooey apple filling!
What to Serve with Apple Slab Pie?
Every slice of this delightful dessert deserves the perfect companions to enhance its flavors and make your gathering truly special.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, rich ice cream melts beautifully over warm pie, adding a delightful contrast to the warm, spiced apples.
-
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over your slice takes the caramel flavor to the next level, adding extra indulgence to every bite.
-
Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream provides a luscious topping that balances the pie’s sweetness while adding a delightful fluffiness.
-
Coffee: A piping hot cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the pie, making it the perfect pairing for an afternoon treat.
-
Cinnamon Sugar Dust: Sprinkling a mix of cinnamon and sugar on top before serving adds an extra layer of warmth that perfectly complements the apples.
-
Chai Tea: The spicy notes of chai will mingle beautifully with the flavors of your pie, providing a warm and inviting beverage that enhances the cozy vibe.
-
Berry Compote: A tangy berry sauce adds a fresh burst of flavor alongside the rich, sweet pie, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
-
Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheese works surprisingly well with the sweetness of the pie, creating a sophisticated flavor combination that’s always a hit.
-
Sparkling Cider: For a festive feel, serve chilled sparkling cider that refreshes your palate between sweet bites of pie.
Apple Slab Pie Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and put your own twist on this delightful dessert!
-
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously inclusive version that everyone can enjoy.
-
Alternative Sweeteners: Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural, caramel-like sweetness that enhances the apple flavors beautifully.
-
Spiced Up: Add a dash of nutmeg or cardamom along with the cinnamon for a warm, complex flavor profile that teases the senses.
-
Berry Blast: Mix in a handful of fresh or frozen berries with the apples for a delightful tartness that adds vibrant color and texture.
-
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the apple mixture for a satisfying crunch that complements the tender filling perfectly.
-
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle with store-bought or homemade caramel sauce right before serving to elevate the sweetness and give an indulgent finish.
-
Cheese Topping: Sprinkle some crumbled blue cheese or goat cheese over the apples before adding the top crust for a surprising savory element that balances the sweetness.
-
Coconut Flakes: Incorporate unsweetened coconut flakes into the crust or filling for a tropical twist that adds flavor and chewiness to each bite.
These variations not only explore new flavor horizons but also invite you to tailor the recipe to your taste and dietary needs, ensuring each pie is a reflection of your creativity!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Apple Slab Pie, ensure that your crust is not overworked as this can make it tough; mix just until combined for a tender texture.
- Use cold Crisco or butter for the crust to achieve a flaky finish, and remember to keep your dough chilled before rolling it out.
- To prevent a soggy bottom, the cornflake crumbs should be evenly distributed and act as a moisture barrier between the crust and the apple filling.
- Check for doneness at the 25-minute mark, as oven temperatures can vary, and you want a golden crust and bubbling filling for the perfect pie.
Apple Slab Pie Recipe FAQs
What kind of apples should I use for my Apple Slab Pie?
Absolutely! For a balanced flavor in your Apple Slab Pie, opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination will give you a deliciously complex taste, enhancing the sweetness of the sugar and the warmth of the cinnamon. You can even try adding a touch of Golden Delicious for added sweetness!
How do I store leftover Apple Slab Pie?
Very easy! If you’re enjoying your pie within 2 days, simply cover it with a clean kitchen towel and store it at room temperature. For up to a week of freshness, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. This will keep the flavors fresh while maintaining the pie’s crisp crust.
Can I freeze Apple Slab Pie?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Apple Slab Pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then warm it up in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes to bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
What is the best way to prevent a soggy bottom crust?
To keep your crust crisp, sprinkle a layer of cornflake crumbs before adding the apple filling. These crumbs act as a barrier, absorbing excess moisture from the apples. Also, ensure you layer the apples evenly, as this helps distribute the juices during baking, keeping the bottom crispier for longer!
Can I adapt this Apple Slab Pie recipe for allergies or dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you’re concerned about allergies, consider using dairy-free alternatives like coconut oil instead of Crisco and almond milk in your icing. For gluten-free needs, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend; just ensure it contains xanthan gum for better texture. Enjoy the flexibility of making this delicious pie suitable for everyone!
Apple Slab Pie
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Spray your 10 x 15 x 1 pan with non-stick spray.
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, Crisco, sugar, and salt.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk. Pour into the flour mixture and stir until a cohesive dough forms.
- Divide the dough, keeping a little more than half for the bottom crust.
- On a floured surface, roll out the larger half of the dough to fit your prepared pan.
- Sprinkle the cornflake crumbs evenly over the bottom crust layer.
- Prepare the apples by peeling, coring, and slicing them. Toss with sugar and cinnamon.
- Layer the cinnamon-sugar apples over the cornflake crumbs evenly.
- Roll out the remaining dough and lay it over the apple filling, making slits to allow steam to escape.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until the crust is golden browned and filling is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 15 minutes.
- Whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla, and enough milk for icing consistency. Drizzle over warm pie before serving.
Leave a Reply