Introduction

When it comes to desserts that bring warmth and nostalgia, few dishes rival the classic apple slab pie. With its generous fruit filling and flaky crust, this dessert captures the essence of fall with every bite. It's perfect for gatherings or family dinners, where it can be sliced into generous portions.

This recipe embraces the beauty of simplicity, making it easy for home cooks of any skill level to recreate. Each step, from preparing the crust to baking the apples, ensures that your slab pie turns out delectable and worthy of seconds. Gather your ingredients and prepare to impress!

Ingredients

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
The foundation of any great pie crust, all-purpose flour provides the necessary structure for the dough while allowing for a tender texture once baked.
1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
Butter adds rich flavor and flaky texture to the crust. Chilling it ensures that it remains solid during mixing and prevents the crust from becoming tough.
1 teaspoon salt
Salt is essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the crust. It balances the sweetness of the filling and gives the pie a well-rounded taste.
¼ cup granulated sugar
This sugar not only sweetens the crust but also aids in its browning during baking, contributing to a lovely golden color.
6 cups peeled and sliced apples (such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
Fresh apples are the star of the show, providing natural sweetness and tartness. Mixing varieties adds complexity to the flavor profile.
¾ cup brown sugar
Brown sugar adds depth and a hint of caramel flavor to the apple filling, complementing the fruit's natural sweetness beautifully.
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Cinnamon infuses warmth and spice into the filling, enhancing the cozy aroma that wafts through your kitchen as the pie bakes.
2 tablespoons cornstarch
Cornstarch helps thicken the apple filling, creating a nice consistency that prevents the pie from becoming too runny once baked.
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Lemon juice brightens the flavors of the filling while preventing the apples from browning prematurely, ensuring a vibrant presentation.
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
An egg wash gives the pie crust a beautiful glossy finish, enhancing its visual appeal and providing an added crunch once baked.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the pie crust by mixing flour, salt, and sugar.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. This initial step combines the dry ingredients, which is crucial for an even distribution of flavors in the crust. Make sure to use a fork or pastry cutter to incorporate the cubed butter in the next step without melting it, which maintains flakiness.

Step 2: Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Using cold, cubed unsalted butter, mix until the dough resembles coarse crumbs. This technique is essential as it creates pockets of butter within the dough, which will steam in the oven to create the desired flaky texture. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to a tough crust.

Step 3: Add cold water slowly until the dough comes together.

Gradually adding cold water helps bind the ingredients without overhydrating the dough, which would make it too sticky. Mix until just combined; you want the dough to hold together without any dry patches. Form it into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to relax the gluten.

Step 4: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Preheating the oven properly ensures that your pie cooks evenly and achieves a golden-brown crust. It’s important to give your oven enough time to reach the desired temperature before placing the pie inside.

Step 5: Roll out the crust for the bottom layer and place it in a baking sheet.

On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit your baking sheet, allowing for some overhang. Transferring it to the sheet before adding the filling is crucial; this allows you to adjust the edges and make any necessary repairs if the dough tears.

Step 6: Prepare the apple filling by combining sliced apples with sugars, cinnamon, cornstarch, and lemon juice.

In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with brown and granulated sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, and lemon juice. This mixture not only flavors the apples but also thickens the filling as it bakes, preventing a soggy pie. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the apples to begin releasing their juices.

Step 7: Fill the crust with the apple mixture, fluffing it up.

Spoon the apple mixture into the prepared crust, fluffing it slightly to prevent a dense filling. This helps distribute the apples evenly and allows for a more attractive presentation once baked. Be sure to pile the apples higher in the center, as they will shrink while baking.

Step 8: Roll out the top crust and place it over the apple filling.

Roll out the second portion of the dough and lay it over the filled pie. Trim and seal the edges, then create slits for steam release. This step is vital as it not only allows the filling to bubble up but also ensures the crust cooks through without becoming soggy.

Step 9: Brush the crust with the beaten egg.

Applying the egg wash over the crust before baking will result in a beautifully golden and shiny finish. This final touch elevates the presentation, making your apple slab pie look as good as it tastes.

Step 10: Bake for 45-55 minutes or until the filling is bubbly and the crust is golden.

Place the pie in the preheated oven, and bake until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown. If needed, cover the edges with foil to prevent them from burning while the center cooks through. This baking step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 11: Let the pie cool before slicing.

Allowing the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing helps the filling set, preventing it from oozing out when served. This patience pays off with cleaner slices and a more appealing presentation.

Choosing the Right Apples

The choice of apples is critical for an excellent slab pie. Combining tart varieties like Granny Smith with sweeter ones like Honeycrisp creates a balanced flavor profile. Tart apples provide the necessary zing while sweeter varieties lend a lovely natural sweetness. Experimenting with different combinations allows for personalization in flavor and texture.

Creating a Flaky Crust

The secret to a flaky pie crust lies in the temperature of your ingredients and the technique used. Keeping the butter cold and not overworking the dough ensures that the crust maintains its texture. It’s crucial to handle the dough as little as possible to achieve that desired flakiness. Consider refrigerating the rolled-out dough again before baking for added assurance.

Serving Suggestions for Apple Slab Pie

Apple slab pie is best enjoyed warm and can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. Drizzling caramel sauce over the top adds an extra layer of sweetness and sophistication. This pie not only serves as a dessert but can also be a delightful addition to brunch or a casual gathering.

FAQs

What if my apple filling is too watery?

If the filling turns out too watery, it may be due to the apples releasing excess juice. Adding more cornstarch or letting the filling sit longer before baking can help absorb some of that moisture.

Can I use other fruits in my slab pie?

Yes, other fruits like pears, peaches, or berries can be used in combination with apples or on their own. Just adjust the sugar and spice levels according to the fruit's sweetness and flavor profile.

What should I do if my crust is too thick?

If your crust is too thick, consider rolling it out thinner next time. For now, you can trim off excess dough before baking or use a fork to poke holes in the thick areas to ensure proper cooking.

How can I enhance the sweetness of the filling?

To brighten the sweetness, you can increase the amount of sugar or add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the filling. Balancing the tartness from the apples is key, so taste the mixture before baking.

What if the crust gets too brown before the pie is done?

If you notice the edges of the crust browning too quickly, cover them with strips of aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the center to continue baking.

Is it possible to make a lattice top for my slab pie?

Absolutely! A lattice top adds an appealing visual element to the pie. Simply roll out smaller strips of dough, weave them over the filling, and trim the edges as needed before baking.

Conclusion

Making an apple slab pie is a rewarding experience that brings flavors of fall right to your table. This easy, crowd-friendly dessert can be adapted to suit personal tastes, making it a favorite for any occasion.

Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this pie is sure to delight. With every slice, you’ll be reminded of the comfort that comes from homemade goodness. So, roll up your sleeves and indulge in this timeless classic.

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