Apple Slab Pie from Scratch is a twist on the classic apple pie, offering the same delicious flavors in a larger, more convenient sheet pan form. Perfect for family gatherings, parties, or holidays, this pie allows you to serve a crowd without the hassle of individual pies. Made with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and a buttery, flaky homemade crust, Apple Slab Pie brings the warmth and comfort of a traditional apple pie in a larger format. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a dessert, this slab pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 350g (2 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 225g (1 cup) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• 120ml (1/2 cup) ice water (more if needed)

For the filling:

• 6 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well), peeled, cored, and sliced
• 150g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar
• 50g (1/4 cup) light brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cubed

For the egg wash:

• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon milk or water
• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional for sprinkling)

Directions:

For the crust:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Add the cold cubed butter to the bowl and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter.
3. Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough begins to come together. You may need a little more water, but be careful not to add too much.
4. Split the dough in half and form each half into a disc. Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours.

For the filling:

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a 9×13-inch baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and cornstarch. Toss everything together to coat the apples evenly.
3. Set the apple filling aside while you roll out the dough.

Assembling the pie:

1. Roll out one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface to fit the size of your 9×13-inch baking sheet. Transfer the dough to the sheet pan, pressing it into the edges.
2. Pour the apple filling onto the dough, spreading it evenly. Dot the filling with cubes of butter.
3. Roll out the second disc of dough and place it on top of the apples. Trim any excess dough and pinch the edges to seal the crust.
4. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk (or water) to make the egg wash. Brush it over the top crust and sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired.

Baking the pie:

1. Bake the slab pie for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
2. If the edges start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil and continue baking until done.
3. Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes:

• Apple Varieties: Granny Smith apples provide a tart contrast to the sweetness of the sugar, while Honeycrisp apples offer a nice balance of sweetness and tartness. Feel free to mix apple varieties for a more complex flavor.
• Flaky Crust Tip: For the flakiest crust, make sure your butter is very cold when cutting it into the flour. You can also chill your mixing bowl and utensils for extra coldness.
• Freezing Option: You can prepare the slab pie ahead of time and freeze it before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil and bake it directly from frozen, adding extra time if needed.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve your apple slab pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the perfect dessert.

Conclusion:

Apple Slab Pie from Scratch offers all the comforting flavors of a traditional apple pie, but in a more convenient, crowd-friendly form. With its flaky, buttery crust and sweet, spiced apple filling, this dessert is perfect for any occasion, big or small. Easy to prepare and delicious to eat, it’s a guaranteed hit that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re feeding a family or bringing a dish to a gathering, this Apple Slab Pie is sure to impress.