Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crust
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with small pea-sized pieces of butter throughout.
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together (avoid overworking it). Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a rectangle, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are evenly coated, then set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough to fit the bottom and sides of a 10×15-inch rimmed baking sheet. Place the dough in the pan and press it gently to fit.
- Pour the apple filling over the crust and spread it evenly. Dot the filling with the small pieces of butter.
- Roll out the second portion of dough and place it over the apple filling. Press the edges together to seal, and trim any excess dough.
- Brush the top of the pie with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired. Use a sharp knife to cut a few slits in the top crust for steam to escape.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Let the pie cool on a wire rack before slicing into squares for serving.
Serving Suggestions
Apple Slab Pie is wonderful served warm, either on its own or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an extra-special touch, drizzle caramel sauce over each slice just before serving!
Tips for the Best Apple Slab Pie
- Choose the Right Apples: Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness and hold their shape well, while Honeycrisp or Fuji apples add natural sweetness. A mix of both works beautifully.
- Avoid a Soggy Bottom: For a crispier crust, sprinkle a tablespoon of flour or breadcrumbs on the bottom crust before adding the filling.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough keeps the butter solid and helps achieve a flakier crust. Don’t skip this step!
Why This Recipe Works
Baking this apple pie on a sheet pan means you get more servings from a single pie, while the thin layer of filling and crust ensures even baking. The addition of brown sugar and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg gives the filling a warm, caramel-like depth. And with its buttery, flaky crust, this slab pie is every bit as satisfying as a traditional apple pie—just in a bigger, more shareable form!
Conclusion
Apple Slab Pie combines all the best aspects of a classic apple pie with the convenience of baking on a sheet pan. Its rich flavors, tender apples, and flaky crust make it an ideal dessert for sharing with family and friends. Give this crowd-pleasing dessert a try, and experience the joy of baking a comforting, homemade apple pie that everyone can enjoy!
Embrace the comfort of this delicious slab pie, and share a slice of homemade goodness with the people you love.
