Apple Slab Pie

Ingredients

Crust:

3 ¾ cups (470 grams) all-purpose flour

1 ½ tablespoons sugar

1 ½ teaspoons table salt

3 sticks (12 oz. or 340 grams) unsalted butter, in cold cubes

¾ cup icy cold water

Apple Filling:

3 ½ to 4 pounds apples, prepped and cut into ½-inch pieces (roughly 10 cups)

A squeeze of lemon juice

⅔ to ¾ cup sugar (adjust to your preference and apple sweetness)

3 tablespoons cornstarch

1 rounded teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

¼ teaspoon ground allspice

⅛ teaspoon table salt

Finishing Touch:

2 tablespoons heavy cream or 1 whisked egg with 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

Crust:

In a bowl combine flour, sugar and salt. Add cubes of butter and crumble until they resemble pea pieces.

Gradually add water until the dough comes together.

Divide the dough into two portions with one piece. Wrap both in plastic wrap. Refrigerate, for 2 hours.

Filling:

Toss apple chunks with lemon juice to prevent browning.

In another bowl mix together sugar, spices and cornstarch. Combine this mixture with the apples.

Assembly & Baking:

Preheat the oven to 375° F (190° C). Line a baking sheet measuring 10×15 inches (25×38 cm) with parchment paper.

Roll out the portion of dough to fit the size of the pan. Allow it to chill briefly.

Spread the apple filling evenly over the rolled-out dough.

Roll out the portion of dough. Place it on top of the apples. Seal the edges securely.

Brush the crust with heavy cream or an egg wash. Make slits in it for ventilation purposes.

Bake on a tray for 40 to 45 minutes or until golden brown, in color.

Allow it to cool for 45 minutes before serving.

Notes

To create a gluten-free version of this Apple Slab Pie you can easily replace the all-purpose flour in the crust with a gluten-free flour blend. Popular brands, like Bobs Red Mill or King Arthur Flour, offer gluten-free alternatives that work perfectly for pie crusts.

Also make sure to use gluten-free cornstarch as some brands may have traces of gluten due, to cross-contamination.

Lastly, recognize to check ingredient labels for any hidden sources of gluten. Now you can savor your gluten-free dessert!

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of flour for the crust, such as whole wheat or almond flour?

While you can experiment with alternative flours, all-purpose flour is commonly used for a classic pie crust.

Substituting with other flours may alter the texture and taste of the crust.

What are the best types of apples to use for this pie?

You can use a variety of apples, but it’s often recommended to choose a mix of sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavor.

Popular choices include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix of different apple varieties.

Is there a suitable egg-free alternative for the egg wash on the crust?

Yes, you can use dairy-free or vegan alternatives such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk to brush the crust for a similar golden finish instead of an egg wash.

Can I make the pie crust in advance and freeze it?

Yes, you can prepare the pie crust in advance, wrap it well, and freeze it.

This makes it convenient to have on hand when you’re ready to assemble and bake the pie.

How do I store leftovers, and can I reheat the slab pie?

Store leftover apple slab pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Reheat individual slices in the microwave or warm the whole pie in the oven at a low temperature to maintain its texture and flavor.

Can I use a food processor to make the pie crust instead of crumbling the butter by hand?

Yes, you can use a food processor to make the pie crust.

It can make the process faster and help achieve a consistent texture, but be careful not to overmix the dough.

What is the best way to prevent the crust from becoming too soggy due to the moisture from the apple filling?

One way to prevent a soggy crust is to preheat the baking sheet, which helps the bottom crust cook more evenly and become crisp.

Another option is to brush the crust with a thin layer of beaten egg white before adding the filling.

Can I use frozen or store-bought pie crust for this recipe to save time?

Yes, you can use frozen or store-bought pie crust if you’re looking to save time.

Thaw the frozen crust and follow the assembly and baking instructions for the filling.

How do I know when the pie is fully baked and the apples are tender?

The pie is fully baked when the crust turns golden brown, and the filling is bubbling and the apples are tender.

You can insert a knife into the center to check the apple’s tenderness; it should go in without resistance.

What are some serving suggestions for this apple slab pie?

You can serve the pie warm or at room temperature. Common accompaniments include a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

It’s a great dessert to share with family and friends on various occasions.