Introduction to Apple Slab Pie
When it comes to homemade desserts, few options can rival the delightful charm of an apple slab pie. This unique twist on the classic pie offers a perfect blend of tender, buttery crust and sweet, spiced apple filling—all in generous portions that make it ideal for sharing. In a bustling household or at a gathering with friends, an apple slab pie is a showstopper, guaranteed to satisfy your guests' cravings.
Why Apple Slab Pie is the Perfect Homemade Dessert
So why choose an apple slab pie over a traditional pie? For starters, its generous size makes it a fantastic choice for feeding a crowd. With 24 servings from a single baking pan, you can indulge in comfort food without the stress of multiple pies cluttering your kitchen. Plus, this dessert has a fun, casual vibe that invites everyone to dig in.
The balance of crust and filling offers a bite that’s reminiscent of a cozy toaster pastry—just a touch sweeter and infinitely more satisfying. Filled with those tart apples and warming spices, this slab pie embodies the essence of fall, making it the perfect way to celebrate the season. If you’re looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that brings everyone together, you simply can't go wrong with this apple slab pie. Want more tips on baking? Check out resources from King Arthur Baking for expert advice!
Ingredients for Apple Slab Pie
Creating a delightful apple slab pie starts with selecting the right ingredients. So, let’s break down what you’ll need for that delicious crust and mouthwatering filling!
Essential ingredients for the crust
For the flaky, buttery crust that serves as the foundation of your apple slab pie, gather these essential ingredients:
- 5 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of any great pie crust.
- 4 teaspoons sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness to balance the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall taste.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps achieve a light texture.
- 1-½ cups shortening: Provides the necessary tenderness.
- 2 large egg yolks: These add richness and color.
- ¾ cup cold water: To bring everything together.
Key ingredients for the apple filling
The star of our apple slab pie is, of course, the filling! For that perfect combination of tart and sweet flavors, you’ll need:
- 5 pounds tart apples: Think Granny Smith for a robust taste.
- 4 teaspoons lemon juice: Keeps the apples fresh and brightens the flavor.
- ¾ cup sugar: To sweeten the filling just right.
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar: For depth and richness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Classic pie spice!
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds warmth to the mix.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
With these ingredients in your pantry, you're well on your way to wow your guests with this crowd-pleasing apple slab pie. For more cooking tips and ideas, check out Taste of Home for an extensive collection of recipes!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Apple Slab Pie
Baking an apple slab pie is one of the most rewarding experiences, especially when you're prepping for a gathering or want to impress friends with your culinary skills. Follow these steps to create a dessert that’s not only delicious but also easy to serve!
Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients
Before diving into the baking process, it’s essential to assemble all your ingredients. Here’s a handy checklist:
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For the Egg Yolk Pastry:
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5 cups all-purpose flour
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4 teaspoons sugar
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon baking powder
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1-½ cups shortening
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2 large egg yolks
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¾ cup cold water
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For the Apple Filling:
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5 pounds tart apples (think Granny Smith for a tasty tang!)
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4 teaspoons lemon juice
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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¾ cup packed brown sugar
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
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¼ teaspoon salt
Remember to peel and slice your apples thinly; this helps them cook evenly in the slab pie. Want to know why tart apples work best? Their acidity balances the sweetness, creating a perfect harmony.
Make the Egg Yolk Pastry Dough
Start by whisking together the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder in a large bowl. Next, cut in the shortening until it resembles coarse crumbs. Combine the lightly beaten egg yolks with the cold water, then pour it over your flour mixture. Gently toss with a fork until the dough begins to form. If it seems too crumbly, don’t hesitate to add water, one tablespoon at a time.
Once your dough is ready, divide it into two halves and roll one half out on a floured surface to fit the size of your baking pan (15x10x1 inches).
Prepare the Apple Filling
Now it's time to bring out those apples! Toss your sliced apples with lemon juice and layer half of them over the rolled-out dough in your pan. Mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a bowl, then sprinkle half of this mixture over the apple layer. Repeat the process with the remaining apples and sugar mixture for a flavorful filling.
Assemble the Slab Pie
Carefully roll out the second half of your pastry dough, covering the apple filling, and seal all the edges tightly. This is crucial because you want none of that delicious juice to escape while baking! Brush the top crust with milk and sprinkle sugar for a delightful finish. Don’t forget to create some vent holes to let the steam escape.
Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Bake your apple slab pie for about 50 minutes, or until the crust is beautifully golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Once baked, allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing into it. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unbeatable dessert experience! For an extra flavor kick, consider drizzling a bit of caramel sauce on top. Enjoy this apple slab pie with friends and family; they’ll surely be asking for seconds!
Want more dessert inspiration? Check out Taste of Home for more crowd-pleasing recipes!
Variations on Apple Slab Pie
Caramel Apple Slab Pie
Transform your traditional apple slab pie into a decadent caramel delight! Simply drizzle warm caramel sauce over the apple filling before covering it with the top crust. For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top after baking. This combination of sweet and salty will have your taste buds dancing! Find more inspiration for caramel recipes at Food Network.
Spiced Apple Slab Pie with Different Spices
Give your apple slab pie a flavorful twist by experimenting with spices! Instead of the usual cinnamon and nutmeg, consider adding cardamom, allspice, or even a pinch of ginger for a warm, aromatic profile. Each spice adds a unique character to your filling, making every bite a delightful surprise. You can explore spice combinations at Spice Disease for a more adventurous approach.
Experimenting with these variations allows you to tailor your pie to your personal taste and impress your guests. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Apple Slab Pie
Perfecting the crust
Achieving a flaky, tender crust is key for your apple slab pie. Use chilled shortening and avoid overworking the dough; less handling helps with flakiness. When rolling, maintain an even thickness to ensure it bakes uniformly. Pro tip: Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling it out to maintain its structure!
Tips for selecting apples
The right apples can significantly elevate your apple slab pie. Aim for a mix of tart and sweet varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. These not only add depth of flavor but also help keep the filling from becoming too mushy. Want a little extra zing? A splash of fresh lemon juice, as noted in the recipe, brightens the overall taste. For further guidance on apple selection, check out this helpful resource.
Serving Suggestions for Apple Slab Pie
Pairing with Ice Cream
One of the best ways to elevate your apple slab pie experience is by pairing it with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The rich, smooth texture of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, spiced apples and flaky crust. Plus, that delightful melting effect as it mingles with the pie filling? Irresistible. For an extra twist, try caramel or cinnamon ice cream to enhance those warm flavors even further.
Serving with Whipped Cream
If ice cream isn’t your go-to, whipped cream is another fantastic accompaniment for apple slab pie. Light and airy, whipped cream adds a lovely touch to each slice. You might even consider flavoring your whipped cream with a hint of vanilla or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a touch of extra flair. It’s all about bringing together that delightful blend of flavors for a truly satisfying dessert experience.
These simple additions can turn your delightful apple slab pie into a memorable centerpiece at any gathering. Happy baking!
Time Breakdown for Apple Slab Pie
Preparation Time
Get ready to roll! The preparation for your apple slab pie will take about 30 minutes. This includes mixing the crust and slicing those delicious apples. Make sure to have everything prepped ahead of time so that the baking process can be a breeze!
Baking Time
Once your pie is assembled, it’s time to pop it in the oven. Bake your apple slab pie for approximately 50 minutes at 400°F. Keep an eye on it; you want that crust golden brown and the filling bubbling beautifully!
Total Time
In total, you’ll be looking at about 80 minutes from start to finish. This makes it perfect for gatherings — you can have those scrumptious slices ready quickly, allowing you to enjoy your time with friends and family. How great is that?
Feel free to explore this guide on apple varieties to discover the best types for your pie filling! Enjoy your baking!
Nutritional Facts for Apple Slab Pie
Calories per serving
Each indulgent slice of apple slab pie clocks in at about 317 calories. Considering its size and the rich flavors, it’s a delightful treat that won’t completely break your calorie bank.
Sugar content
When it comes to sweetness, this pie contains around 26 grams of sugar per serving. While that may sound a little high, the natural sugars from the apples combined with the added sugars create a comforting balance.
Dietary considerations
While this apple slab pie isn’t gluten-free or low-carb, it can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed occasionally. Those with dietary restrictions might consider alternatives like almond flour or a sugar substitute to make it more suitable, making it a versatile option for gatherings. Always check with a nutritionist for personalized advice!
For more insights on healthy baking or tips on adjusting recipes, check out the American Heart Association or the USDA FoodData Central.
FAQs about Apple Slab Pie
Can I use frozen apples?
Absolutely! Using frozen apples is a great way to enjoy apple slab pie anytime. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to prevent a soggy crust. For best results, choose frozen apples that are similar to the tart varieties used in fresh pies, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
How do I store leftovers?
To store leftover apple slab pie, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to three days. If properly sealed, you can also freeze it for up to three months. Just remember to let it cool completely before freezing!
What’s the best way to reheat apple slab pie?
Reheating apple slab pie is simple! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then place the pie on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. For a quicker option, you can microwave individual slices for about 30 seconds, though the oven will keep that crust deliciously flaky. Enjoy your slice of comfort!
For more tips, check out resources from the USDA on food storage or Taste of Home.
Conclusion on Apple Slab Pie
Homemade desserts are all about simplicity and joy! This apple slab pie combines a flaky crust with a spiced apple filling, making it perfect for gatherings. Share it with friends and family, and embrace the experience of baking something delightful from scratch! For more tips on baking, check out Baking Tips from the Pros.
Apple Slab Pie
Equipment
- baking pan
Ingredients
EGG YOLK PASTRY
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 teaspoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 ½ cups shortening
- 2 large egg yolks lightly beaten
- ¾ cup cold water
FILLING
- 5 pounds tart apples peeled and thinly sliced
- 4 teaspoons lemon juice
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2% milk for brushing
- additional sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt and baking powder; cut in shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Combine yolks and cold water. Sprinkle over dry ingredients; toss with fork. If needed, add additional water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until mixture can be formed into a ball.
- Divide dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll half the dough to fit a 15x10x1-in. baking pan.
- Sprinkle apples with lemon juice; arrange half of them over dough. Combine the sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt; sprinkle half over apples. Top with remaining apples; sprinkle with remaining sugar mixture.
- Roll remaining dough to fit pan; place on top of filling and seal edges. Brush with milk and sprinkle with sugar. Cut vents in top crust. Bake at 400° until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly, 50 minutes.
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