Apple Slab Pie

Step 1: Make the Crust

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. 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.
3. 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

1. 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

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. 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.
3. Pour the apple filling over the crust and spread it evenly. Dot the filling with the small pieces of butter.
4. 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.
5. 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

1. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
2. 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!

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Embrace the comfort of this delicious slab pie, and share a slice of homemade goodness with the people you love.