Homemade Apple Slab Pie

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now let’s dive into how to prepare your homemade apple slab pie!

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with one pie crust, pressing it firmly into the corners and edges.
In a large bowl, combine your sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice. Toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated.
Pour the apple mixture into the prepared crust in the baking pan, spreading it out so it’s even.
Dot the filling with small pieces of butter for added richness.
Place the second pie crust over the apples, then trim any excess dough. Press the edges to seal them together.
Cut several small slits in the top crust to let steam escape during baking.
Brush the top crust with the beaten egg, and if you like, sprinkle on some coarse sugar for a nice finish.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the filling set.

Creative Ideas for Plating

The beauty of an apple slab pie is that it’s made to be shared, but that doesn’t mean you can’t serve it in style! Consider slicing it into generous squares and serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. For an extra touch, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top or sprinkle with a bit of cinnamon before serving. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea, and you’ve got the perfect cozy dessert.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

To ensure your leftover apple slab pie stays delightful, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for about 3-4 days. If you prefer to freeze it, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through—about 15-20 minutes should do it.

Extra Advice

For the best apple slab pie, choose a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This balance can elevate your pie’s flavor. If you prefer a thicker filling, increase the flour to 3 tablespoons. And don’t skip the lemon juice; it enhances the apples’ natural flavors and helps prevent browning.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations you might try:

Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple filling for crunch.
Incorporate raisins or dried cranberries for a chewy surprise.
Swap the spices for allspice or pumpkin pie spice for a unique twist.
Experiment with different crusts—try a whole wheat crust or a crumb topping for a fun texture change.

Common Questions

How long does it take to prepare this pie?

Preparation takes about 20-30 minutes, with an additional 45-50 minutes for baking.

Can I substitute the apples?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any apples you enjoy. Mixing varieties can add depth to your flavor profile.

How do I ensure my pie crust is flaky?

Make sure not to overwork the pie crust, and keep your butter cold for the best texture.