Yummy Apple Slab Pie

Apple slab pie is a larger, shareable twist on the classic apple pie, baked in a rectangular pan with a beautifully flaky crust and a generous layer of spiced apple filling. What makes this dish special is the perfect balance between buttery pie crust and tender, flavorful apples. Each bite delivers the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and other fall spices alongside the natural sweetness and slight tartness of fresh apples.

More Hearty Desserts

People love apple slab pie for its rustic charm, generous portions, and versatility. Unlike traditional round pies, a slab pie is easier to slice for gatherings, perfect for fall celebrations, potlucks, or family dinners. The combination of a crisp top crust, rich apple filling, and an inviting aroma as it bakes makes it a comforting and indulgent treat that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This apple slab pie recipe stands out for several reasons:

The flaky crust is buttery, tender, and golden brown, providing the perfect base and top for the apple filling.
The spiced apple filling balances sweetness with subtle tartness, highlighting the natural flavor of fresh apples.
It is large and shareable, making it ideal for fall gatherings or holiday events.
The recipe is adaptable, allowing you to experiment with chocolate chips, caramel drizzle, or candy apples for a unique variation.
Preparation is straightforward, guiding even home bakers to achieve bakery-quality results without stress.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 35 minutes
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 12-16 slices

Ingredients

For the Crust:

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
6-8 tablespoons ice water

For the Apple Filling:

6-7 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or combination)
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar, packed
2 teaspoons cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Optional Toppings:

1 egg, beaten, for egg wash
Turbinado sugar for sprinkling

Substitution Notes:

Use frozen apples if fresh are unavailable; thaw and drain excess liquid before using.
Butter can be partially replaced with vegetable shortening for a slightly different crust texture.
Adjust sugar based on apple sweetness and personal taste preferences.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide into two disks, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

Peel, core, and slice the apples evenly. In a large bowl, toss apple slices with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and lemon juice. Ensure each apple slice is coated evenly to develop a flavorful filling.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough into a rectangle slightly larger than your baking pan. Transfer to the greased pan and trim edges if needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Slab Pie

Spread the spiced apple filling evenly over the bottom crust. Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the apples. Trim excess dough, then crimp edges to seal. Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with turbinado sugar if desired.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the edges brown too quickly, cover with foil for the remaining baking time. Allow the pie to cool at least 30 minutes before slicing.

How to Serve

Apple slab pie is versatile and can be presented in multiple ways to suit casual meals, festive gatherings, or dessert-focused occasions. Here’s how to serve it for maximum impact:

On a Platter for Sharing: Slice the apple slab pie into rectangles or squares and arrange them on a large serving platter. This makes it easy for guests to help themselves while showing off the golden, flaky crust and rich apple filling. Sprinkle lightly with powdered sugar or cinnamon for a visually appealing finish.
Individual Plates: Serve each slice on small dessert plates for a more formal or intimate presentation. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the spiced apples and buttery crust.
With Fall Beverages: Pair slices with warm beverages such as hot apple cider, coffee, or spiced tea. The warmth of the drinks enhances the cozy, autumnal flavors of the pie, making it a perfect seasonal treat.
Creative Garnishes: Add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce over the top for added indulgence. Toasted nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, can be sprinkled on each slice to add texture and visual appeal. Fresh apple slices or a light sprinkle of cinnamon can also enhance presentation.
Casual Serving: For potlucks, family dinners, or school events, place the pie in the pan it was baked in and let guests cut their own pieces. This rustic approach works beautifully with the slab format and reduces cleanup.
Warm or Room Temperature: Apple slab pie can be served warm for a comforting dessert or at room temperature for easy prep and transport. Reheating slices in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes brings back the fresh-baked aroma and enhances the flavor of the spiced apples.
Pair with Complementary Sides: For an elevated dessert spread, serve apple slab pie alongside fresh fruit, a cheese board, or a scoop of caramel or vanilla ice cream. This adds variety to the table and highlights the flavors of fall.
For Breakfast or Brunch: Apple slab pie can also be served as a sweet breakfast or brunch option. Top with yogurt, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of granola to transform it into a delicious morning treat.

Additional Tips

Use a sharp knife or mandoline for uniform apple slices to ensure even cooking.
Let the filling rest for 10 minutes after tossing with sugar and spices; this draws out juices and enhances flavor.
Chill the crust dough well to achieve a flaky texture.
Use a light dusting of flour when rolling dough to prevent sticking without altering texture.
Rotate the pie halfway through baking for even browning.

Recipe Variations

Candy Apple Slab Pie: Add a drizzle of homemade caramel or incorporate candy apple chunks into the filling for a sweet, festive twist. This variation is perfect for fall treats and adds an extra layer of indulgence.
Chocolate Apple Pie: Mix in dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips with the spiced apple filling before topping with the crust. The combination of apples and chocolate adds a rich, decadent flavor that pairs beautifully with the buttery pie crust.
Apple Crisp with Pie Crust: Instead of a top crust, sprinkle a crisp mixture of oats, brown sugar, butter, and a hint of cinnamon over the apple filling. This gives the pie a crunchy topping while keeping the tender spiced apples underneath.
Spiced Apple Slab Pie: Enhance the filling with additional warm spices such as cloves, allspice, or cardamom for a deeper fall flavor profile. This variation intensifies the aroma and warmth of the dessert, making it ideal for cozy autumn evenings.
Apple Pie with Fresh Apples and Nuts: Add chopped toasted walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for a crunchy texture. This version pairs beautifully with the flaky crust and adds a nutty undertone to each bite.
Chocolate-Caramel Apple Slab Pie: Combine chocolate chips and caramel sauce in the apple filling before placing the top crust. This creates a luxurious layered dessert perfect for celebrations or holiday gatherings.
Apple Slab Pie Using Frozen Apples: For convenience, substitute fresh apples with thawed frozen apples. Drain any excess liquid to prevent a soggy crust. This variation ensures you can enjoy this fall dessert year-round.
Mini Slab Pies or Individual Servings: Instead of one large pie, make smaller rectangular or square pies. This allows for fun, portable portions and is perfect for parties or gifting during the holiday season.

Freezing and Storage

Room Temperature: Store loosely covered for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration: Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes for freshness.
Freezing: Wrap fully cooled pie in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 320
Carbohydrates: 50 g
Fat: 12 g
Protein: 3 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 28 g

Final Words

Baking an apple slab pie at home is a deeply satisfying experience that combines the comforting aroma of warm, spiced apples with the irresistible texture of a golden, flaky crust. This dessert is a celebration of fall flavors, showcasing the natural sweetness and subtle tartness of fresh apples, enriched with cinnamon, nutmeg, and other warm spices that make every bite comforting and indulgent.

What makes apple slab pie particularly special is its shareable format. Unlike traditional round pies, the slab pie allows you to cut generous slices for family, friends, or gatherings, making it ideal for potlucks, holiday dinners, or casual get-togethers. The generous filling layered between buttery pie crusts ensures each bite is satisfying and perfectly balanced.

Making this dessert at home also empowers you to experiment with flavors and textures. You can enhance the apple filling with caramel drizzles, chocolate chips, or toasted nuts, or add extra spices for a deeper fall profile. Even simple adjustments, like choosing a mix of sweet and tart apples, can elevate the taste and create a pie that’s uniquely yours.

Beyond flavor, baking this apple slab pie is a rewarding journey that allows you to practice professional techniques at home. Rolling out perfectly flaky crusts, balancing spices in the filling, and assembling a pie that looks bakery-worthy builds confidence and skill. The satisfaction of serving a homemade slab pie, fresh from your oven, is unmatched—the golden crust, bubbling filling, and aroma fill your kitchen with warmth and anticipation.

FAQ’s

Yes, thaw and drain frozen apples before using to prevent excess liquid in the filling.

Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a combination of sweet and tart apples work best.

Yes, pie dough can be prepared and chilled or frozen up to 2 days before assembly.

Yes, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, or a splash of caramel can enhance flavor.

Cover edges with foil if they brown too quickly while baking.