Best Apple Slab Pie: A Crowd-Pleasing Autumn Dessert
Introduction
When the leaves start to change color and the air becomes crisp, it’s time for autumn’s comforting flavors. Apple Slab Pie, with its flaky crust and spiced apple filling, is the perfect dessert for gatherings and celebrations. This guide will walk you through creating an Apple Slab Pie that can easily serve a party of 10, making it a go-to recipe for your fall festivities.
Why Choose Apple Slab Pie for Your Party
Apple Slab Pie is essentially a larger, thinner version of the traditional apple pie. It’s baked in a sheet pan, making it ideal for serving a crowd. Its rectangular shape allows for easy slicing, ensuring each guest gets a perfect piece of this autumnal treat.
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- All-purpose flour: 3 cups
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup, cold and cubed
- Ice water: 6-8 tablespoons
- For the Filling:
- Apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): 6-8, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- Sugar: 3/4 cup
- Cinnamon: 1 tablespoon
- Nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon
- Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
- For the Topping:
- Egg (for egg wash)
- Raw sugar or granulated sugar
Preparation Steps
- Crust: Combine flour and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until the dough comes together. Chill for 1 hour.
- Filling: Toss apple slices with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
- Assembly: Roll out the dough on a floured surface and transfer to a sheet pan. Add the apple filling and cover with a second rolled-out dough. Seal the edges and cut slits for steam to escape. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar.
- Baking: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Serving and Storage
Serve your Apple Slab Pie warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and are just as delicious the next day.
Tips for the Perfect Apple Slab Pie
- Apple Selection: Use a mix of apple varieties for a balanced flavor.
- Thickness: Ensure the apples are thinly sliced so they cook evenly.
- Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding a touch of allspice or vanilla to the filling for extra warmth.
The Joy of Autumn Baking
Baking for a fall gathering is not just about the delicious outcome, but also the warm, cozy process of preparing something with love. This Apple Slab Pie is sure to bring smiles and a sense of togetherness to your autumn celebration.
Conclusion
Whether you’re hosting a family get-together, a friends’ gathering, or any autumn-themed party, the Apple Slab Pie is a perfect choice. Its delightful blend of seasonal flavors, combined with the joy of sharing, makes it more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of autumn’s bounty.
