Apple Slab Pie Recipe

I absolutely love sharing this Apple Slab Pie Recipe with friends because it’s one of those cozy, all-American desserts that feels like a big warm hug on a plate. When you first try making it, you’ll notice how the large, rustic shape is perfect for feeding a crowd or bringing to potlucks, and it really stands out from your typical round pies. The combination of a tender, buttery crust with a perfectly spiced apple filling is just irresistible.

What makes this Apple Slab Pie Recipe so special is how easy it is to pull off without any fancy equipment, plus you get so many generous slices for your effort. I discovered this trick when I wanted a pie that could serve my whole family without worrying about running out – and honestly, it quickly became a go-to recipe for holidays and gatherings. You’ll find that the flavors improve even more after it cools, making leftovers a delight you look forward to.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Apple Slab Pie Recipe, the ingredients pair beautifully to balance flaky, buttery crust with soft, spiced apple filling. I always recommend picking crisp, tart apples for the best texture and the perfect sweet-tart bite.

• All-purpose flour: Key to the crust’s structure and your thickening agent in the filling.
• Salt: Enhances the crust flavors and balances sweetness.
• Shortening: Creates that tender, flaky texture in the crust.
• Cold butter: Adds richness and buttery flavor–make sure it’s chilled!
• Vegetable oil: Helps keep the dough soft and pliable for rolling.
• Milk: Moistens the dough while adding a slight sweetness.
• Lemon juice: Stops the apples from browning and adds a hint of brightness.
• Apples: Use a mix, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for balanced sweetness and tartness.
• Sugar: Sweetens the filling and adds a caramelized touch to the crust.
• Ground cinnamon: Essential warm spice that pairs perfectly with apples.
• Ground nutmeg: Adds depth without overpowering.
• Egg: Used for egg wash to give the crust a beautiful golden shine.
• Water: Mixed with egg for brushing crust.

Variations

I love how versatile this Apple Slab Pie Recipe is — you can totally make it your own by swapping spices, adjusting sweetness, or adding texture with nuts. Feel free to experiment, because these tweaks can really transform the pie to suit your taste or special dietary needs.

• Spice It Up: I’ve tried adding ground ginger or cloves once, and it gave the filling a cozy extra kick that my guests adored.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap in a gluten-free flour blend for the crust, but watch the moisture carefully—it might need a little less milk.
• Nutty Crunch: Toasted walnuts or pecans sprinkled over the filling before adding the top crust add a beautiful texture that’s a family favorite.
• Less Sweet: If you like your pies less sweet, reduce the sugar by a quarter cup and let the natural fruit shine.

How to Make Apple Slab Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Flaky Crust

Start by mixing flour and salt in a large bowl, then cut in shortening and cold butter until you see small pea-sized bits. This little step is what gives the crust those flaky layers I love. Next, stir together the milk and lemon juice—you’ll notice the milk curdles slightly, which is perfect for tenderizing the dough. Add the milk mixture and vegetable oil to your dry ingredients and stir until it comes together into a soft dough. Don’t be shy about using your hands to bring it all together! Wrap the dough into two discs, refrigerate for about 30 minutes, and enjoy the calm before the delicious storm.

Step 2: Make Your Apple Filling

While that dough chills, peel and chop your apples into small pieces. I like chopping small—not too fine—so you get wonderful pockets of tender, slightly chunky fruit. Toss the apples with sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg, mixing until every piece is coated in that cinnamon-sugar goodness. This simple coating thickens the filling perfectly and lets those classic apple flavors shine.

Step 3: Roll Out and Assemble

Roll one disc of dough out on a floured surface until you have a rustic 13×18” rectangle about 1/8” thick. Don’t stress about perfect edges here — that rustic look is charm in pie form! Lay the dough into your 10×15” jelly roll pan and let the extra hang over the sides. Now sprinkle the crust with a mixture of sugar and flour—this crust dust keeps the bottom crust from getting soggy, an invaluable trick I learned over time. Spread your spiced apple filling evenly on top.

Roll out the second dough disc to the same size and lay it gently over the apples. Fold the edges of both crusts back together, tucking them into the pan for a sturdy edge. Pinch or crimp with your fingers or fork, whichever you prefer—both look lovely! Don’t forget to slice a few slits on top to vent that delicious steam while baking.

Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake

Brush the crust lightly with an egg wash made from a beaten egg and water, then sprinkle with sugar for a sparkle and crunch that you’ll love. Bake at 400°F for 30 minutes, then tent loosely with foil to prevent over-browning and bake another 20-25 minutes until the crust is golden and the filling bubbles up the slits. Let it cool for at least 2 hours before slicing—this step is crucial for the filling to set properly, and trust me, it’s worth the wait!

How to Serve Apple Slab Pie Recipe

Garnishes

I usually stick to simple garnishes for this pie because the flavors are so rich on their own— a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream is all you really need. Sometimes I sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar on top before serving for a pretty touch. Honestly, it’s those warm, melty accompaniments that make every bite feel extra special.

Side Dishes

Apple slab pie pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a warm chai latte. For a festive gathering, I like offering some sharp cheddar cheese slices alongside the pie—a classic combo that surprises people but works wonderfully. And if you’re aiming for a full cozy dessert spread, some roasted nuts or spiced cider are right there as winners in my book.

Creative Ways to Present

For holidays, I’ve occasionally topped the pie with decorative cutout leaves made from leftover crust dough—simple but so charming! If you want to get extra festive, drizzle some caramel sauce over each slice before serving. It turns this homestyle pie into a dessert plate that looks effortlessly elegant when guests arrive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually keep leftover apple slab pie right in the baking pan, covered tightly with plastic wrap. This method locks in moisture but keeps the crust from drying out. You’ll find it stays fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, though honestly, it rarely lasts that long in my house!

Freezing

If you want to freeze this pie, I recommend wrapping it tightly in foil and plastic wrap for protection. From personal experience, freezing before baking gives the best results—you can bake from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. It’s a handy trick for prepping ahead of busy holidays.

Reheating

Reheating apple slab pie is easy! I pop slices in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to warm through and crisp up the crust again. Avoid microwaving if you can—it tends to make the crust soggy. Trust me, a few extra minutes in the oven keeps it tasting just like fresh-baked.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Making this Apple Slab Pie Recipe always brings me back to family gatherings and cozy fall afternoons. It’s one of those recipes that feels like an heirloom—simple ingredients, honest effort, and a big return in smiles and satisfaction. If you’re looking for a pie that’s easy to share, generously sliced, and always delicious, I can’t recommend this one enough. Give it a go—you’ll have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe) in no time!

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