Apple Slab Pie

There’s something undeniably comforting about a classic apple pie, but when you’re looking to serve a crowd, this Rustic Apple Slab Pie with Maple Glaze is the perfect solution. Baked in a rectangular pan, this pie offers the familiar flavors of tender, spiced apples encased in a flaky, buttery crust, all topped with a sweet maple glaze that adds an extra layer of autumnal warmth. Ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or holiday feasts, this slab pie ensures everyone gets a generous piece. The combination of tart apples and rich spices creates a harmonious blend of flavors, while the maple glaze provides a delightful sweetness that complements the fruit filling beautifully. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this dessert is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• ½ cup ice water

For the apple filling:

• 3 ½ to 4 pounds apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and chopped into ½-inch chunks (about 10 cups)
• Squeeze of lemon juice
• ⅔ to ¾ cup granulated sugar (adjust based on apple sweetness)
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
• ⅛ teaspoon salt

To finish:

• 2 tablespoons heavy cream or 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water
• Optional: Maple glaze (1 cup powdered sugar mixed with 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup and 1-2 tablespoons milk)

Directions:

1. Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, mixing just until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

2. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, toss the chopped apples with a squeeze of lemon juice. Add the sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Mix until the apples are evenly coated.

3. Assemble the pie: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough into a rectangle large enough to fit a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan, with some overhang. Transfer the dough to the pan, pressing it into the corners and up the sides. Pour the apple filling into the crust, spreading it evenly.

4. Roll out the second disc of dough into a rectangle large enough to cover the top of the pie. Place it over the apples. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal. Cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush the top with heavy cream or the egg wash.

5. Bake: Place the pie on the middle rack of the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If desired, drizzle the maple glaze over the pie while it’s still warm.

6. Cool and serve: Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack before cutting into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Kcal: Approximately 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 12

The Ultimate Rustic Apple Slab Pie with Maple Glaze

Apple pie is an all-time classic, a comforting dessert that evokes memories of family gatherings, cozy autumn afternoons, and the joy of homemade baking. But when you’re feeding a crowd or want a more convenient way to serve this beloved treat, an apple slab pie is the perfect alternative. This Rustic Apple Slab Pie with Maple Glaze delivers all the warm, spiced flavors of traditional apple pie but in an easy-to-slice, shareable format. The flaky crust, juicy apple filling, and rich maple glaze combine to create a dessert that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Why Choose a Slab Pie?

A slab pie is essentially a larger, rectangular version of a traditional round pie, baked in a sheet pan or jelly roll pan. Unlike a typical pie, which serves about eight slices, a slab pie can be cut into small squares or bars, making it ideal for large gatherings, holiday feasts, or potlucks. It is much easier to transport than a traditional pie and eliminates the hassle of uneven slices.

In addition to its practicality, a slab pie offers a higher crust-to-filling ratio, making it perfect for those who love the crisp, buttery texture of homemade pie crust. The crust stays flakier due to its thinner layer, and with the right amount of filling, every bite is balanced with apples, spice, and sweetness.

The Magic of Maple Glaze

While apple pie is undeniably delicious on its own, the maple glaze in this recipe adds an extra layer of indulgence. Maple syrup is a natural sweetener that complements the tartness of the apples while adding a caramel-like depth of flavor. The glaze is made simply with powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a splash of milk, creating a smooth drizzle that enhances the overall richness of the pie.

Maple syrup also ties the dessert to its autumnal roots. Apple season peaks in the fall, making this pie a perfect celebration of the harvest. The combination of cinnamon-spiced apples, flaky pastry, and sweet maple glaze makes it a must-have treat during the cooler months.

The Best Apples for a Slab Pie

Choosing the right apples is key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor. A mix of tart and sweet apples is ideal for this slab pie. Some of the best choices include:

• Granny Smith – Firm and tart, these apples hold their shape well during baking.
• Honeycrisp – Sweet and crisp, these apples add a natural sugary note.
• Fuji or Gala – Slightly softer apples that bring a mellow sweetness.
• Jonagold – A balance of tart and sweet, ideal for pies.

Using a combination of these apples ensures a pie filling that is flavorful, slightly tangy, and not overly mushy. Tossing the apples in sugar, cornstarch, and spices helps create the perfect consistency while keeping the filling from becoming too runny.

Tips for a Perfect Slab Pie

• Chill the Dough: The key to a flaky crust is keeping the butter cold. Chilling the dough before rolling it out ensures a tender, crisp texture.
• Use a Light Hand: Overworking the dough can lead to a tough crust. Mix the ingredients just until combined.
• Cut Steam Vents: Adding small slits to the top crust prevents the pie from trapping too much moisture, which could lead to a soggy filling.
• Brush with Egg Wash or Cream: This gives the crust a beautiful golden color and a slightly crisp finish.
• Allow to Cool Before Slicing: Letting the pie sit for at least 30 minutes helps the filling set, making it easier to cut clean squares.

Serving Suggestions

This Rustic Apple Slab Pie with Maple Glaze is versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comforting dessert.
• Pair with whipped cream for a light and airy contrast to the rich filling.
• Enjoy it cold with coffee for a breakfast treat that feels indulgent yet satisfying.
• Sprinkle a touch of sea salt on the glaze for a sweet-salty twist.

For a festive touch, garnish with candied pecans, a dusting of cinnamon, or fresh apple slices to enhance its presentation.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

There are many apple pie recipes out there, but this Rustic Apple Slab Pie with Maple Glaze stands out for several reasons:

1. Ease of Preparation – No need for a special pie dish, and the sheet pan method makes rolling out the dough more forgiving.
2. Ideal for Gatherings – Its rectangular shape makes it easy to slice into small or large portions, depending on the occasion.
3. Balanced Flavors – The mix of tart and sweet apples, warm spices, and buttery crust creates a well-rounded flavor.
4. Unique Glaze – The maple glaze adds a subtle sweetness that complements the apples without overpowering them.
5. Perfect for All Seasons – While it shines during fall, this pie is delicious year-round, especially when using seasonal apples.

Conclusion:

The Rustic Apple Slab Pie with Maple Glaze is a fantastic dessert that brings together the comfort of a classic apple pie with the convenience of a slab format. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, attending a potluck, or simply craving a homemade treat, this pie is an excellent choice. Its flaky crust, tender apple filling, and sweet maple drizzle make it an irresistible dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Try it once, and it just might become your new favorite way to enjoy apple pie!