Apple Slab Pie Extravaganza: A Grand Celebration of Fall Flavors

As the crisp autumn breeze fills the air, it’s time to indulge in the warmth and sweetness of a seasonal delight – the Apple Slab Pie. This grand dessert is a celebration of fall’s bounty, featuring layers of perfectly spiced apples encased in a flaky, buttery crust. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a comforting treat, this Apple Slab Pie is your ticket to a flavorful journey through the orchards of fall.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 cup ice water

For the Filling:

• 8 cups thinly sliced, peeled apples (a mix of sweet and tart varieties)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

For the Topping:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling)

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s dive into the delightful process of creating this Apple Slab Pie masterpiece.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pie Crust:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to work it into the flour until you have a coarse, crumbly mixture.
• Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough just comes together. Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape into rectangles, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

2. Preheat and Prep:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one portion of the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a baking sheet. Transfer and press the dough into the sheet, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides.

3. Create the Apple Filling:

• In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are evenly coated with the mixture.

4. Assemble the Pie:

• Spread the apple filling evenly over the rolled-out dough in the baking sheet.

5. Top it Off:

• Roll out the second portion of chilled dough and place it over the apple filling. Seal the edges by crimping with a fork or your fingers. Make a few small slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.

6. Egg Wash and Sugar Sprinkle:

• Brush the top crust with beaten egg and sprinkle sugar evenly for a golden and slightly crunchy finish.

7. Bake to Golden Perfection:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly.

8. Cool and Serve:

• Allow the Apple Slab Pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.

Cook Notes

• Choosing the Right Apples:
  • A mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, and Fuji creates a balanced and flavorful filling.
• Chill, Don’t Rush:
  • Allowing the pie crust to chill thoroughly ensures a flaky and tender result. Patience is the key to a perfect crust.
• Lemon Juice Trick:
  • The addition of lemon juice not only enhances the flavor but also prevents the apples from browning.

Variations

Nutty Crunch:

• Add a layer of chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) to the filling for a delightful crunch.

Caramel Drizzle:

• Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the baked pie for a decadent finish.

Cheddar Cheese Crust:

• Incorporate shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the pie crust for a savory twist that complements the sweet apple filling.

Keto Version

For those on a keto journey, adapt the Apple Slab Pie to align with your dietary preferences.

• Almond Flour Magic:
  • Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour in the crust to maintain a low-carb profile.
• Keto-Friendly Sweeteners:
  • Substitute granulated and brown sugar with keto-friendly sweeteners like erythritol or monk fruit.
• Low-Carb Nut Crust:
  • Create a crust using a mixture of almond flour and crushed nuts to enhance the nutty flavor.

Low Carb Version

For a low-carb twist on this classic, consider these adaptations:

• Cauliflower Magic:
  • Use a combination of almond flour and cauliflower in the crust for a lower-carb alternative.
• Reduced Sweetener Quantity:
  • Decrease the amount of sweetener in the filling to suit your low-carb preferences.
• Berries Addition:
  • Introduce a handful of berries like blueberries or raspberries to the filling for added sweetness without excessive carbs.

A Slice of Autumn Bliss

In conclusion, the Apple Slab Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of autumn bliss that captures the essence of fall in every bite. Whether you follow the classic recipe or venture into keto or low-carb adaptations, this pie is a testament to the versatility of seasonal ingredients and the joy of baking from scratch.

So, preheat your oven, gather your apples, and let the aroma of cinnamon and baked crust fill your kitchen. The Apple Slab Pie is a celebration of tradition, warmth, and the simple pleasures of savoring a homemade dessert. Indulge, share, and revel in the delight of this fall-inspired masterpiece. Happy baking!