Apple slab pie, baked with flaky puff pastry, is a showstopper dessert that's surprisingly simple to make. This recipe elevates the classic apple pie experience, offering a beautiful presentation and a delightful textural contrast between the crisp pastry and the warm, spiced apples. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress.
What is an Apple Slab Pie?
An apple slab pie is essentially a rectangular (or sometimes square) version of a traditional apple pie. Instead of a round pie crust, it uses a single sheet of puff pastry for the base and top, creating a rustic and elegant presentation. This format also makes it easier to cut and serve, perfect for parties or potlucks. The filling is the same delicious apple mixture you'd find in any classic apple pie, typically featuring a blend of sweet and tart apples, cinnamon, and other warm spices.
How to Make Apple Slab Pie with Puff Pastry: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet (14.1 ounces) frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 6-8 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground allspice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Coarse sugar (for sprinkling, optional)
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Prepare Apple Filling: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat.
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Assemble the Pie: Unfold the thawed puff pastry on the prepared baking sheet. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border. Dot the top with butter pieces.
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Top with Pastry: Fold the edges of the pastry over the apple filling. You can either fold them over completely or create a rustic, slightly open-top effect.
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Egg Wash & Sugar: Brush the top of the pastry with the beaten egg. Sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired.
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Bake: Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender. If the pastry starts to brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
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Cool & Serve: Let the pie cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Is it Easier to Make an Apple Slab Pie Than a Traditional Pie?
Yes, an apple slab pie is generally easier to make than a traditional round pie. The single sheet of puff pastry simplifies the crust-making process significantly, eliminating the need for rolling out two perfect circles and crimping the edges. The rectangular shape also makes it easier to handle and bake evenly.
What Kind of Apples are Best for Slab Pie?
A blend of tart and sweet apples is ideal for apple slab pie. Granny Smith apples provide tartness and a good texture, while Honeycrisp or Fuji apples add sweetness and juiciness. Experiment with different apple varieties to find your perfect combination!
Can I Use Different Pastry for an Apple Slab Pie?
While puff pastry creates a wonderfully flaky crust, you can experiment with other types of pastry, such as phyllo dough or even a simple homemade pie crust. However, keep in mind that the baking time and texture may vary.
How Do I Store Leftover Apple Slab Pie?
Store leftover apple slab pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
This recipe provides a delicious and visually appealing alternative to the classic apple pie. The ease of preparation and impressive results make it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
