Introduction to Apple Slab Pie
If you’re looking for a simple yet delightful dessert to impress friends or colleagues, apple slab pie should be your go-to choice. This dessert not only brings the classic comfort of apple pie but offers it in a larger, more shareable format—making it perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or even a cozy night in.
Why Apple Slab Pie is the Perfect Dessert for Young Professionals
As a young professional, you might be juggling work, social outings, and your own downtime. The beauty of apple slab pie lies in its ease of preparation and the ability to make a large batch that serves many. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes of prep and let the oven do the rest while you tackle that to-do list or unwind after a busy week.
Imagine walking into a friend's gathering with a homemade pie. Not only does it show you care, but it's an excellent conversation starter. Plus, did you know that sharing food can help foster relationships? According to a study from the University of California, shared meals can strengthen social bonds, making your apple slab pie not just a treat but a tool for connection.
So gather your ingredients because this apple slab pie is about to become your new favorite recipe!
Ingredients for Apple Slab Pie
Essential ingredients for the crust
Creating the perfect base for your apple slab pie starts with a handful of essential ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: This forms the backbone of your crust, providing structure.
- ½ cup butter: For a rich and flaky texture, cold butter is key.
- 2 egg yolks, beaten: These will bind your dough together and add richness.
- 4 tablespoons water: A little cold water helps to bring the dough together for a perfect consistency.
- 1 ½ tablespoons white sugar: Just enough to add a hint of sweetness to the crust.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder and ¼ teaspoon salt: For a bit of lift and flavor balance.
Key ingredients for the apple filling
The filling is where the magic happens! For that classic apple taste, gather these ingredients:
- 8 apples: Peel, core, and slice them into thin wedges. A mix of varieties like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith will enhance flavor.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: This prevents browning and adds a touch of tartness to balance the sweetness.
- 1 ¾ cups white sugar, 2 tablespoons flour, and ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: These ingredients will marry beautifully with the apples, creating a luscious filling that’s both sweet and spiced.
Topping ingredients for that perfect crunch
No apple slab pie is complete without that delightful crunchy topping. Combine these for a satisfying finish:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: This will add structure to your topping.
- ⅔ cup brown sugar & ⅔ cup butter: These will create a sweet, buttery crumble when mixed.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Toss this in for that warm, comforting flavor.
With these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to making a crowd-pleasing apple slab pie. For more tips on apple varieties, check out The Apple Association. Happy baking!
Preparing Apple Slab Pie
Creating a delicious apple slab pie is not only a rewarding experience but also a chance to bring joy to gatherings. This sweet, crispy treat is perfect for serving a crowd, making it a great choice for school or church events. Let’s dive into how to create this delightful dessert step by step!
Prepping the crust
The foundation of any great pie is its crust. Begin by mixing 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ tablespoons of sugar, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a large bowl. The buttery goodness is essential, so cut in ½ cup of cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This is where the magic happens! Next, combine 2 egg yolks with 4 tablespoons of cold water, then mix this wet mixture into your dough. Once combined, roll out the dough so it fits snugly in a 10x15-inch pan. You’ll want the edges to be slightly higher to hold all that delicious filling and topping.
Making the apple filling
Now onto the star of the show: the apple filling! Grab about 8 medium-sized apples (a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works beautifully) and slice them into thin wedges. Toss the apple slices in a large bowl with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to keep them from browning and to add a zesty kick. Then, sprinkle 1 ¾ cups of white sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon over the apples. This will create a sweet filling that is bursting with flavor. Pour this yummy mixture into your prepared pie crust and dot it with 2 tablespoons of butter for an extra richness.
Combining the topping mixture
For the crispy topping, take another bowl and combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, ⅔ cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Cut in ⅔ cup of butter until the mixture appears crumbly. This topping is like a sweet blanket for our apple pie, giving it that satisfying crunch. Once combined, sprinkle this mixture generously over the apple filling.
Assembling the pie
With your crust, filling, and topping ready, it’s time to assemble your apple slab pie. Ensure the filling is evenly spread before showering it with the crumbly topping. This layering will ensure every bite is filled with plump apples and sweet crumbs.
Baking to perfection
Pop your assembled pie into a preheated oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Bake it for about an hour or until the topping turns a gorgeous golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting dessert!
Once baked, allow your apple slab pie to cool for a bit before slicing into squares. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat!
Feel free to read more about the perfect apple varieties for baking here and get more pie inspiration from food network as you wow your friends and family with your baking skills. Happy baking!
Variations on Apple Slab Pie
Caramel Apple Slab Pie
For a delightful twist, consider making a caramel apple slab pie. By drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the apple filling before adding the crumb topping, you infuse every slice with a rich, gooey sweetness. You can also mix chopped caramel candies into the apple mixture for even more caramel goodness. This version is sure to impress at any gathering!
Walnut or Pecan Topping Version
Want to add some crunch? Try a walnut or pecan topping for your apple slab pie. Mix chopped nuts into the crumbly topping for an extra layer of texture and flavor. The nutty crunch pairs beautifully with the sweet cinnamon apples, creating a perfect balance. Plus, nuts are packed with good fats and proteins, making this variation as nutritious as it is delicious!
For more delicious variations and tips, check out Bon Appétit’s guide to pie toppings here and discover creative ways to elevate your baking!
Cooking Tips for Apple Slab Pie
Tips for selecting the best apples
When it comes to your apple slab pie, the apples you choose can make all the difference. Opt for a mix of tart and sweet varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji. This combination balances flavors and ensures a depth that only a well-selected mix can provide. Make sure the apples are firm and free of bruises—fresh apples will hold their shape and provide the perfect texture.
How to avoid a soggy crust
A soggy crust can be a real buzzkill for any pie lover! To prevent this in your apple slab pie, start by pre-baking the crust: this helps set it before adding the filling. You can also sprinkle a little flour or cornstarch on the bottom of the crust before pouring in the apple mixture. This forms a barrier, keeping moisture at bay. For a golden-brown finish, don’t forget to monitor baking time closely; it can be the difference between a perfect crust and a soggy disappointment!
Serving Suggestions for Apple Slab Pie
Best Pairings: Ice Cream and Whipped Cream
There's something truly delightful about enjoying apple slab pie with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of light, airy whipped cream. The warm pie contrasts perfectly with the cold ice cream, creating a heavenly experience with every bite. Consider using flavors like caramel or cinnamon ice cream to enhance the apple notes. If you’re feeling adventurous, a touch of spiced whipped cream can elevate the dish even further.
Serving Sizes and Presentation Ideas
This recipe yields about 15 generous slices, making it perfect for gatherings or picnics. For a polished presentation, serve the pie in its pan and cut out slices directly from it, or transfer pieces onto individual plates. Garnishing with a sprinkle of cinnamon or fresh mint adds a nice pop of color and freshness. You might also consider drizzling caramel sauce over the top for a sweet finishing touch. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive potluck, your apple slab pie will be the star of the dessert table!
For more serving ideas, check out Food Network's delicious pairing suggestions.
Time Breakdown for Apple Slab Pie
Preparation Time
Get ready to whip up your delicious apple slab pie in just 30 minutes! Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and start slicing those apples. It's a fun way to spend your time, especially if you're jamming out to your favorite playlist in the kitchen.
Cooking Time
Once you've prepped, let your pie bake for about 1 hour. This is when your kitchen will start filling with that irresistible aroma of cinnamon and baked apples. Trust me; it’ll be hard to resist sneaking a taste before it’s even done!
Total Time
All in all, you’ll need about 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weekend dessert or a gathering. Just imagine serving this beautiful pie to your friends and family—it’ll be a hit!
Nutritional Facts for Apple Slab Pie
Calories per serving
Each slice of apple slab pie contains approximately 405 calories. This makes it a delicious yet indulgent dessert that can be shared among friends and family alike.
Sugar content and dietary fiber
With about 42 grams of total sugars, this pie offers a sweet treat that can satisfy your sugar cravings. It also provides 3 grams of dietary fiber, which can help with digestion and promote satiety. For more tips on balancing sugar intake in desserts, consider checking out resources from the American Heart Association.
Whether you’re sharing this delightful dessert at a potluck or enjoying a slice at home, knowing its nutritional profile can help you make informed choices!
FAQs about Apple Slab Pie
How do I store leftover apple slab pie?
If you find yourself blessed with leftovers (which is quite possible!), you can store your apple slab pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate it, and it'll be good for about a week. Just make sure to cover it well to maintain that delicious freshness!
Can I use frozen apples for the pie?
Absolutely! Using frozen apples can save you time and still yield a scrumptious apple slab pie. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid to avoid a soggy crust. If you want to learn more about using frozen fruits in baking, check out this helpful guide from the USDA.
What is the best way to reheat apple slab pie?
To bring your pie back to its warm and comforting state, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the pie with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps retain the flaky crust and prevents it from getting too soggy compared to microwaving. How do you enjoy your leftover pie—cold, warm, or with a scoop of ice cream?
Conclusion on Apple Slab Pie
In conclusion, this delightful apple slab pie is more than just a dessert; it's a crowd-pleaser perfect for gatherings! The sweet, crispy cinnamon-sugar topping elevates the classic flavor, making every bite irresistible. Next time you're tasked with dessert, this recipe will surely shine. Enjoy your baking!
Apple Slab Pie
Equipment
- 10x15-inch baking pan
Ingredients
Dough
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 tablespoons white sugar
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 cup butter cut into pieces
- 2 egg yolks beaten
- 4 tablespoons water
Filling
- 8 apples peeled, cored and cut into thin wedges
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1.75 cups white sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons butter for dotting
Topping
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.67 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.67 cup butter cut into pieces
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Combine 1 ½ cups flour, 1 ½ tablespoons sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Cut in ½ cup butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Mix egg yolk and water together until blended; add to flour and mix to form a dough. Roll out dough to fit the bottom of a 10x15-inch pan.
- Combine apples and lemon juice in a large bowl; add 1 ¾ cups white sugar, 2 tablespoons flour, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Pour filling into pie crust and dot with 2 tablespoons butter.
- Combine 1 cup flour, ⅔ cup brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a medium bowl; cut in ⅔ cup butter until crumbly, then sprinkle over apples.
- Bake in the preheated oven until topping is golden brown, about 1 hour.
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