As autumn paints the world in vibrant hues, there’s nothing like the heartwarming scent of a freshly baked Apple Slab Pie wafting through the kitchen. This delightful dessert is a nostalgic nod to the classic apple pie, but with a twist that makes it a breeze to prepare and serve at gatherings. Picture this: a buttery, flaky crust cradling tender, juicy apples dusted with a hint of cinnamon, all topped with a crumbly walnut topping that adds the perfect crunch. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday potluck, this dish is sure to steal the show. Best of all, it slices beautifully, making it ideal for those moments when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make recipe that’s destined to become a new autumn favorite!
Why is Apple Slab Pie a must-try?
Simplicity: This Apple Slab Pie is remarkably easy to make, allowing bakers of all levels to shine.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of tart apples and warm spices creates an irresistible aroma and taste that captures the essence of fall.
Perfect for Gatherings: Its large, shareable size makes it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks, ensuring everyone gets a generous slice.
Unique Twist: With a crunchy walnut topping boosting texture and flavor, this pie offers a delightful departure from traditional apple desserts.
Time-Saving: Quick to prepare and bake, this recipe saves you valuable time while still delivering a crowd-pleasing dessert.
This delightful dish pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence, so don’t forget to check out my tips on serving suggestions for the ultimate experience!
Apple Slab Pie Ingredients
For the Crust
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure for the crust; you can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Sugar – Adds sweetness to the crust; coconut sugar can be used for a less refined alternative.
- Salt – Enhances flavor in both the crust and filling; no substitutions necessary.
- Cold unsalted butter – Creates a flaky pie crust; use chilled margarine for a dairy-free option.
- Sour cream – Adds moisture and tenderness to the crust; plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a similar taste.
For the Filling
- Granny Smith apples (3 lbs) – The primary filling; tart and juicy, or switch to Honeycrisp apples for a sweeter flavor.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup) – Sweetens the apple filling; brown sugar can substitute for a richer taste.
- Light brown sugar (1/4 cup) – Adds depth to the filling’s flavor; dark brown sugar works for a stronger caramel taste.
- All-purpose flour (for filling, 1/4 cup) – Thickens the filling; no substitutions needed.
- Ground cinnamon (2 tsp) – Enhances the flavor profile; consider replacing with pumpkin pie spice for variety.
- Allspice (1/4 tsp) – Adds warmth and complexity to the filling; can be omitted if not available.
- Lemon juice (1 tsp) – Brightens and balances the sweetness of the apples; vinegar could work as a substitute.
For the Topping
- Chopped walnuts (1/2 cup) – Adds crunch and flavor; omit for a nut-free version.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup) – Sweetens the topping and provides a caramel-like flavor; coconut sugar is a refined sugar-free option.
- Cold unsalted butter (6 tbsp) – Creates a crumbly texture in the topping; dairy-free butter can be used instead.
Embrace the cozy flavors of fall with this delicious Apple Slab Pie recipe that guarantees satisfaction in every slice!
How to Make Apple Slab Pie
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Prepare the Crust: In a food processor, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold unsalted butter and pulse until you achieve coarse crumbs. Mix in sour cream until a clumping dough forms. Wrap it up and chill for 30 minutes.
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for baking.
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Make the Filling: In a large bowl, toss together the diced Granny Smith apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, ground cinnamon, allspice, and lemon juice. Stir until well combined, ensuring the apples are evenly coated.
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Prepare Topping: Using the food processor again, blend together the flour, chopped walnuts, brown sugar, and salt. Pulse in the cold butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
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Assemble: Roll out the chilled dough to fit a jelly roll pan. Transfer the rolled dough to the pan, pour in the apple filling, and sprinkle the walnut topping evenly across the surface.
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Bake: Bake for 50-55 minutes, until the topping is golden and the apples are tender. If it browns too quickly, cover with foil. Enjoy it warm, ideally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Optional: Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra sweet touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Slab Pie preparations are ideal for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can make the crust up to 24 hours in advance by preparing it, wrapping it tightly in plastic, and refrigerating. The apple filling can also be mixed and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; just sprinkle a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the chilled dough, fill it with the apple mixture, and top with walnuts. Simply bake as directed for a delicious dessert that feels freshly made, all while allowing you to enjoy precious moments with your loved ones!
How to Store and Freeze Apple Slab Pie
Room Temperature: Store the Apple Slab Pie covered with a clean kitchen towel for up to 1 day. This helps maintain its freshness and protects it from drying out.
Fridge: Wrap leftovers in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, preserving the delicious flavors and crunchy topping.
Freezer: To freeze, slice the pie and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy this delightful dish anytime!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, until warmed through and the topping re-crisps.
Apple Slab Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Apple Slab Pie! Here are delightful ways to customize this comforting classic.
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Nut Substitute: Swap in pecans or almonds for the walnut topping for a different nutty flavor. Each nut brings its unique texture and taste, enhancing your pie’s personality.
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Cinnamon Twist: Experiment with other spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a fragrant twist on the traditional cinnamon. Just a pinch can elevate your pie to unexpected heights!
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Sweetness Levels: Replace the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor in the filling. This variation also adds moisture and complexity.
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Apple Medley: Use a combination of apples, like Honeycrisp and Fuji, for a sweet and tart balance that dances on your palate. A blend adds a delightful depth to your filling.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute sour cream with almond or coconut yogurt for a dairy-free version of the crust while still keeping that tender texture. Your pie will still taste amazing!
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Extra Crunch: Toss some oats into the topping mixture for an added layer of crunch. The oats will soak up some of the juices, creating a structured yet delicious topping.
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Zesty Surprise: Add a tablespoon of orange zest to the apple filling for a refreshing, citrusy brightness. It’s a whimsical surprise that complements the apple flavor beautifully.
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Heat it Up: For a spicy kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the apple filling. This unexpected heat pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness of the apples.
What to Serve with Apple Slab Pie?
Dive into the cozy flavors of fall with a meal that complements the warmth of a sweet, apple-laden dessert.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coolness of vanilla effortlessly balances the warm, spiced apple filling, creating a heavenly contrast.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a luscious touch to each bite, enhancing the pie’s rich flavors.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel on top elevates the sweetness of the pie, adding an indulgent touch that’s simply irresistible.
- Coffee: A rich, dark roast coffee complements the sweetness of the pie, making each bite feel like a comforting embrace.
- Spiced Apple Cider: This warming beverage echoes the flavors of the pie, creating a delightful pairing that enhances the autumn experience.
- Roasted Nuts: A bowl of seasoned, roasted nuts brings a crunchy contrast that beautifully complements the pie’s texture.
- Chocolate Sauce: For a twist that sparks joy, serve with drizzles of chocolate sauce—a rich addition that’s sure to delight.
- Chai Tea: With fragrant spices, a cup of chai tea harmonizes with the warm flavors of the pie, adding a cozy touch to your dessert experience.
Expert Tips for Apple Slab Pie
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Chill the Dough: A well-chilled dough results in a fabulously flaky crust. Don’t skip the chilling step—it’s crucial for texture.
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Uniform Apples: Dice the apples into even pieces to ensure they bake at the same rate. This avoids crunchy bites in your tender filling.
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Watch the Topping: If your walnut topping starts browning too quickly, cover it with foil to protect against burning while allowing the apples to soften completely.
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Flavor Boost: For an extra kick, add a splash of vanilla extract to your apple filling. It enhances the flavor of the Apple Slab Pie beautifully.
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Slice After Cooling: Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps set the filling, resulting in neat, tidy slices.
Apple Slab Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of apples are best for Apple Slab Pie?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, Granny Smith apples are fantastic due to their tartness and firmness, which holds up well during baking. However, you can mix in sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a delightful balance. Aim for a combination that suits your taste!
How should I store leftover Apple Slab Pie?
Very! After enjoying your pie, wrap leftovers in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can stay in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply reheat in the microwave or oven for that fresh-baked taste.
Can I freeze Apple Slab Pie?
Absolutely! If you want to keep it for longer, you can easily freeze it. Start by slicing the pie, then wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm it in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
What can I do if my topping is browning too quickly while baking?
Very! If you notice that the walnut topping is getting too dark while baking, simply cover it loosely with aluminum foil. This will prevent it from burning while still allowing the apples to cook through. Remember, the goal is a golden-brown topping, not burnt!
Can I make this Apple Slab Pie nut-free?
Absolutely! You can skip the walnuts entirely for a nut-free version. You might also want to consider adding oats or a combination of flour and brown sugar as a crunchy alternative. The pie will still be delicious and satisfying without the nuts.
Are there any dietary substitutions I can make for this recipe?
Very! For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. If you’re looking to reduce added sugars, you can swap regular sugar for coconut sugar or use a sugar alternative like stevia. Remember to adjust to taste, but these options make it easier for those with dietary restrictions to enjoy this delightful Apple Slab Pie!
Irresistible Apple Slab Pie with Crunchy Walnut Topping
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a food processor, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold unsalted butter and pulse until you achieve coarse crumbs. Mix in sour cream until a clumping dough forms. Wrap it up and chill for 30 minutes.
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for baking.
- In a large bowl, toss together the diced Granny Smith apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, ground cinnamon, allspice, and lemon juice. Stir until well combined.
- Using the food processor again, blend together the flour, chopped walnuts, brown sugar, and salt. Pulse in the cold butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Roll out the chilled dough to fit a jelly roll pan. Transfer the rolled dough to the pan, pour in the apple filling, and sprinkle the walnut topping evenly across the surface.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, until the topping is golden and the apples are tender. If it browns too quickly, cover with foil. Enjoy it warm, ideally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!