Apple Slab Pie

Few desserts feel as warm and welcoming as a homemade Apple Slab Pie. This classic American dessert is large, rustic, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Baked in a sheet pan instead of a traditional pie dish, it offers plenty of slices—making it ideal for gatherings, potlucks, holidays, or simply a cozy weekend treat.

What makes apple slab pie so special is its comforting simplicity. Sweet apples are tossed with cinnamon, sugar, and a touch of vanilla, then baked between layers of buttery, flaky crust. As the pie bakes, the kitchen fills with the familiar aroma of apples and warm spices, creating that nostalgic feeling that so many people associate with home baking.

Unlike delicate desserts that require complicated techniques, this recipe is wonderfully straightforward. The crust is tender and crisp, while the filling becomes soft, sweet, and slightly syrupy as it cooks. The larger pan allows the apples to spread evenly, ensuring every slice has the perfect balance of fruit and crust.

Apple slab pie is also incredibly versatile. It’s impressive enough to serve to guests yet easy enough to bake for everyday enjoyment. Whether you’re preparing dessert for a family dinner, celebrating a holiday, or bringing something special to a gathering, this pie never fails to please.

Ingredients

Crust

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

  ADVERTISEMENT

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

• 6–8 tablespoons ice water

Filling

• 6 cups apples (about 6 medium), peeled and sliced

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

  ADVERTISEMENT

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  ADVERTISEMENT

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold cubed butter and cut it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or fork until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough begins to come together.

Divide the dough into two disks, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.

2. Make the Apple Filling

In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated with the sweet, spiced mixture.

3. Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Roll out one dough disk into a large rectangle that fits a 9×13-inch baking pan. Press the dough gently into the pan, allowing a small overhang around the edges.

Spread the apple filling evenly over the crust. Roll out the second dough disk and place it over the apples. Seal the edges by crimping them together and cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

4. Bake the Pie

Brush the top crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling.

Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing.

Conclusion

Apple Slab Pie is the kind of dessert that brings people together. With its buttery crust, tender apples, and warm cinnamon flavor, every bite feels comforting and homemade.

Bake this pie for your next gathering or weekend treat, and watch how quickly it disappears from the pan. Once you share a slice of this classic dessert, it’s sure to become a favorite recipe you’ll return to again and again.