**Introduction:**
Apple slab pie is a large, rectangular pie that’s perfect for serving a crowd. With a flaky crust, spiced apple filling, and easy-to-slice squares, this pie captures the essence of a classic apple pie in a convenient, shareable format. The flavors of tart apples, cinnamon, and buttery crust make it an autumn favorite, ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or holiday tables.
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**Origin and Cultural Significance:**
Apple pies have a long-standing tradition in American culture, where they symbolize comfort, family, and the autumn harvest. The “slab pie” concept is a variation that likely originated from the need to create a large-format dessert for gatherings. This rectangular version of the classic apple pie is known for being easy to bake, transport, and serve, making it a staple at large events. Apple slab pie embodies the warmth of home baking and communal sharing, popular across the United States, especially during fall and Thanksgiving celebrations.
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**Ingredients and Quantities:**
#### Crust:
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1/2 cup ice water
#### Filling:
– 6-7 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced thin
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
#### Topping (optional):
– 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 tablespoon coarse sugar for sprinkling
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**Optional Additions:**
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves for extra warmth
– A handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch in the filling
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract for added depth
– A drizzle of caramel sauce on top for extra sweetness
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**Tips for Success:**
– **Keep the Butter Cold:** Cold butter is essential for a flaky crust, so chill it until just before you’re ready to make the dough.
– **Use a Variety of Apples:** Combining tart and sweet apples adds complexity to the filling and prevents it from being overly sweet.
– **Avoid Overmixing the Dough:** To achieve a tender crust, mix the dough until just combined. Overworking can result in a tough texture.
– **Allow for Rest Time:** Let the dough rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out, which helps with rolling and makes the crust flakier.
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**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Crust:**
– In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
– Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until pea-sized crumbs form.
– Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together.
– Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. **Prepare the Filling:**
– In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Mix well to coat the apples evenly.
3. **Assemble the Pie:**
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface into a rectangle, large enough to fit a 10×15-inch baking sheet.
– Transfer the dough to the baking sheet, pressing it into the edges.
– Spread the apple filling evenly over the crust.
4. **Top the Pie:**
– Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the apples.
– Trim the edges and crimp or press to seal.
– Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
– Brush with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
5. **Bake:**
– Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
– Let the pie cool slightly before slicing and serving.
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**Description:**
Apple slab pie is a large, rustic version of the classic apple pie, baked in a rectangular sheet and filled with a cinnamon-spiced apple mixture. The flaky, buttery crust is golden and crisp, while the filling is sweet and tangy with a touch of warmth from cinnamon and nutmeg. This pie is perfect for serving to a crowd, with each square capturing the cozy flavors of autumn.
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**Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Based on 16 Servings):**
– Calories: ~250
– Protein: 2g
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Sugars: 18g
– Fat: 12g
– Fiber: 2g
*Note: Nutritional values may vary based on exact ingredients and portion size.*
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**Conclusion and Recommendation:**
Apple slab pie is an ideal dessert for gatherings or special occasions, offering all the delicious flavors of apple pie in a format that’s easy to make and serve. With a tender, flaky crust and warm apple filling, it’s a recipe that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
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**Embracing Healthful Indulgence:**
For a healthier version, consider using whole-wheat flour for part of the crust to add fiber. You can also reduce the sugar slightly, or use a natural sweetener like honey. Replacing part of the butter in the filling with a drizzle of coconut oil or olive oil can make it a bit lighter without sacrificing taste. These tweaks can help make this comforting apple slab pie a more balanced treat.
This apple slab pie brings together the best of fall flavors, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy each slice as a heartwarming dessert that celebrates the essence of autumn!