Introduction
Glazed Apple Slab Pie is a delightful twist on the traditional apple pie, offering a larger, more shareable format with a sweet, glossy finish. This dessert combines the comforting flavors of spiced apples with a buttery, flaky crust and a glossy glaze that enhances its sweetness and visual appeal.
Perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or any special occasion, this pie is a showstopper that will leave everyone asking for more.
Origin and Cultural Significance
The concept of “slab pie” comes from the tradition of making pies in large, rectangular pans rather than the typical round pie dish. It’s often seen as a more convenient and accessible way to serve pie to a crowd.
Apple pie, on the other hand, is a classic American dessert, with roots dating back to the early colonial period, influenced by European baking traditions.
Apple pie has become a symbol of Americana, often associated with warmth, home-cooked meals, and celebrations.
The glaze on this pie adds a modern flair, giving it an extra layer of sweetness and sophistication.
Ingredients and Quantities
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 6–8 tablespoons ice-cold water
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 cups apples (about 5 medium-sized apples), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thicker filling)
- Pinch of salt
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)
Optional Additions:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup for added flavor
- A pinch of ground ginger or cardamom for extra warmth in the filling
- A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for serving
Tips for Success:
- Use cold butter and ice water when making the crust for a flakier texture.
- Be sure to slice the apples evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- If you prefer a slightly tangier pie, use a mix of tart apples (like Granny Smith) and sweet apples (like Fuji or Gala).
- Let the pie cool before glazing it so the glaze doesn’t melt into the filling.
- Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out for easier handling and a firmer crust.
- To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the apple mixture to help thicken the juices.
Instructions:
- Make the Pie Crust:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Slowly add ice-cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing just until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Apple Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and cornstarch. Toss to coat the apples evenly with the mixture.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle that fits your baking sheet (roughly 9×13 inches).
- Place the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, and spoon the apple filling evenly over the crust, leaving a border around the edges.
- Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the apples, crimping the edges to seal the pie. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Bake:
- Bake the pie for 45–50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the edges of the crust brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- While the pie is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth.
- Finish the Pie:
- Once the pie has cooled for about 10 minutes, drizzle the glaze over the top in a thin, even layer. Let the glaze set for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Description:
Glazed Apple Slab Pie offers the comforting flavors of apple pie, but in a larger, more shareable form, with a beautifully golden crust and a sweet, creamy glaze.
The apple filling is spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of lemon, creating a rich and aromatic experience.
The glaze adds a glossy finish, elevating the pie with an extra touch of sweetness and sophistication.
The flaky crust provides a perfect balance to the juicy, spiced apples, making every bite a delightful treat.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 300-350 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 150mg
Nutritional values are estimates and will vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Conclusion and Recommendation:
Glazed Apple Slab Pie is an irresistible dessert that marries the classic flavors of apple pie with a modern, visually appealing twist.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or a casual family dinner, this pie is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Its perfect balance of sweet, tart, and spiced flavors makes it a universal favorite, while the glaze adds an indulgent touch that’s hard to resist.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence:
While this pie is a delicious indulgence, there are ways to make it slightly more health-conscious without compromising on taste.
Consider reducing the sugar in the filling or opting for a whole-wheat pie crust for added fiber.
You could also experiment with using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit if you’re watching your sugar intake. Adding nuts to the filling not only provides extra crunch but also healthy fats, making this dessert a more balanced treat.
Enjoy your glazed apple slab pie as an occasional indulgence, savoring each bite while embracing the joy of home-baked goodness!