Apple Pie Slab Bars

When it comes to creating a dessert that captures the heart of fall, Apple Pie Slab Bars are a true masterpiece. Imagine taking the classic apple pie and transforming it into a party-ready dish that’s perfect for any gathering. These bars are baked on a large baking sheet and cut into delightful squares, making them ideal for sharing with friends and family during the holiday season. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a holiday party, or a cozy get-together, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor. The crust is buttery and flaky, while the apple filling is perfectly spiced and sweet. It’s a great way to serve apple pie to a crowd without the fuss of making multiple pies. Plus, there’s something uniquely satisfying about holding a square piece of pie in your hands. It’s a perfect blend of tradition and convenience.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowls
• Pastry blender or two knives
• Rolling pin
• 10×15×1-inch baking sheet or jelly roll pan
• Plastic wrap
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 3 ¾ cups (470 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tbsp sugar
• 1 ½ tsp table salt
• 3 sticks (12 oz or 340 grams) unsalted butter, cubed and kept very cold
• ¾ cup very cold water

For the Apple Filling:

• 3 ½ to 4 pounds apples, peeled, cored, and chopped into approximately ½-inch chunks (about 10 cups)
• Squeeze of lemon juice
• ⅔ to ¾ cup sugar (depending on how sweet you like your pie and how sweet your apples are)
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 rounded tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground allspice
• ⅛ tsp table salt

To Finish:

• 2 tbsp heavy cream or 1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water

Instructions

1. To make the crust: Measure the flour into a large, wide bowl. Whisk in the sugar and salt. Toss in the butter cubes and coat them all with the flour. Using your fingers, mash the butter into smaller pieces, just bigger than peas. Stir in ½ cup of water with a rubber spatula until the dough starts to come together. Add more water if needed, 1 tablespoon at a time. Divide the dough into two pieces, one slightly larger. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
2. To make the filling: In a large bowl, toss the apple chunks with lemon juice. Mix sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt in a medium bowl. Sprinkle over the apples and toss them well to coat; set aside.
3. To assemble the slab pie: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line the bottom of a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the larger piece of dough on a floured surface into an 18×13-inch rectangle. Transfer to the pan, draping the edges. Roll out the second piece of dough into a 16×11-inch rectangle.
4. Pour the apples over the dough in the pan, then cover with the second dough sheet. Trim and seal the edges. Brush the top with heavy cream or egg wash. Slice slits in the top to allow steam to escape. Place on a larger baking sheet to catch any spillage.
5. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling bubbles. Cool on a wire rack for at least 45 minutes before cutting and serving.

Tips for Success

Ensure your butter and water are very cold for a flaky crust. When rolling out the dough, use plenty of flour to prevent sticking. If you don’t have a baking sheet large enough, you can use a slightly smaller one and trim excess dough.

Additional Tips or Variations

For a twist, try adding raisins or chopped nuts to the apple filling. You can also experiment with different spices, like cardamom or ginger, for a unique flavor. If you prefer a less sweet pie, reduce the sugar in the filling.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: Approximately 350 | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 20g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a store-bought crust? Yes, using a pre-made crust can save time, although making it from scratch gives a better texture and taste.

What type of apples work best? A mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp is ideal for a balanced flavor.

How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

These Apple Pie Slab Bars are a delightful way to enjoy a classic dessert with a twist. Perfect for any occasion, they are sure to impress your guests. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out. We’d love to hear your thoughts and see your creations!