Apple slab pie, a rustic and elegant twist on the classic apple pie, offers a delightful combination of juicy apples and flaky puff pastry. This recipe simplifies the traditional pie-making process, resulting in a stunning and delicious dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Forget the fiddly lattice top; this recipe embraces a simpler, yet equally impressive, approach. Let's dive into creating this delicious treat!
What is an Apple Slab Pie?
An apple slab pie is essentially a rectangular apple pie, typically baked in a shallow baking dish. This format allows for easier portioning and a beautiful, rustic presentation. The use of puff pastry elevates the experience, providing a wonderfully crisp and buttery crust that complements the sweet and tart apples. It's a crowd-pleaser that's surprisingly simple to make.
How to Make an Apple Slab Pie with Puff Pastry: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe uses readily available puff pastry, saving you the time and effort of making your own pastry from scratch. Focus on the delicious filling and enjoy the ease of this baking process.
Ingredients:
- 1 box (14.1 ounces) refrigerated puff pastry, thawed
- 6-8 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
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Prepare the apple filling: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and lemon juice. Gently toss to coat the apples evenly.
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Assemble the pie: Unfold one sheet of puff pastry and carefully place it into the prepared baking pan, gently pressing it into the corners and edges.
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Add the filling: Spread the apple mixture evenly over the puff pastry. Dot the top with small pieces of butter and sprinkle with pecans or walnuts (optional).
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Top with pastry: Unfold the second sheet of puff pastry and place it over the apple filling. You can leave it whole, or for a rustic look, gently score the top with a knife.
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Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender. If the pastry starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover the edges with aluminum foil.
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Cool: Let the pie cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream!
What Kind of Apples Are Best for Apple Slab Pie?
A mix of apples is generally recommended for the best flavor and texture. Granny Smith apples provide tartness, while Honeycrisp apples offer sweetness and juiciness. Consider using a combination to balance the flavors. Braeburn, Fuji, and Gala apples also make excellent additions.
How Do I Store Leftover Apple Slab Pie?
Store leftover apple slab pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I Freeze Apple Slab Pie?
Yes, you can freeze apple slab pie. Once completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What Other Fruits Can I Use in a Slab Pie?
While apples are classic, you can certainly experiment with other fruits! Pears, berries, peaches, and cherries all work well in a slab pie. Adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the fruit.
This detailed guide helps you create a stunning and delicious apple slab pie with puff pastry. Enjoy the simple process and the rewarding results! Remember to adjust sweetness and spices to your preference. Happy baking!
