Glazed Apple Slab Pie Recipe

Glazed Apple Slab Pie Recipe – The Ultimate Comfort Dessert

If there’s one dessert that instantly evokes warmth, nostalgia, and the sweet scent of autumn, it’s the Glazed Apple Slab Pie. Imagine a thick, buttery crust cradling tender, cinnamon-kissed apples, finished with a glossy, sweet glaze that shimmers under the kitchen light. This dessert isn’t just a pie—it’s a centerpiece, a conversation starter, and the perfect treat for any occasion, from holiday feasts to casual family gatherings.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this Glazed Apple Slab Pie recipe combines simplicity with a gourmet touch, offering a foolproof way to impress friends and family alike. Let’s dive in.

Why This Glazed Apple Slab Pie Is Irresistible

• Bold apple flavor: A blend of tart and sweet apples creates depth and balance in every bite.
• Buttery, flaky crust: Homemade or store-bought, this pie crust elevates the dish with its tender, golden layers.
• Perfect sweetness: The sugar-cinnamon mixture enhances natural apple flavors without overpowering them.
• Lustrous glaze: A simple sugar glaze gives the pie a professional, bakery-quality shine and a slight crunch on top.
• Rustic charm: Its large, slab-style presentation makes it ideal for sharing and adds a homemade aesthetic that everyone loves.

Ingredients & Their Roles

For the Pie Crust

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – The base of your crust, providing structure.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed – Creates flakiness; cold butter ensures a tender, layered crust.
• 6–8 tablespoons ice water – Binds the dough without melting the butter, keeping it flaky.

For the Apple Filling

• 6–8 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix) – The star ingredient; Granny Smith adds tartness, Honeycrisp adds sweetness.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the filling and helps caramelize the apples.
• ¼ cup brown sugar – Adds depth and a rich, molasses-like flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Infuses warm, comforting spice.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg – Adds subtle complexity.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Prevents apples from browning and balances sweetness.
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Thickens the filling for a perfect, sliceable consistency.

For the Glaze

• 1 egg, beaten – Gives the crust a golden color and helps the glaze stick.
• 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream – Adds shine and a soft sheen.
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar – Sprinkled on top for a sparkling finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
4. Divide the dough in half, shape into disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Pro Tip: Keep the butter cold; this ensures the crust is flaky and not dense.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. Peel, core, and slice the apples into ½-inch thick slices.
2. In a large bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
3. Toss the apple slices gently until evenly coated.

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, macerate the apples with sugar for 15 minutes before baking. This draws out juices, creating a more flavorful filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Slab Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out one dough disk into a large rectangle or square to fit your 9x13-inch baking dish. Transfer it into the pan and trim the edges.
3. Spread the apple filling evenly over the crust.
4. Roll out the second dough disk and place it over the apples. Seal the edges with a fork or by pinching the dough together.
5. Cut a few slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Pro Tip: Brush the top with beaten egg and milk for a glossy, golden finish. Sprinkle sugar generously for added crunch.

Step 4: Bake the Pie

1. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
2. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
3. Remove from the oven and let it cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Pro Tip: Tent the edges with foil if they brown too quickly. This ensures an evenly baked crust.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

• Slice into generous squares and serve warm.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent treat.
• Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat gently to enjoy the gooey filling.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

• Simple yet impressive: With pantry staples and minimal effort, you achieve a bakery-quality dessert.
• Versatile: Perfect for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving, or casual weekend treats.
• Customizable: Swap apple varieties, add chopped nuts, or drizzle caramel for extra indulgence.
• Family-friendly: The slab format makes it easy to serve large groups.

Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Glazed Apple Slab Pie

• Use a mix of apples: Combining tart and sweet varieties ensures a balanced filling that isn’t too sour or overly sweet.
• Don’t overmix the filling: Toss apples gently to avoid breaking them and creating a mushy texture.
• Chill your dough: Cold dough = flakier crust. Don’t skip this step.
• Glaze strategically: Apply the egg wash right before baking for a professional shine.
• Slice after cooling: This ensures neat, intact pieces that hold together.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with vanilla ice cream for a classic American dessert experience.
• Drizzle with caramel or butterscotch sauce for added sweetness.
• Serve alongside a cup of spiced cider or coffee for a cozy, fall-inspired treat.
• Cut into small squares for a party platter, perfect for gatherings.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Dessert

The Glazed Apple Slab Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. Its buttery, flaky crust, tender, cinnamon-spiced apple filling, and shiny, sugar-kissed glaze make it a timeless treat that’s as comforting as it is beautiful. The slab presentation makes it easy to serve, and the flavors are universally adored.

Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a family dinner, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe delivers simplicity, elegance, and unbeatable flavor in one package. From the first fragrant slice to the last decadent bite, this pie promises smiles, nostalgia, and a little touch of homemade magic.

If you want a dessert that’s easy to make, visually stunning, and irresistibly delicious, look no further than this Glazed Apple Slab Pie. Embrace the season, gather your loved ones, and create memories with every bite.