What Is an Apple Slab Pie?
An apple slab pie is a large, rectangular apple pie baked in a jelly roll pan or rimmed baking sheet. Instead of a round pie, the filling is spread evenly over a crust and topped with another layer of pastry. Once baked and cooled, a glaze is drizzled over the top, adding sweetness and a bakery-style finish.
This format allows:
- Even apple-to-crust ratio in every bite
- Easier slicing and serving
- Enough portions for a large group
Why You’ll Love Glazed Apple Slab Pie
This recipe stands out because it is:
- Perfect for parties and holidays
- Easier than making multiple pies
- Beautiful and bakery-worthy
- Loaded with tender spiced apples
- Finished with a simple, irresistible glaze
The glaze takes it from comforting to special, making it ideal for Thanksgiving, family gatherings, or bake sales.
Ingredients for Glazed Apple Slab Pie
Gather your ingredients before starting for a smooth baking experience.
For the Crust
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups cold unsalted butter, cubed
- ¾ cup ice-cold water (more if needed)
For the Apple Filling
- 8–10 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon allspice (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Egg Wash
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon milk or water
For the Glaze
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk or cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Choosing the Best Apples
A mix of apples gives the best flavor and texture. Granny Smith apples add tartness and hold their shape, while Honeycrisp or Braeburn add natural sweetness. Avoid overly soft apples like Red Delicious, which can become mushy when baked.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add ice-cold water, mixing just until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two portions, one slightly larger than the other. Shape into rectangles, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Place them in a large bowl and toss with lemon juice.
Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, vanilla, and mix until the apples are evenly coated. Set aside.
Step 3: Roll Out the Bottom Crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a rimmed baking sheet (approximately 10×15 or 10×17 inches).
Roll out the larger piece of dough on a floured surface into a rectangle large enough to fit the pan with slight overhang. Press gently into the corners.
Step 4: Add the Apple Filling
Spread the apple filling evenly over the bottom crust, pressing lightly to compact the apples.
Step 5: Roll and Add the Top Crust
Roll out the second piece of dough and place it over the apples. Trim excess dough and crimp the edges to seal. Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Step 6: Egg Wash
Whisk together the egg and milk. Brush the top crust lightly with egg wash for a golden finish.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the crust browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil.
Making the Glaze
While the pie cools, prepare the glaze.
In a bowl, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Adjust consistency by adding more milk or sugar as needed.
Once the pie has cooled for at least 20–30 minutes, drizzle the glaze generously over the top.
Tips for the Best Apple Slab Pie
- Slice apples evenly for consistent texture
- Chill the dough well for flakier crust
- Let the pie cool before glazing to avoid melting
- Use parchment paper for easier removal and slicing
Delicious Variations
Caramel Apple Slab Pie
Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples before adding the top crust.
Maple Glaze Apple Slab Pie
Replace vanilla glaze with powdered sugar and maple syrup for a fall twist.
Apple Cranberry Slab Pie
Add 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries for tart contrast.
Streusel-Topped Apple Slab Pie
Skip the top crust and add a buttery crumb topping instead.
Serving Suggestions
Glazed Apple Slab Pie is best served:
- Slightly warm or at room temperature
- With vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
- With coffee, tea, or hot cider
Cut into squares for easy serving at parties.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Storage
Store covered at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Make-Ahead
Bake the pie a day in advance and glaze just before serving for the freshest look.
Freezing
Freeze unglazed slab pie for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and glaze before serving.
Why This Recipe Always Works
Glazed Apple Slab Pie delivers the comforting flavor of homemade apple pie with the convenience of a sheet-pan dessert. The glaze adds a bakery-style finish that makes it look special without extra effort.
It’s reliable, adaptable, and perfect for feeding a crowd—everything a great dessert should be.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dessert that’s classic, beautiful, and made to share, Glazed Apple Slab Pie is the answer. With its flaky crust, warmly spiced apples, and sweet vanilla glaze, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again—especially during fall and holiday seasons 🍎🥧