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Looking for a delicious party treat that offers the comfort of a classic dessert with a healthy twist? This Apple Slab Pie is your answer. Baked on a flat pan and cut into squares, it’s perfect for large gatherings and easy to serve. With a few adjustments, this recipe can fit into a healthy lifestyle, offering a balance of indulgence and nutrition. The apples provide a great source of fiber and essential vitamins, making this dessert as nutritious as it is tasty.
Ingredients for a Healthier Crust and Filling
For the Crust:
470 grams (3 ¾ cups) of all-purpose flour – Opt for whole-wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
1.5 tablespoons of sugar – You can use a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit to reduce the sugar content.
½ teaspoon of table salt – Enhances flavor without adding too much sodium.
3 sticks (12 ounces) of unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces – Consider using a plant-based butter or light butter to reduce saturated fat.
¾ cup of very cold water – Helps bring the dough together while keeping it light.
For the Apple Filling:
3 ½ to 4 pounds of apples (about 10 cups), cored, peeled, and cut into ½-inch pieces – Apples are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making this a heart-healthy dessert.
Juice of 1 lemon – Adds a zesty flavor while providing additional vitamin C.
2/3 to ¾ cup of sugar – Use a sugar substitute to keep the recipe low in calories and manage blood sugar levels.
3 tablespoons of cornstarch – Helps to thicken the filling without adding extra calories.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – A spice that’s great for boosting metabolism and balancing blood sugar levels.
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg – Provides depth of flavor and contains antioxidants.
¼ teaspoon ground cloves – Adds a rich, aromatic flavor that complements the apples.
1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water or 2 tablespoons of heavy cream – Use plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.
Instructions: A Health-Conscious Apple Slab Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
Incorporate the Butter: Add the cold butter pieces and use your hands or a pastry cutter to blend the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Add Cold Water: Gradually add the cold water until the dough comes together. Avoid overworking the dough to keep it tender.
Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two portions, with one slightly larger than the other. Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
Toss the Apples: In a large bowl, toss the apple pieces with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Mix the Spices and Sugar: In a separate bowl, mix the sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and a pinch of pepper. Sprinkle the mixture over the apples and toss to coat evenly.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll Out the Dough: Roll out the larger portion of dough on a floured surface to an 18×13-inch rectangle. Press the dough into the prepared baking sheet, letting the excess dough hang over the edges.
Add the Filling: Spread the apple mixture evenly over the dough.
Top with Dough: Roll out the second portion of dough into a 16×11-inch rectangle and place it over the apples. Trim and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
Brush with Egg Wash: Lightly brush the top of the pie with the beaten egg mixture or plant-based milk.
Vent the Pie: Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
Bake: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Cool and Serve: Let the pie cool for at least 45 minutes before cutting it into squares and serving.
A large apple slab pie cooling on a rack, with a golden-brown crust and bubbling apple filling
Health Benefits of This Apple Slab Pie
This Apple Slab Pie is not only delicious but also offers numerous health benefits:
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