Flat Apple Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience wrapped in sweet, flaky pastry. This pie, perfect for gatherings where cutlery is scarce, allows for a mess-free enjoyment of a classic favorite. The ingenious method of preparing it on a flat cookie sheet ensures a perfectly crispy crust wrapped around a succulent apple filling, turning every bite into a delicious adventure. Whether it’s a warm summer picnic or a cozy gathering, this flat apple pie promises to be a crowd-pleaser.
Growing up, baking with my mom was filled with experimental recipes, but this flat apple pie became an instant family heirloom. One memorable autumn, we decided to bake this pie for a family picnic. Despite my doubts about its unconventional presentation, the pie was a hit, with relatives both young and old reaching for seconds. The incident of watching my uncle trying to discreetly tuck a third piece into his napkin thinking no one was watching, is a fond memory that accompanies the making of this dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Flat Apple Pie Recipe
– Easy to eat: Perfect for handheld eating without the need for plates or forks.
– No mess: The unique flat design minimizes the ooey-gooey spillage typical of traditional pies.
– Deliciously crispy: The bottom crust remains flaky and crisp, providing the perfect textural balance to the soft apple filling.
– Versatile: Ideal for various occasions, from formal meals to casual picnics and outdoor events.
Ingredient Notes
– All-purpose flour: Forms the foundation of the pie crust, lending it structure and flakiness.
– Salt: Enhances the flavors of the flour and balances the sweetness of the filling.
– Shortening: Used in the crust to provide a crumbly texture that’s hard to achieve with butter alone.
– Egg yolk and milk: These enrich the dough, giving it a rich, tender texture.
– Corn Flakes: A layer of Corn Flakes under the apples prevents the bottom from getting soggy and adds a subtle crunch.
– Granny Smith apples: Their tartness contrasts beautifully with the sweet filling, and they hold up well during baking.
– Butter: Adds richness and helps thicken the filling, creating luscious, flavor-packed bites.
– Sugar and cinnamon: Essential for that classic apple pie sweetness and warmth.
How to Make Flat Apple Pie Recipe
– Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Mix the flour, salt, shortening, and the liquid mixture of egg yolk and milk to form a dough. This forms a crust that is both sturdy and tender, perfect as the base and top of the pie.
– Step 2: Assemble the Base
Roll out half the dough to fit a large cookie sheet. The thin spread ensures an even cooking and a crisp texture throughout.
– Step 3: Add Crunch
Sprinkle a generous layer of Corn Flakes over the rolled dough. This not only adds a nestled crunch but protects the dough from becoming soggy under the apple layer.
– Step 4: Layer the Apples
Arrange the sliced Granny Smith apples over the Corn Flakes. Their sharp, tart flavor is the perfect complement to the sweet frosting.
– Step 5: Create the Filling
Mix sugar and cinnamon, and sprinkle this over the apples. Add cubed butter across the top, which will melt through the filling, adding flavor and richness.
– Step 6: Cover and Seal
Place the other rolled-out dough over the filling and press down the edges to seal. This ensures none of the good stuff spills out during the baking.
– Step 7: Finish and Bake
Beat egg white and a teaspoon of sugar together and brush this over the top crust. Cut a few small slits into the crust to let steam escape. Bake at 425 degrees F for 25-30 minutes until golden and crisp.
– Step 8: The Frosting
Combine powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk to create a thin, sweet frosting. Drizzle this over the hot pie, adding a final touch of sweetness.
Storage Options
This pie tastes best when enjoyed the day it’s made but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to five days. Reheat in a warm oven to recrisp the pastry.
Variations and Substitutions
– Replace Granny Smith with a sweeter variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp for a less tart flavor profile.
– For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil instead of shortening and almond milk in place of regular milk.
– Add a sprinkle of nutmeg alongside cinnamon for a deeper spice flavor.
– Incorporate a layer of mixed berries for a fruity twist on the classic apple filling.
What to Serve With Flat Apple Pie
– Vanilla ice cream: A classic pairing, the creamy sweetness complements the tartness of the apples.
– Cheddar cheese: Adding a slice of sharp cheddar cheese to a warm pie slice is a traditional New England twist.
– Coffee: A hot cup of coffee with pie is perfect for late-morning indulgence.
Frequently Asked Questions
– Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, feel free to experiment with your favorite apple varieties. Adjust the sugar based on the tartness of the apples used.
– Is it possible to make a gluten-free version?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with your preferred gluten-free flour mix. Ensure that it’s suitable for baking.
– Can I prepare this pie ahead of time?
You can prepare the crust and slice the apples a day ahead, storing them separately in the fridge. Assemble and bake the day of serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
– Any tips for the perfect crust?
Keep all ingredients, especially the shortening and liquid, cold to prevent the fat from melting prematurely. This ensures a flakier crust.
By following this detailed guide to creating Flat Apple Pie, you’re not just baking a dish, you’re crafting a moment. The blend of crisp pastry, tangy-apple filling, and sweet frosting makes this a memorable treat that delights the senses and brings a taste of nostalgia.
Flat Apple Pie
Equipment
- Large Cookie Sheet
Ingredients
Crust Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup shortening
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tbsp milk
Filling Ingredients
- Corn Flakes
- 6 Granny Smith apples peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp butter cubed
Instructions
- Mix the flour, salt, shortening, egg yolk, and milk to form a dough.
- Roll out half the dough to fit a large cookie sheet.
- Sprinkle Corn Flakes over the rolled dough.
- Arrange sliced apples over the Corn Flakes.
- Sprinkle sugar and cinnamon over the apples, add cubed butter.
- Place the other rolled-out dough over the filling and press to seal.
- Brush the top crust with egg white and sugar, bake at 425°F for 25-30 minutes.
- Combine powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk for frosting and drizzle over hot pie.