Apple Puff Pastry Slab Pie with Vanilla Glaze (Old-Fashioned Bakery Style)
This buttery apple puff pastry slab pie is one of those classic desserts that looks simple, tastes rich, and disappears fast. Flaky golden layers on top, tender cinnamon apples inside, and a smooth vanilla glaze that melts into every bite. It’s the kind of recipe people ask for after the first slice.
Why This Recipe Always Works
- Uses simple ingredients
- Big pan = perfect for family, guests, or sharing
- Crispy outside, soft apple filling inside
- Tastes even better the next day
This is a bakery-style dessert you can easily make at home.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling
- 5–6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons butter
For the Crust
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
(or homemade pie dough if preferred)
For Brushing
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
For the Vanilla Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Try to keep them even so they cook uniformly.
Place apples in a large bowl. Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and lemon juice. Toss gently until all slices are well coated. Let sit for 10 minutes so the apples release their juices.
2. Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat oven to 190°C / 375°F.
Line a rectangular baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra hanging over the sides for easy lifting.
3. Assemble the Base
Roll out one puff pastry sheet slightly and place it in the pan, pressing gently into the corners. Trim excess edges.
Spread the apple mixture evenly over the pastry. Dot the top with small pieces of butter for extra richness.
4. Add the Top Layer
Place the second puff pastry sheet over the apples. Lightly press the edges together. Use a sharp knife to make small slits on top to let steam escape.
Whisk egg with milk and brush generously over the pastry for a golden finish.
5. Bake
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until:
- Top is deep golden brown
- Filling is bubbling through the slits
If browning too fast, loosely cover with foil during the last 10 minutes.
6. Cool Slightly
Remove from oven and let cool 20–30 minutes. This helps the filling set before glazing.
7. Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth and pourable.
Drizzle generously over the warm pastry. Let it settle into the flaky layers.
Cutting & Serving Tips
- Use a sharp knife for clean squares
- Serve warm or room temperature
- Perfect with coffee, tea, or vanilla ice cream
Storage
- Store covered at room temperature for 1 day
- Refrigerate up to 4 days
- Reheat lightly in the oven to restore crispness
- Final Result
You get crispy puff pastry, soft cinnamon apples, and a silky glaze that makes every bite comforting and nostalgic. It’s simple, classic, and always a winner.
If you want:
- version with cream cheese
- version with caramel drizzle
- or a homemade dough version
Tell me and I’ll write it long and detailed too.