Holiday Slab Pies – Perfect for Feeding a Crowd
Introduction
These Holiday Slab Pies are the ultimate solution for festive gatherings. Baked in a large jelly roll pan, each pie yields 18–24 servings, making them ideal for parties, potlucks, or family celebrations. Cut into squares for easy serving—guests can enjoy them by hand or with a fork.
Why You’ll Love Slab Pies
Big batch baking: Serves a crowd with minimal effort.
Easy to slice & serve: No fiddly pie wedges.
Versatile base: Works with fruit fillings, custards, or holiday flavors.
Make ahead friendly: Bake, cool, and store until ready to serve.
Ingredients – Crust Recipe
2 cups all‑purpose flour
1 tsp salt
⅔ cup shortening
¼ cup cold butter
2 tsp vegetable oil
⅓ cup milk
1½ tsp lemon juice
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15‑inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
Step 3: Cut in Fats
Add shortening and cold butter. Cut into flour using a pastry cutter or fork until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Add Liquids
Combine vegetable oil, milk, and lemon juice. Pour into flour mixture and stir until dough comes together.
Step 5: Roll & Fit
Roll dough out to fit the jelly roll pan. Press evenly into pan, making sure edges are covered.
Step 6: Fill & Bake
Add your chosen filling (apple, cherry, pecan, pumpkin, etc.). Bake according to filling recipe until golden and set.
Step 7: Cool & Slice
Allow pie to cool completely. Slice into squares for serving.
Tips & Tricks
Chill dough: Refrigerate for 30 minutes before rolling for easier handling.
Fruit fillings: Toss fruit with sugar, cornstarch, and spices before adding.
Decorative topping: Add lattice strips or crumble topping for flair.
Storage: Keep covered at room temp for 2 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.
Variations
Apple Cinnamon Slab Pie: Classic holiday favorite with warm spices.
Cranberry‑Orange Slab Pie: Tart and festive.
Pumpkin Slab Pie: Perfect for Thanksgiving.
Chocolate Pecan Slab Pie: Rich and indulgent.
Serving Ideas
Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream.
Dust with powdered sugar for a festive finish.
Slice into bite‑sized squares for dessert buffets.
Pair with hot cider or mulled wine for holiday gatherings.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Yes, wrap tightly and refrigerate up to 2 days or freeze for 1 month.
Q: Can I use store‑bought crust?
Absolutely—use two rolled pie crusts and press into pan.
Q: Do slab pies travel well?
Yes, they’re sturdy and easy to transport in the pan.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Bake Time: Varies by filling (40–55 minutes typical)
Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 18–24
Final Thoughts
Holiday Slab Pies are festive, practical, and delicious. With a buttery crust and endless filling options, they’re the perfect centerpiece for your holiday dessert table.