Cherry Slab Pie

Cherry Slab Pie is the perfect dessert for any gathering or celebration. This delightful pie not only serves a crowd but is also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a favorite for busy bakers. With its flaky crust and sweet cherry filling, this treat will surely impress your guests at picnics, barbecues, or holiday parties.

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Why You’ll Love This Cherry Slab Pie

Cherry Slab Pie offers a delightful combination of taste and practicality, making it a must-try dessert.

• Feeds a Crowd: This recipe makes enough to satisfy a large group, ideal for gatherings.
• Simple to Make: Using refrigerated pie dough simplifies the process, allowing you to whip it up quickly.
• Versatile Filling: You can easily swap out cherry filling for other fruits like blueberry or apple.
• Customizable Topping: Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes on top or opt for a classic lattice design.
• Great Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it the day before your event for stress-free serving!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Cherry Slab Pie, gather your essential tools to make the process seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sheet Pan
• Rolling Pin
• Silicone Rolling Mat (optional)
• 3 Star Cookie Cutter

Importance of Each Tool

• Sheet Pan: Provides ample space for baking and ensures even cooking.
• Rolling Pin: Helps roll out the pie dough evenly for a perfect crust.
• Silicone Rolling Mat: Offers a non-stick surface for easy rolling and cleanup.

Ingredients

For the Dough and Filling

• 3 refrigerated pie dough rounds from 2 boxes
• 2 21-ounce cans cherry pie filling
• 1 egg with 1 tsp cold water
• Sugar

Equipment Needed

• Sheet Pan
• Rolling Pin
• Silicone Rolling Mat (optional)
• 3 Star Cookie Cutter

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How to Make Cherry Slab Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F. This ensures that your Cherry Slab Pie bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Place the wrapped pie dough on the counter and allow it to come to room temperature. This will make it easier to roll out.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Spray an 11×16 or similar size rimmed baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Lightly flour your work surface or use a silicone pad. Place two of the pie rounds together side by side but overlapping slightly in the middle.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Roll these two pie rounds into a rectangle slightly larger than your baking sheet (about 12×17 inches) so that there’s overhang on all sides.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Sheet

Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough onto the sheet pan using your rolling pin. Press the crust into the pan, making sure it fits snugly in corners while letting excess hang over.

Step 7: Trim Overhang

Roll and press any overhanging dough into sides of the crust around the pan.

Step 8: Add Cherry Filling

Spread both cans of cherry pie filling evenly on top of the prepared dough base.

Step 9: Roll Out Top Crust

Take the third pie dough round and roll it out using a floured rolling pin on a lightly floured surface.

Step 10: Cut Out Shapes

Use a star cookie cutter to cut out approximately 24 stars from rolled-out dough. Re-roll as needed and place stars over pie filling.

Step 11: Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together one egg with cold water. Brush this mixture over both stars and crust edges using a pastry brush, then sprinkle sugar on top.

Step 12: Bake

Bake your Cherry Slab Pie in preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool slightly before cutting into squares and serving.

How to Serve Cherry Slab Pie

Cherry slab pie is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

A La Mode

• Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The cold ice cream melts slightly, creating a delicious contrast with the warm pie.

Whipped Cream Delight

• Top each slice with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy finish. This adds a creamy texture that complements the cherry filling perfectly.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Add a few fresh cherries or strawberries on the side for an extra burst of flavor and color. Fresh fruit enhances the overall presentation and taste.

Drizzle of Chocolate

• For chocolate lovers, drizzle melted chocolate over the top of each slice. This rich addition pairs beautifully with the sweet cherries.

Lemon Zest Finish

• Sprinkle grated lemon zest on top just before serving. The citrusy notes brighten the flavor profile and add a refreshing touch.

Pair with Coffee

• Serve slices alongside a cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. The bitterness of the coffee balances out the sweetness of the pie.

How to Perfect Cherry Slab Pie

Making a perfect cherry slab pie requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out amazing every time.

• Use Room Temperature Dough: Allowing dough to sit at room temperature makes it easier to roll out and prevents cracking.
• Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to add more filling, overfilling can cause spills and soggy crusts.
• Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on your pie while it bakes; ovens vary, so adjust baking time as needed for a golden crust.
• Let It Cool: Allowing the pie to cool before cutting helps set the filling and makes serving easier.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to mix different fruit fillings for unique flavor combinations.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers covered in the fridge. It tastes great chilled or reheated!

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Best Side Dishes for Cherry Slab Pie

Pairing side dishes with cherry slab pie can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, vanilla ice cream complements cherry flavors beautifully.
2. Pecan Crumble: A crunchy pecan crumble adds texture and nutty flavors that contrast nicely with the soft pie.
3. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory balance against the sweetness of the pie.
4. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides freshness and brightness alongside your dessert.
5. Chocolate Mousse: Rich chocolate mousse can be served in small portions as an elegant accompaniment.
6. Coffee Cake: For brunch occasions, serve slices of coffee cake alongside cherry slab pie for a delightful treat.
7. Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce enhances flavor complexity when served atop each slice.
8. Mint Leaves: Garnishing plates with mint leaves adds color and a hint of freshness that brightens up the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home bakers encounter issues when making Cherry Slab Pie. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Not Prepping the Dough Properly: Failing to let the pie dough reach room temperature can cause it to crack or become difficult to roll. Always follow the package instructions for best results.
• Overfilling: Adding too much cherry pie filling can lead to a soggy crust. Stick to the recommended amount from the recipe for optimal texture and flavor.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can affect the pie’s outcome. Make sure your oven is preheated to 425°F before placing the pie inside.
• Neglecting Egg Wash: Skipping the egg wash on top of the crust will result in a dull appearance. Brush it on generously for a beautiful, golden finish.
• Cutting Too Soon: Allowing the pie to cool completely before cutting is essential for clean slices. Be patient, as this will improve presentation and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Cherry Slab Pie can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• The pie can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for 30-45 seconds or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: For a quick heat-up, place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid, and warm until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Cherry Slab Pie that may help you perfect your baking experience.

Can I use different fruit fillings for Cherry Slab Pie?

Yes! You can substitute cherry filling with any fruit filling you prefer, such as blueberry or peach, making this recipe versatile.

How do I know when my Cherry Slab Pie is done?

The pie is ready when the crust turns golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Keep an eye on it during baking!

Can I make Cherry Slab Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dessert can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator until serving, making it perfect for gatherings.

What if I don’t have a star cookie cutter?

No problem! You can use any shape cookie cutter you have on hand or opt for a lattice design instead.

How should I serve Cherry Slab Pie?

This pie is best served chilled or at room temperature. Pair it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

Cherry Slab Pie is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it ideal for parties or family gatherings. With its crowd-pleasing nature and customizable options, everyone will love this dessert. Try different fillings and shapes to make it uniquely yours!