Scrumptious Apple Slices

I’m thrilled to share a recipe that’s close to my heart and sure to become a favorite in your kitchen – Scrumptious Apple Slices!

These apple slices were one of my mom’s signature recipes.  She made them each fall from the apples in her orchard.  And throughout the year from the frozen apples that she stored. These scrumptious apple slices transport me back in time and provide wonderful memories of my mom’s kitchen. 

Imagine the comforting warmth of a classic apple pie, but with a delightful twist that transforms it into a convenient, crowd-pleasing treat.

What sets this recipe apart is a secret ingredient in the crust – yes, you read that right – corn flakes!

This unexpected addition brings a subtle crunch and a unique texture that elevates this beloved apple dessert to new heights.

Paired with a light, whipped egg white topping, these apple slices are not just a treat for the taste buds but a conversation starter for any gathering.

Grab your apron, let’s get baking this delicious dessert!

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Ingredients in These Scrumptious Apple Slices

In crafting these delectable Apple Slices, I start with the basics: a blend of 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, a tablespoon of sugar, and a teaspoon of salt.

To achieve that perfect, flaky crust, I rely on 1 cup of shortening, ensuring a rich and buttery foundation. I like to use Butter Flavored Crisco Shortening, but you can use any shortening.

But here’s where the magic begins — a single egg, separated, with the yolk beautifully mingling with 2/3 cup of milk. This will infuse the crust with a delicate richness.

Now, let’s talk texture – introducing 2/3 cup of crushed corn flakes, an unexpected twist that brings a satisfying crunch to each bite.

And of course, the star of the show – the apples! I use 3-4 of them, peeled and sliced to perfection, combined with a tantalizing mix of 1/2 cup of sugar and a teaspoon of cinnamon.

This luscious apple filling promises a burst of sweetness and warmth. It will taste like heaven!!

But wait, we’re not done yet.

Picture this: a frosted finish that elevates our slices to dessert perfection. Mmmm….

For the frosting glaze, I blend 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk (add a splash of vanilla extract if you fancy).

This glaze, drizzled over the top, creates a tempting sheen that hints at the deliciousness within.

It’s a symphony of flavors and textures, a medley of tradition and innovation. Let’s embark on this baking journey and savor the divine combination of flaky crust, sweet apples, and a finishing touch that’s nothing short of heavenly.

Making These Scrumptious Apple Slices

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Crust

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and salt.

Cut in the shortening using a pastry blender or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

In a small bowl, beat the egg yolk and mix it with the milk. Stir this into the flour mixture just until the dough comes together.

Divide the dough in half. Roll out one half to fit the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan. Lay the dough in the pan.

Add Corn Flakes Layer

Sprinkle the crushed corn flakes evenly over the crust in the pan. This layer helps absorb the juices from the apples and keeps the crust from getting soggy.

Prepare Apple Filling

In a separate bowl, combine the sliced apples, 1/2 cup sugar, and cinnamon. Toss to coat the apples evenly.

Spread the apple mixture over the corn flakes layer.

Top Crust

Roll out the second half of the dough and place it over the apple layer. You may choose to make a lattice top if you prefer. Pinch the sides of the two crusts together to seal them!

Egg White Topping

Beat the reserved egg white until stiff peaks form. Gently spread this over the top crust. This will give a nice sheen and a slight crispness to the crust.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.

Cool and Serve

Let the apple slices cool in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.

These apple slices can be enjoyed as they are, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. But I like to make a frosting and drizzle it over the top of this yummy dessert!

Stir together the ingredients for the glaze and use a spoon to drizzle it all over the top!

Enjoy your homemade apple slices! This dessert combines the classic flavors of apple pie with the convenience of a bar dessert, perfect for serving a crowd or enjoying as a family treat.

Baking Tips and Tricks for this Scrumptious Apple Slices Recipe!

Achieving a flaky crust, perfectly sliced apples, and effectively whipped egg whites can significantly enhance the success of your apple slices recipe. Here are some baking tips and tricks for each:

Flaky Crust

Use chilled shortening or butter. Cold fats create pockets of steam when baked, contributing to a flaky texture.

Overmixing can lead to a tough crust. Mix the dough just until it comes together; it’s okay if there are visible bits of fat.

A tablespoon of white vinegar or vodka added to the crust helps inhibit gluten formation, resulting in a more tender crust without affecting the flakiness.

Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling. This prevents the fat from melting too quickly in the oven, leading to flakier layers.

Preheat the oven thoroughly. A hot oven helps the fat in the crust quickly create steam, leading to flakiness.

Slicing Apples

Select firm, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Softer apples can become mushy during baking.

Aim for uniform thickness in your apple slices to ensure even cooking. A mandoline or a sharp knife can help achieve consistent slices.

Remove the apple core and seeds before slicing. This not only improves the texture but also prevents any bitterness from the seeds.

Toss the apple slices in a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning and add a subtle citrus flavor.

If using hard, less juicy apples, consider precooking them slightly in a saucepan with sugar and spices to soften and infuse flavor.

Whipping Egg Whites

Allow egg whites to come to room temperature before whipping. Room temperature egg whites achieve higher volume.

Ensure the mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry. Any grease or moisture can inhibit the egg whites from reaching their full volume.

Make sure there are no traces of egg yolk in the whites. Even a small amount of fat from the yolk can hinder the whipping process.

Adding a pinch of cream of tartar stabilizes the egg whites and helps maintain their structure.

Start whipping at low speed, gradually increasing to high. This allows for more stable and evenly whipped egg whites.

By paying attention to these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delightful dessert with a flaky crust, perfectly sliced apples, and a light, whipped egg white topping.

How to Store Scrumptious Apple Slices

To store these apple slices, follow these guidelines to maintain their freshness and flavor:

Room Temperature

If you plan to consume the apple slices within 1-2 days, you can store them at room temperature, covered with plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container. Make sure the container is sealed well to prevent the slices from drying out.

Refrigeration

For longer storage, especially if you live in a warm climate, it’s recommended to refrigerate the apple slices. Place them in an airtight container or cover the baking pan tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigeration helps slow down the oxidation process and keeps the slices fresh for up to 4-5 days.

Freezing

If you want to store the apple slices for an extended period, consider freezing them. Here’s how:

Allow the slices to cool completely.

Cut them into individual serving portions.

Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Label with the date for reference.

Frozen apple slices can last for 2-3 months.

Thawing

When ready to enjoy the frozen slices, transfer them to the refrigerator and let them thaw overnight. Reheat in the oven at a low temperature to refresh the texture.

Note on Glaze

If you’ve added the frosting glaze, keep in mind that the glaze may become slightly softened when refrigerated. It’s a good idea to let the slices come to room temperature or reheat them gently in the oven if you prefer the glaze to have a firmer texture.

Always use your discretion when assessing the freshness of stored baked goods. If the slices show signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or changes in color or texture, it’s best to discard them.

Substitute Ingredients You Could Use for Making These Scrumptious Apple Slices

Here are some ingredient substitutions for making the apple slices. These alternatives can be helpful for dietary preferences, allergies, or simply if you’re out of a certain ingredient:

Flour

For a gluten-free alternative, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option, though it may change the texture slightly.

Sugar (in crust and filling)

Brown sugar can be used for a deeper, molasses-like flavor.

For a lower glycemic index, coconut sugar is a good substitute.

To reduce sugar, consider a sugar substitute like Stevia or Splenda, but be aware of conversion rates as they differ from regular sugar.

Shortening

Unsalted butter can be used for a richer flavor. Keep it cold for a flaky crust.

For a vegan alternative, try coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute.

Egg

If you need an egg-free version, a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, left to sit until thickened) can work as a binding agent.

Milk

Any non-dairy milk like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk can substitute cow’s milk for a dairy-free version.

If lactose is an issue but dairy is okay, lactose-free milk is a direct substitute.

Corn Flakes

If corn flakes aren’t available, try using another plain, unsweetened cereal like crushed rice cereal or even breadcrumbs for a similar texture.

Apples

Feel free to use any variety of apples, though tart varieties like Granny Smith are often preferred for baking.

Pears can be a delightful alternative if you’re looking for a different fruit option.

Cinnamon

Nutmeg or allspice can be used as a substitute, or simply omit if you don’t enjoy cinnamon.

Each substitution may slightly alter the taste and texture of the final product, so it’s a good idea to experiment to see what works best for your preferences and dietary needs. Remember to consider how each substitution may interact with the other ingredients and the overall baking process.

What Pairs Well With These Scrumptious Apple Slices?

Apple slices pair well with a variety of accompaniments that complement their sweet and tart flavors. Here are some delightful pairings:

Vanilla Ice Cream

Serve warm apple slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm-cold combination is a classic dessert that’s hard to beat.

Caramel Sauce

Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the apple slices for a rich and gooey treat. The caramel enhances the sweetness of the apples.

Whipped Cream

A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy texture to the apple slices. It’s a simple and delicious topping.

Cheddar Cheese

Believe it or not, cheddar cheese pairs exceptionally well with apple slices. The sharpness of the cheese complements the sweetness of the apples. You can serve thin slices of cheddar alongside or melt it on top.

Nutty Toppings

Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, over the apple slices. The crunchiness of the nuts adds a nice texture contrast.

Yogurt

A spoonful of plain or vanilla yogurt can be a refreshing and slightly tangy addition to the sweet apple slices.

Maple Syrup

Drizzle warm maple syrup over the apple slices for a natural and slightly earthy sweetness.

Cinnamon Sugar

Combine cinnamon and sugar, then sprinkle it over the apple slices. This enhances the warm and comforting flavors.

Crème Fraîche

Similar to yogurt, crème fraîche adds a creamy and tangy element that complements the sweetness of the apples.

Ginger or Nutmeg

If you enjoy a hint of spice, sprinkle a bit of ground ginger or nutmeg over the apple slices for a warm and aromatic touch.

Feel free to mix and match these pairings based on your preferences. Whether you’re serving apple slices as a dessert, snack, or part of a brunch, these combinations are sure to delight your taste buds.

Where Did the Recipe for Scrumptious Apple Slices Originate?

This recipe was passed down to me from my sweet mom’s recipe box.  But it has even more history than that!

These scrumptious apple slices recipe seems to be a variation of traditional apple pie, transformed into a bar or sheet form. This style of dessert is quite popular in the United States and in several European countries, with each having its own version or adaptation.

In the U.S., particularly in the Midwest, apple slices or apple slab pie is a common treat, especially in regions where apple orchards are abundant.

The concept is similar to a classic apple pie, but made in a rectangular baking pan, making it easier to serve in larger gatherings.

The use of corn flakes in the crust isn’t typical of traditional apple pies, suggesting a unique twist possibly added by a home baker or a regional adaptation for added texture.

European versions, like the German “Apfelkuchen” or the Dutch “appeltaart,” also share similarities with this recipe, though they might vary in terms of crust types and additional ingredients like raisins, almonds, or custard fillings.  Interesting, right?

If you love this Scrumptious Apple Slices recipe check out my Apple Kiffle Recipe too!

Happy Baking and Enjoy!!!