Name: Cherry Slab Pie Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-498302H45M49S
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ⅔ cup Sugar; 1 Egg; ½ teaspoon Vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon Salt; 3¾ cups Flour; Butter (amount not specified in the original, estimated 1 cup or 2 sticks); 42 ounces Cherry Pie Filling (2 cans of 21 ounces each); 2 tablespoons Sugar; ½ teaspoon Cinnamon

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 70 reviews

If you’ve been longing for a dessert that combines the nostalgic charm of homemade baking with an easy, crowd-pleasing format, this Cherry Slab Pie Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine biting into tender, buttery crust layered with luscious, bright cherry filling that spills with every forkful. This recipe transforms the classic cherry pie into a simple, shareable tray bake perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or any day that calls for a little extra sweetness. Trust me, once you try this Cherry Slab Pie Recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your most requested desserts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows seven bowls and one egg arranged on a white marbled surface. At the top left are two sticks of pale yellow butter wrapped in paper. Next to butter is a small white bowl filled with fine white sugar. Below sugar is a small white bowl containing ground cinnamon in a warm brown color. To the left of cinnamon is another small white bowl with dark brown vanilla liquid. Below vanilla is a tiny white bowl with fine white salt. To the right of salt is a single brown egg. Toward the bottom right is a large white bowl filled with white flour showing a soft powdery texture. Finally, at the bottom left is a medium white bowl containing cherry pie filling, which is deep red with chunks of glossy cherries in thick sauce. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the ingredients for this Cherry Slab Pie Recipe is a breeze, and each component plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the sprinkle of cinnamon to the rich cherry filling, every element adds something special.

Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to both the crust and the topping, balancing the tart cherries perfectly.

Egg: Binds the crust together and helps achieve that beautiful golden shine on the baked pie.
Vanilla: Enhances the flavor of the crust with a subtle, warm note.
Salt: Essential for amplifying the sweetness and flavors in the crust and filling.

Flour: The foundation of your crust, giving it structure and flakiness.
Cherry Pie Filling (2 cans, 21 oz each): The star of the show, delivering juicy bursts of tart and sweet cherries in every bite.
Cinnamon: Sprinkled on top to add just a hint of spice that perfectly complements the cherries.

How to Make Cherry Slab Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by creaming the butter and sugar together in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy—this ensures your crust will have a tender, buttery texture. Then add in the egg and vanilla, beating until everything is smoothly combined. Finally, mix in the salt and flour until the dough just comes together. Wrap it in plastic and chill for one hour; this resting period helps relax the gluten, making your dough easier to roll out.

Step 2: Roll Out the Base

Lightly flour your work surface and roll out two-thirds of the dough into a rectangle roughly 11 by 15 inches. This size is perfect for lining your 9×13-inch pan with raised edges. You’ll want the dough to drape over the sides for a nice crust edge later.

Step 3: Add the Cherry Filling

Once your dough is in place, spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over it, spreading it gently into a smooth layer. The vibrant red cherries make this pie an eye-catching centerpiece even before it’s baked!

Step 4: Make the Lattice Top

Roll out the remaining third of the dough into a rectangle and slice it into about 1-inch wide strips. Lay these strips diagonally in a crisscross pattern over the cherry filling. Press the ends into the edges, trimming off any excess dough to keep it neat and tidy.

Step 5: Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar

Mix together the sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture generously over the lattice top. The cinnamon sugar will caramelize in the oven, adding a delightful crunch and warm spiced flavor to the crust.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake your slab pie in a preheated 375°F oven for 18 to 20 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly at the edges. Let it cool fully before slicing into squares—that way, each piece will hold its shape beautifully.

How to Serve Cherry Slab Pie Recipe

A rectangular pie with a golden-brown lattice crust sits on a white marbled surface. The lattice is made of wide, flat strips of dough woven neatly over bright red berry filling that shines through the gaps. The edges of the crust are slightly thicker and crimped to hold the filling inside. A dark blue cloth rests underneath the pie on the left side, and part of a fork is visible on the right side near the edge of the surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Cherry Slab Pie Recipe even further, consider a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Both options complement the warm cherry filling and flaky crust with creamy richness. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few fresh cherries on top add a charming final touch.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs delightfully with light, refreshing sides like a crisp green salad or a citrusy fruit salad, balancing out the pie’s richness. If you’re serving a crowd, a pot of coffee or tea is a perfect beverage companion that keeps the focus on the pie without overpowering its flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive feel, arrange your cherry slab pie squares on a rustic wooden board with small ramekins of whipped cream and fresh mint leaves. You could even serve individual squares in mini pie tins or on pretty dessert plates with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for a touch of indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover slices of this Cherry Slab Pie Recipe can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to five days. Storing them properly keeps the crust from becoming soggy and the filling fresh.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this slab pie freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to two months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To bring your frozen or refrigerated Cherry Slab Pie squares back to life, reheat them in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. Microwaving is quicker but can make the crust a bit soft, so the oven is preferred for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling?

Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be a wonderful substitute if you prefer a less sweet and more natural filling. Just be sure to pit and cook them down with sugar and a bit of cornstarch to thicken before assembling your pie.

What’s the secret to a flaky crust for this Cherry Slab Pie Recipe?

Keeping your ingredients cold and not overworking the dough are key. Chilling the dough for at least an hour helps the gluten relax, resulting in a tender, flaky crust that bakes up perfectly every time.

Can I make this pie gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for baking in place of regular flour. The texture might be slightly different, but the pie will still be delicious and enjoyable.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Blind baking the crust slightly before adding the filling can help, but since this recipe uses a thick cherry pie filling, a quicker bake time keeps the crust from becoming soggy. Also, letting the pie cool fully before slicing helps everything set nicely.

Why does this recipe call for a slurry of sugar and cinnamon on top?

The sugar-cinnamon mix caramelizes during baking, adding a crisp, sweet-spiced finish to the crust. It creates a beautiful golden sheen and a hint of warmth that pairs so well with the cherry filling.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Cherry Slab Pie Recipe enough. It’s a heartwarming way to enjoy the timeless flavor of cherry pie with less fuss and more pie to go around. Whether it’s for a special occasion or an everyday treat, it’s sure to bring smiles and maybe even a few happy tears. Give it a try, and get ready for your new favorite dessert tradition!