Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices

Introduction

Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices are a nostalgic dessert inspired by classic neighborhood bakeries. These slices feature a buttery, flaky crust layered with a sweet, spiced apple filling and finished with a simple powdered sugar glaze. Baked in a sheet pan and cut into generous squares, this dessert is perfect for feeding a crowd and delivering warm, homemade comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

• 2 large eggs

• 5–6 tablespoons cold water

For the Apple Filling

• 8 cups apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (about 6–8 apples)

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2–3 tablespoons milk

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and cut it into the flour using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
In a small bowl, beat the eggs and mix in 5 tablespoons of cold water. Gradually add this mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until the dough begins to come together. Add more water, 1 teaspoon at a time, if needed.
Divide the dough into two equal portions, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until evenly coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Apple Slices

On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough into a large rectangle. Transfer it to the prepared pan, pressing it evenly into the bottom and slightly up the sides.
Spread the apple filling evenly over the crust and drizzle with melted butter. Roll out the second portion of dough and place it over the apples. Seal the edges and cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

While the slices cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding milk a teaspoon at a time if needed.

Step 7: Glaze and Serve

Drizzle the glaze over the slightly cooled apple slices. Let it set for about 10 minutes, then cut into squares and serve.

Conclusion

Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices are a timeless dessert that brings together flaky pastry, warmly spiced apples, and a sweet glaze in every bite. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, this recipe delivers classic bakery flavor right from your own kitchen. Serve warm or at room temperature for a comforting treat everyone will love.