Chicago-style bakery apple slices are a nostalgic dessert that many remember from classic Midwest bakeries. With a buttery, flaky crust, layers of sweet spiced apples, and a light vanilla glaze, these slices are perfect for feeding a crowd. Every bite delivers homemade comfort that feels like a taste of tradition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crowd-Friendly: Easy to bake in a 9×13 pan and cut into squares.
- Classic Flavor: A mix of tart and sweet apples balances the filling.
- Flaky Crust: Rich, buttery layers hold everything together beautifully.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and glazed before serving.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For the Apple Filling
- 8 cups apples (about 6–8), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- 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
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a small bowl, whisk eggs with 5 tablespoons of cold water. Stir into the flour mixture until dough comes together, adding an extra tablespoon of water if needed. Divide dough in half, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
3. Make the Apple Filling
In a large bowl, toss apple slices with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until evenly coated.
4. Assemble the Slices
Roll out one dough portion into a rectangle and fit it into the prepared pan. Spread the apple filling evenly over the crust and drizzle with melted butter. Roll out the second dough portion and place it on top, sealing the edges. Cut a few slits in the crust to allow steam to escape.
5. Bake
Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the crust is golden and the apples are tender. Cover the edges with foil if they brown too quickly.
6. Prepare the Glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Add more milk, a teaspoon at a time, if needed to reach a drizzling consistency.
7. Glaze & Serve
Allow apple slices to cool slightly before drizzling with glaze. Let the glaze set for 10 minutes before cutting into squares.
Tips for Perfect Apple Slices
- Mix Apple Varieties: A combination of tart Granny Smith and sweet Honeycrisp creates the best balance.
- Chill the Dough: Cold butter ensures a flaky crust.
- Optional Blind Bake: For extra crispness, bake the bottom crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling.
This Chicago-style bakery apple slice recipe brings the classic flavors of home baking to your kitchen. Perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or simply enjoying with coffee or tea, it’s a timeless dessert everyone will love.
- 2 large eggs
- 5–6 tablespoons cold water
