Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices

SAVE THIS!

Introduction

Chicago-style apple slices are an old-fashioned bakery classic that brings back warm childhood memories for many. Baked in large sheet pans and cut into generous squares, these slices are the perfect balance of flaky crust, sweet-tart apple filling, and a simple glaze on top. They’re ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or whenever you want to enjoy a comforting dessert that feels both homey and special.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup whole milk

For the Apple Filling:

• 8–10 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

For the Glaze:

• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter (or fingertips) until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a small bowl, whisk eggs and milk, then stir into the flour mixture.
4. Bring dough together, divide into two equal parts, wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Make the Apple Filling

1. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and flour.
2. Let sit for 10 minutes so the juices start to release.

3. Assemble

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan (or similar).
2. Roll out one piece of dough to fit the bottom of the pan, pressing into corners.
3. Spread apple filling evenly over the dough.
4. Roll out second piece of dough and place over the apples. Trim edges and seal by pinching lightly.
5. Poke a few holes in the top crust with a fork for steam to escape.

4. Bake

• Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until golden brown and apples are tender.
• Let cool slightly.

5. Glaze

1. Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
2. Drizzle glaze over warm (not hot) apple slices.
3. Cool completely before cutting into squares or rectangles.

Storage

• Room temperature: Store covered for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps well for 4–5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and warm slightly before serving.