In the heart of autumn, when the air is crisp and leaves crunch beneath our feet, the sweet scent of freshly baked Chicago-style bakery apple slices fills the kitchen. These delightful squares bring together layers of flaky pastry and tender spiced apples, all topped with a luscious vanilla glaze. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to slice and share—perfect for bustling gatherings or cozy family nights. With prep time that won’t steal your evening and a crowd-pleasing charm, these apple slices are bound to become a beloved addition to your fall dessert repertoire. So, what toppings would you drizzle on yours—whipped cream or caramel sauce?
Why are these apple slices a must-try?
Simplicity: This recipe is easy to follow, requiring just a few simple steps that even beginner bakers can master.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, these apple slices are sure to impress with their beautiful presentation and delightful flavors.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet vanilla glaze and spiced apples creates a harmonious blend that evokes the essence of autumn in every bite.
Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment! You can add nuts or choose a different apple variety for unique flavor profiles. Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream or drizzle with caramel for indulgence.
Quick Prep Time: You’ll spend minimal time in the kitchen and more time enjoying this delightful treat.
Whether you’re reminiscing about visits to your favorite bakery or just craving the comfort of homemade goods, these Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices will be an exciting addition to your dessert table!
Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices Ingredients
• Get ready to bake with these delightful essentials!
For the Crust
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the perfect structure; can substitute with a gluten-free blend if desired.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the crust; light brown sugar adds a hint of caramel flavor.
- Salt – Enhances the flavors in both the crust and filling.
- Cold Unsalted Butter – Creates flakiness; using half butter and half shortening offers a richer taste.
- Large Eggs – Acts as a binding agent for a sturdy crust.
- Ice Water – Helps bring the dough together while keeping it cold.
For the Apple Filling
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the filling and prevents apples from browning; essential for fresh flavor.
- Sliced Apples – Use Granny Smith for tartness and structure; avoid softer varieties like McIntosh.
- Cornstarch – Thickens the filling, ensuring a perfect texture that doesn’t make the crust soggy.
- Ground Cinnamon & Nutmeg – Infuses warm, autumn spices that elevate the apple flavor.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and depth in both the filling and the glaze.
For the Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – A key ingredient that makes the glaze sweet and smooth.
- Milk – Thins the glaze to the perfect pouring consistency for an even drizzle.
- Melted Butter – Adds richness and a silky touch to the glaze.
With these tasty ingredients on hand, you’ll be well on your way to creating your own fabulous Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices. Enjoy the cozy baking adventure!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices
Step 1: Dough Preparation
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt until well combined. Cut in 1 cup of cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This ensures a flaky crust that will envelop your spiced apple filling beautifully.
Step 2: Form the Dough
Once crumbly, add in 1 large egg, 3 tablespoons of ice water, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Mix gently until a shaggy dough forms; avoid overworking it. Divide the dough into two equal pieces, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill and firm up.
Step 3: Prepare the Apple Filling
While the dough chills, get your apples ready! Peel, core, and slice about 6 cups of Granny Smith apples, then toss them in a large bowl with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This filling should be aromatic and lightly coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Slices
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the larger piece of dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Carefully transfer the rolled dough into the pan, ensuring it covers the bottom and edges. Spread the prepared apple filling evenly over the crust, creating a generous layer.
Step 5: Add the Top Crust
Roll out the second piece of dough and place it over the apple filling, trimming any excess dough. Crimp the edges together to seal in the filling and cut a few slits in the top to let steam escape. These Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices will have a beautiful golden crust when baked.
Step 6: Bake the Apple Slices
Bake your assembled apple slices in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the top crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Once done, remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan, filling your kitchen with that irresistible autumn aroma.
Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
While the slices cool, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and enough milk to achieve a smooth, drizzling consistency. This vanilla glaze will add the perfect sweet finish to your Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices.
Step 8: Drizzle and Serve
Once cooled, drizzle the prepared glaze over the apple slices, allowing it to set for a few minutes. Now, slice into squares and serve these delightful apple slices at gatherings or save them for a cozy evening treat. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade creation!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices are a fantastic candidate for meal prep! You can prepare the dough and apple filling up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, make the dough as directed, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate, which ensures it stays cold and flaky. The apple filling can also be prepped by slicing and mixing the apples with spices, and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll out the dough, assemble the slices, and bake as usual. With these prep steps, you’ll enjoy a warm and comforting dessert with minimalist effort on the day of serving!
Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices Variations
Feeling adventurous? Let’s explore how you can personalize your apple slices with these tasty twists!
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Fruit Fusion: Combine Granny Smith apples with Honeycrisp or Golden Delicious for a delightful mix of tart and sweet flavors. This combination can elevate the taste profile significantly!
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for a texture boost that adds a satisfying crunch. This little twist introduces a wonderful contrast to the tender apples.
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Tropical Twist: Try mixing in diced pineapple for an unexpected tropical touch. The pineapple’s sweetness pairs beautifully with the cinnamon, creating a flavor that’s both comforting and bright.
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Spice It Up: If you’re craving heat, sprinkle a bit of cayenne pepper into the apple filling for a subtle kick. It’s a surprising addition that highlights the sweetness of the apples.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Swap butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free counterpart for both the crust and glaze, perfect for a dairy-free dessert that doesn’t compromise flavor!
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Caramel Drizzle: For an indulgent sweep of sweetness, add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top just before serving for an extra layer of deliciousness. This transforms your apple slices into a truly decadent treat.
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Frozen Treat: Freeze these slices and enjoy them topped with your favorite ice cream for a delightful dessert any time of the year. It’s a fun surprise that turns autumn flavors into a summer treat!
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Flavor Extracts: Experiment with different extracts such as almond or maple instead of vanilla in the glaze for unique taste variations. What a simple way to refresh this classic!
If you’re looking for more delicious apple-inspired desserts, consider trying the irresistible Salted Caramel Apple or whip up a batch of Apple Cake Cream for a delightful change! Mix these variations into your baking adventure, and you might just discover a new family favorite.
What to Serve with Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices
These delicious apple slices deserve the perfect companions to create a memorable meal.
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Cinnamon Ice Cream: A warm slice paired with creamy, spiced ice cream elevates the autumn experience and adds a delightful temperature contrast.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling with rich caramel adds indulgence; the sweetness pairs beautifully with the tart apples for a gourmet touch.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a dollop of whipped cream enhances the dish’s overall creaminess, balancing flavors and textures beautifully.
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Coffee: A warm cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the slices, creating a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for chilly gatherings.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Serve alongside warm cider infused with spices for a refreshing fall-inspired drink that mirrors the flavors of the dessert.
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Cheese Plate: A selection of sharp cheddar or creamy brie brings a sophisticated twist, balancing the sweetness of the apple slices with savory notes.
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Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast, cleansing the palate between bites of rich, sweet apple goodness.
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Nutty Granola: Serve a small portion of crunchy granola on the side for an added texture that mimics the crunch of the crust and enhances the dessert experience.
How to Store and Freeze Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices
- Room Temperature: Allow the apple slices to cool completely and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh without losing their delightful texture.
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a warm treat that brings back the freshly baked flavor.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
- Reheating: To enjoy your Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices warm, reheat in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. This method keeps the crust crispy while warming the filling.
Expert Tips for Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices
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Keep Ingredients Cold: To achieve a flaky crust, ensure that all ingredients, especially butter and water, are cold when making the dough. If the dough becomes warm, chill it briefly.
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Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix your ingredients until just combined to prevent the crust from becoming tough. A gentle touch ensures a light and flaky texture.
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Blind Bake: For a crisper bottom crust, consider blind baking the bottom for 10 minutes before adding the apple filling and top crust. This helps avoid sogginess.
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Choose the Right Apples: Use Granny Smith apples for their tartness and structure; avoid softer varieties like McIntosh that can turn mushy during baking.
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Slicing the Glaze: Drizzle the glaze over the slices just before serving to ensure maximum freshness and a glossy appearance. Enjoy these delicious Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices warm or at room temperature!
Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices Recipe FAQs
What kind of apples should I use for the filling?
For the best results, I recommend using Granny Smith apples due to their tartness and firm structure. They hold up well during baking, ensuring that your Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices have a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. Avoid softer apples like McIntosh or Red Delicious; they’ll turn mushy and ruin the texture of your slices.
How do I store leftover apple slices?
To keep your delicious Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices fresh, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be good for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave for that freshly baked taste. They also taste delightful when served warm!
Can I freeze these apple slices?
Absolutely! If you want to save some slices for later, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, just thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, and reheat as needed.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, don’t worry! This can happen sometimes. Simply sprinkle a little extra flour over the surface and your hands, then continue to knead gently until it reaches a workable consistency. Remember, the dough should feel wet but not so sticky that it clings to everything. If you continue to have trouble, refrigerate the dough for about 15-20 minutes to make it easier to work with.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Certainly! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for your Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices. Make sure to choose a blend that includes a binding agent, such as xanthan gum or guar gum, to ensure that the crust holds together properly. Enjoy your baking adventure!
How can I prevent the bottom crust from getting soggy?
To avoid a soggy bottom crust, you may want to blind bake it for about 10 minutes before adding the apple filling. This means pre-baking the crust without filling, which creates a barrier that helps keep it crisp. Alternatively, you can sprinkle some crushed cornflakes on the bottom crust before layering with the filling to absorb excess moisture.
Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices with Sweet Vanilla Glaze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt until well combined. Cut in cold butter until resembling coarse crumbs.
- Add the egg, ice water, and lemon juice. Mix gently until a shaggy dough forms. Divide into two pieces, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Peel, core, and slice Granny Smith apples. Toss with sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the larger piece of dough to fit a greased 9x13-inch baking pan. Transfer to the pan.
- Spread the apple filling evenly over the crust. Roll out the second piece of dough, cover the filling, crimp edges, and cut slits in the top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Whisk together powdered sugar, melted butter, and enough milk for a smooth glaze.
- Drizzle glaze over the cooled slices, slice into squares, and serve.
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