Before I even start, I have to tell you how grateful I am for the way recipes connect us to places we’ve never been. Chicago has been on my bucket list for years, but until I can wander down Michigan Avenue in person, I’m more than happy to bring a little taste of the Windy City into my kitchen. And today’s recipe? Oh, it’s a keeper.
Chicago-style bakery apple slices are pure nostalgia on a plate—flaky pastry, cinnamon-sweet apple filling, and a glossy vanilla glaze that cracks just slightly as you bite in. You’ll swear you picked them up from a neighborhood bakery that’s been making them the same way for decades.
I promised you versatile, and here’s proof—you can make these with homemade pie dough or take a little shortcut with store-bought, and they’ll still be bakery-beautiful. The smell when these are in the oven? Incredible. I’m kicking myself for not having recorded it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bakery quality at home – Flaky crust, gooey center, sweet glaze.
- Perfect for gatherings – Feeds a crowd with minimal effort.
- Make-ahead friendly – They store and reheat beautifully.
- Adaptable – Switch up the filling or flavor the glaze.
What Do They Taste Like?
Imagine the comforting flavor of apple pie, but in an easy-to-hold, sliceable bar. The crust is buttery and tender, the filling is juicy and spiced, and the glaze adds a creamy-sweet finish. Anything but boring!!
Benefits of This Recipe
- Budget-friendly ingredients.
- Easy for beginner bakers.
- Doubles easily for larger batches.
Ingredients
For the Pie Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1¼ cups (2½ sticks) unsalted butter, chilled
- ½ cup ice water (plus more as needed)
For the Filling:
- 4 cups apple pie filling (homemade or store-bought)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Pastry cutter or food processor
- Rolling pin
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Wire cooling rack
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
- Swap apple pie filling for peach or cherry.
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a twist.
- Store-bought pie crust works perfectly if you’re short on time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Pie Dough
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, mixing until dough just comes together. Divide in half, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
- Assemble the Base
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one portion of dough to fit the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan. Lay it in the pan.
- Add the Filling
- Spread apple pie filling evenly over the crust.
- Top with the Second Crust
- Roll out remaining dough and place it over the filling. Seal edges by pressing gently.
- Bake
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool completely before glazing.
- Make the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, butter, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Drizzle over cooled slices.
What to Serve With These Apple Slices
- Hot coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
- Vanilla ice cream for a dessert plate.
- A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar right before serving for extra flavor.
Tips for Perfect Apple Slices
- Chill your dough for maximum flakiness.
- Let them cool before glazing—otherwise the glaze will melt in.
- Cut with a sharp knife for clean edges.
Storage Instructions
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freeze (unglazed) for up to 3 months; thaw and glaze before serving.
FAQ
Can I use puff pastry instead of pie dough?
Yes! It will be flakier but equally delicious.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust.
Can I halve the recipe?
Yes, use an 8×8-inch pan and adjust baking time slightly.
Conclusion
These Chicago-style bakery apple slices are proof you don’t have to live in Chicago to enjoy its sweetest traditions. Easy enough for a weekend bake, impressive enough for guests, and absolutely guaranteed to make your kitchen smell heavenly.
More Recipes with Apples
- Classic Apple Crisp
- Rustic Apple Galette
- Cinnamon-Sugar Apple Donuts
📌 Tried it? Tag your photos on Pinterest so we can see your beautiful bakes!
Nutritional Information (per slice): ~285 calories, 14g fat, 38g carbs, 3g protein
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