CHICAGO-STYLE BAKERY APPLE SLICES

Instructions

Preparing the Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups flour, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Making the Filling:

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, 1 cup sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, 2 tablespoons flour, water, and vanilla extract. Toss to coat the apples evenly.
2. Spread the apple mixture over the baked crust.

Preparing the Topping:

1. In the same bowl (no need to wash it), combine 1 cup flour, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cut in the cold butter and vanilla extract until the mixture is crumbly.
2. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the apple layer.

Baking:

1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Glazing:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk or powdered sugar, as needed. It should be pourable but not too thin.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled apple slices.
3. Allow the glaze to set before slicing into squares or bars.

Enjoy your Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices as a delicious treat that brings the comfort of apple pie in a form that’s easy to share and enjoy. Perfect for any occasion or simply as a way to treat yourself!