Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices

The Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Chicago-style bakery apple slices:

For the Crust:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1/2 cup shortening, chilled
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup cold water (more if needed)

For the Apple Filling:

• 8-10 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Directions

Follow these steps to make your own Chicago-style bakery apple slices:

1. Prepare the Crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the butter and shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg and mix just until combined. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disk, and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling: While the dough is chilling, prepare the apples. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, lemon juice, and flour. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Assemble the Slices: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough into a large rectangle (about 12×17 inches). Fit the dough into a 10×15 inch baking pan, allowing the excess to hang over the edges. Add the apple filling, spreading it evenly across the dough. Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the apples. Trim the edges, and crimp or fold to seal. Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
4. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling. If the crust browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
5. Add the Glaze: Once the apple slices are out of the oven, let them cool for about 15 minutes. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the warm apple slices. Allow the glaze to set before cutting into squares or slices.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make these bakery-style apple slices, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• Large mixing bowl
• Pastry blender or food processor (for the crust)
• Rolling pin
• 10×15 inch baking pan
• Paring knife (for slicing apples)
• Pastry brush (optional, for brushing excess flour off the dough)
• Whisk (for the glaze)

Tips, Shortcuts, and Variations

While the traditional Chicago-style bakery apple slices are delicious as-is, there are a few ways to make this recipe your own:

• Add a Streusel Topping: For an extra layer of texture and flavor, sprinkle a streusel topping over the top crust before baking. Mix together 1/2 cup flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 1/4 cup melted butter, then sprinkle over the crust.
• Caramel Apple Slices: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple filling before adding the top crust for a rich, gooey twist.
• Make-Ahead Tip: The dough can be made and refrigerated up to 2 days in advance, or frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
• Flavor Twist: Add a splash of vanilla or almond extract to the apple filling for a unique flavor profile.

How to Store Leftovers

Chicago-style bakery apple slices are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to crisp up the crust before serving.
• Freezing: You can freeze the baked slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven before serving.

Food and Drink Pairings

These apple slices are a versatile dessert that pairs well with a variety of beverages:

• Drink Pairings: Serve with a hot cup of coffee or tea, or a chilled glass of apple cider for a comforting treat. For a more decadent pairing, try a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side.
• Side Suggestions: Enjoy these slices on their own, or serve them alongside a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgence.