Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices

• Crust and Topping:
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar
  • 4 tablespoons cold water
• Apple Filling:
  • 8-10 medium apples (a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works well), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Glaze:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Kitchen Equipment Needed

For this recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Large mixing bowl
• Pastry cutter or food processor
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet (preferably with a lip)
• Parchment paper
• Knife or apple slicer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl for glaze
• Whisk

Instructions for Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices

Step 1: Make the Crust

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Add in the cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a small bowl, beat the eggs and vinegar together. Stir into the flour mixture with the cold water until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough in half, wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In another bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Toss well until the apples are evenly coated.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough and Assemble

1. Take one portion of the chilled dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to fit your baking sheet. Gently transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet and press it to the edges.
2. Spread the apple filling evenly over the dough layer.
3. Roll out the second portion of dough and place it over the apple filling, covering it completely. Seal the edges by pinching the bottom and top crusts together.
4. Use a fork or knife to poke a few holes in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake the apple slices for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
2. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the apple slices while they’re still slightly warm. This helps the glaze set beautifully on top.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

1. Once cooled and set, cut the slab into slices and serve!

Tips and Tricks

• Choosing the Apples: A combination of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, brings a balanced flavor to the filling.
• Keeping the Dough Cold: Chilling the dough helps ensure a flaky crust, so avoid overworking it and make sure to keep the butter cold.
• Customizable Glaze: Add a bit of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the glaze for extra flavor.