Chicago-style bakery apple slices are a classic, nostalgic dessert that was once a staple at many Chicago bakeries. This dessert features a soft, flaky crust with a thick layer of apple filling, topped with a simple glaze. These apple slices are similar to a pie but are made in a large sheet pan and cut into squares, making them perfect for feeding a crowd. The combination of tender apples, buttery crust, and sweet glaze creates a delicious treat that\u2019s perfect for any occasion.<\/p>\n
Why You\u2019ll Love Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices
\nFeeds a Crowd: Made in a large sheet pan, this dessert is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, and holidays.
\nFlaky and Buttery: The crust is tender and buttery, providing the perfect contrast to the sweet apple filling.
\nEasy to Make: With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, this recipe is accessible to all levels of bakers.
\nNostalgic Flavor: If you grew up in Chicago, this dessert will take you back to the days of visiting local bakeries for a sweet treat.
\nIngredientes
\nFor the Crust
\n3 cups all-purpose flour
\n1 tablespoon granulated sugar
\n1 teaspoon salt
\n1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
\n2 large eggs
\n5-6 tablespoons cold water<\/p>\n
For the Apple Filling
\n8 cups apples (about 6-8 apples), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
\n\u00be cup granulated sugar
\n\u00bc cup light brown sugar, packed
\n2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
\n1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
\n\u00bc teaspoon ground nutmeg
\n1 tablespoon lemon juice
\n1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted<\/p>\n
For the Glaze
\n1 cup powdered sugar
\n2-3 tablespoons milk
\n\u00bd teaspoon vanilla extract<\/p>\n
Instrucciones<\/p>\n
<\/center><\/p>\n
Prepare the\u00a0\u00a0Crust<\/span> FAQs Q2: How should I store the apple slices? Q3: Can I use store-bought pie dough? Q4: What should I serve with these apple slices? Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices are a delicious, nostalgic dessert that combines the flavors of a traditional apple pie with the ease of a cobbler or slab pie. The tender, flaky crust and sweet apple filling make this dessert perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply enjoying a sweet treat at home. Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream for the ultimate comforting dessert!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
\nIn a large mixing bowl, whisk together the\u00a0\u00a0flour<\/span>, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and cut it into the flour using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You want to see small pea-sized pieces of butter throughout the dough.In a separate small bowl, beat the eggs and add 5 tablespoons of cold water. Slowly add this egg mixture to the flour and butter mixture, stirring until the dough starts to come together. If the dough is too dry, add an additional tablespoon of cold water, 1 teaspoon at a time, until the dough forms. Divide the dough into two equal portions, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
\nPreheat the Oven
\nPreheat your oven to 375\u00b0F (190\u00b0C). Grease a 9\u00d713-inch baking pan (or a 15\u00d710-inch jelly roll pan for thinner slices) and set it aside.
\nPrepare the Apple Filling
\nIn a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until the apples are evenly coated.
\nRoll Out the Dough
\nOn a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough into a large rectangle, big enough to fit the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Transfer the dough to the pan, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides.
\nAssemble the Apple Slices
\nPour the apple mixture over the dough and spread it out evenly. Drizzle the melted butter over the apples. Roll out the second portion of dough into a rectangle and carefully place it over the apples. Press the edges of the top and bottom crusts together to seal them, then cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
\nBake the Apple Slices
\nBake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender. If the edges of the crust begin to brown too quickly, you can cover them with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time.
\nMake the Glaze
\nWhile the apple slices are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl to make the glaze. If the glaze is too thick, add more milk 1 teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
\nGlaze and Serve
\nOnce the apple slices have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to set for about 10 minutes before cutting the apple slices into squares and serving.
\nTips for the Best Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices
\nUse a Variety of Apples: For the best flavor, use a combination of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
\nChill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps to ensure a flaky, tender crust. Make sure to keep the butter cold while working with the dough.
\nPrevent a Soggy Bottom: To prevent the bottom crust from becoming soggy, you can blind-bake the bottom crust for 10 minutes before adding the apple filling.
\nVariations
\nAdd Streusel: For extra texture, sprinkle a streusel topping (made with butter, flour, brown sugar, and oats) over the apples before adding the top crust.
\nCaramel Apple Slices: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples before adding the top crust for a rich caramel flavor.
\nNutty Apple Slices: Add \u00bd cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple mixture for a crunchy twist.<\/p>\nsee next page<\/h5>\n
\nQ1: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
\nYes, you can make the dough up to 2 days in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until you\u2019re ready to use it. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months.<\/p>\n
\nStore leftover apple slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for about 20 seconds, or warm it in the oven at 350\u00b0F for 5-10 minutes.<\/p>\n
\nYes! If you\u2019re short on time, you can use store-bought pie dough for this recipe. Roll it out to fit your pan just as you would with homemade dough.<\/p>\n
\nThese apple slices are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.<\/p>\n