Chicago Style Bakery Apple Slices

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There’s something deeply nostalgic about biting into a warm square of Chicago Style Bakery Apple Slices. This Midwestern classic layers tender cinnamon-spiced apples between flaky, golden crusts and finishes with a sweet glaze that instantly reminds you of old-school bakeries and weekend coffee cake trays.

Unlike apple pie, which can be more structured and ornate, these apple slices are rustic and generous—made to be shared. You’ll find them in paper-lined bakery boxes across Chicago, especially in Polish or German-inspired shops. But making them at home is easier than you’d think, and nothing beats the aroma of cinnamon and apples filling your kitchen.

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What Kind of Apples Should I Use for Apple Slices?

Go for tart-firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Their texture holds up well in the oven without turning mushy, and the tartness balances the sweet glaze and crust beautifully. If you like a sweeter bite, mix in a few Fuji or Gala apples too.

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Ingredients for the Chicago Style Bakery Apple Slices

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
• 1 egg yolk
• ½ cup whole milk
• 6 large apples (peeled, cored, thinly sliced)
• ¾ cup sugar (for filling)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg white (for brushing crust)
• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)

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How To Make the Chicago Style Bakery Apple Slices

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture is crumbly. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolk and milk together, then add to the flour mix. Stir until dough forms, then divide in two and chill for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

Toss the sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, cornstarch, and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to develop flavor and release juices.

Step 3: Assemble the Slices

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Roll out one half of the chilled dough and press it into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the apple filling evenly over the crust. Roll out the second half and lay it gently over the top. Seal the edges and brush with egg white.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp. Cool completely before glazing.

Step 5: Glaze and Slice

Whisk powdered sugar with milk to form a glaze. Drizzle over the cooled crust and let it set before slicing into generous bakery-style squares.

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Serving and Storing Chicago Style Bakery Apple Slices

Serve your apple slices slightly warm or at room temperature, preferably with a mug of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They make a perfect brunch addition or afternoon pick-me-up.

To store, place slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to refresh that flaky crust.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between these and apple pie?

Apple slices are typically made in a sheet pan and cut into bars, with a top and bottom crust. They’re more portable and usually glazed, unlike traditional apple pie.

Can I freeze apple slices?

Yes! Let them cool completely, then freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic and foil. Reheat from frozen at 325°F until warmed through.

Can I use store-bought crust?

You can, but homemade dough makes all the difference in achieving that true bakery-style flake.

What other fruits work in this?

Cherries or pears make great seasonal swaps. Just adjust sugar slightly depending on the fruit’s sweetness.

Is the glaze optional?

Technically, yes—but it adds that authentic bakery finish. Even a light drizzle goes a long way.

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Want More Apple Dessert Ideas?

If you loved these Chicago Style Apple Slices, don’t miss these cozy apple bakes next:

• Try these Baked Apple Empanadas for a handheld twist with a cinnamon sugar crunch.
• Our Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe is a moist, apple-friendly loaf that tastes like the best fair treat.
• You’ll adore the Pecan Pie Bites if you want to stick with that bakery bite-size theme.
• Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake for a rich, fruity alternative.
• Or browse Nutella French Toast Casserole if brunch-worthy bakes are your thing.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap in a different fruit? Add extra spice? Go light or heavy on the glaze?

I love seeing your twists and tips. Tag me and check out my other sweet treats at Nina Dishes on Pinterest.

Let’s keep baking things better together.

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