Table of Contents

Introduction

Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices Recipe is a dessert that takes you straight back to the golden days of neighborhood bakeries. With its buttery, flaky crust and spiced apple filling drizzled with a simple vanilla glaze, it’s the kind of treat that feels nostalgic yet timeless. Unlike a traditional apple pie, these slices are baked in a sheet pan, making them perfect for serving a crowd.

I first discovered these apple slices at a small bakery in Chicago, and one bite was enough to understand why they remain such a beloved classic. They’re easier to slice, transport, and serve than pie—ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or even a cozy weekend treat. Much like our Pineapple Juice Cake Recipe or the comforting Blueberry Sour Cream Pound Cake, this dessert balances homemade charm with bakery-level indulgence.

If you’re craving a dessert that combines tradition, flavor, and practicality, these Chicago-style bakery apple slices are sure to become a family favorite.

Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices Recipe

Ingredients

For the Crust:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
2 large eggs
5–6 tablespoons cold water

For the Apple Filling:

8 cups apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (about 6–8 apples)
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions – Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices Recipe

Prepare the Crust
- Mix flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl.
- Cut in the cold butter until crumbly.
- Beat eggs with cold water, then stir into the flour mixture.
- Form dough, divide into two, wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat Oven
- Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Make the Apple Filling
- In a large bowl, toss apples with sugars, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until evenly coated.
Assemble
- Roll out half of the dough and press into the bottom of the pan.
- Spread apple mixture evenly, drizzle with melted butter.
- Roll out remaining dough, place on top, and seal edges. Cut slits in the top crust.
Bake
- Bake 40–45 minutes, until crust is golden and apples are tender.
Glaze
- Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Drizzle over cooled slices.

Tips & Variations

Apple Mix: Use a blend of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for depth of flavor.
Prevent Soggy Bottoms: Blind-bake the crust for 10 minutes before adding filling.
Extra Spice: Add cardamom or ground cloves for a warmer flavor profile.
Make Ahead: Bake a day in advance and glaze before serving.

Storage

Room Temperature: Covered, up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps for 5 days.
Freezer: Wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months.

Time & Yield

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 12

Tools Used

9×13-inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Pastry cutter or fork
Rolling pin
Whisk

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

The Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices Recipe is everything you want in a dessert—flaky, sweet, and comforting. Unlike pies, it’s easy to slice and serve, making it perfect for large gatherings. Like our Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe or hearty Creamy Mushroom Soup, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again.

What makes it truly special is the balance between the buttery crust, tender apples, and simple glaze that ties everything together. It’s nostalgic yet versatile, equally suited for holidays, potlucks, or casual family dinners. Every bite brings the cozy feeling of a bakery-style treat straight from your oven.

For more delicious apple-inspired ideas, explore Delish’s dessert recipes or check out AllRecipes apple desserts. Whether you’re an apple lover or just looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert, this one will quickly become a household favorite.