Welcome to the world of Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices—a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of homemade apple pie with the convenience and appeal of bakery-style slices. If you’re craving a classic dessert that will fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of apples and spices, then this recipe is your perfect match. Let’s dive into how you can create this mouthwatering treat that promises to become a family favorite!
The Allure of Chicago-Style Apple Slices
There’s something uniquely comforting about apple pie. It’s a dessert that evokes nostalgia and warmth with every bite. Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices take that comforting classic and transform it into a delightful, sliceable treat that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cup of tea. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a new recipe to try, or simply craving a slice of sweet, spiced apple goodness, this recipe has got you covered.
Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Servings: 12-16
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pie Dough:
- •4 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your pie dough, providing the structure and texture.
- •1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness to the dough.
- •1 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the dough’s overall taste.
- •1 1/4 cups unsalted butter, chilled (2 1/2 sticks): Provides the rich, flaky texture essential for a perfect pie crust.
- •1/2 cup ice water, plus more as needed: Helps bind the dough together without making it too sticky.
For the Filling:
- •4 cups apple pie filling: Store-bought apple pie filling works perfectly, offering convenience without sacrificing flavor.
For the Glaze:
- •1 cup powdered sugar: Creates a sweet and smooth glaze to top your apple slices.
- •2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and helps the glaze spread evenly.
- •1 teaspoon vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor of the glaze.
- •2 tablespoons whole milk: Adjusts the consistency of the glaze for easy spreading.
- Preparation Steps
Crafting the Perfect Pie Dough
1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. This will be the base of your pie dough, so make sure the ingredients are well combined.
2. Incorporate the Butter: Take one stick of chilled butter from the fridge and grate it directly into the flour mixture. If the butter becomes too soft, pop it in the freezer for a few minutes to firm it up before continuing. Repeat this process with the remaining butter. The goal is to have small, pea-sized pieces of butter throughout the flour mixture, which will create a flaky texture in the baked crust.
•Alternative Method: If grating isn’t your thing, you can cut the butter into cubes and use a pastry blender or two forks to cut it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Form the Dough: Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in 1/2 cup of ice water. Use a fork to gently toss the mixture until it starts to come together. Gradually add more ice water, 2 tablespoons at a time, until the dough holds together without being sticky. The dough should have visible pieces of butter for that perfect flakiness.
4. Chill the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it just enough to bring it together. Divide the dough into two halves and flatten each into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Wrap each rectangle in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting period is crucial for the dough’s texture.
Assembling the Apple Slices
1. Preheat Your Oven: When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch jelly roll pan by lightly dusting it with flour.
2. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out one rectangle of dough until it’s roughly the size of your jelly roll pan. Carefully press the dough into the bottom of the pan, making sure it covers the entire surface.
3. Add the Filling: Spread 4 cups of apple pie filling evenly over the prepared pie dough. The filling can be store-bought, which simplifies the process and ensures a consistently delicious result.
4. Top with Dough: Roll out the second rectangle of dough to match the size of the pan. Gently lay this dough over the apple filling. For easier handling, you can roll the dough around a rolling pin before transferring it. Pinch the edges of the dough together, but don’t worry about sealing it completely. This rustic look adds to the homemade charm.
5. Vent and Bake: Slice a few vents into the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
Creating the Perfect Glaze
1. Mix the Glaze: In a medium bowl, beat together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of softened butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla, and 2 tablespoons of whole milk until smooth. The glaze should be thick yet spreadable.
2. Glaze the Slices: Once the pie has cooled, evenly spread the glaze over the top of the crust. Allow the glaze to set and harden before slicing the pie into squares.
Enjoying Your Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices
Now that your Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices are ready, it’s time to indulge! These slices are perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying as a sweet treat throughout the week. The combination of a flaky, buttery crust, spiced apple filling, and sweet glaze creates a dessert that’s sure to please.
Serve these slices warm or at room temperature, and watch as they become the highlight of any gathering. Whether paired with a cup of coffee, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or simply enjoyed on their own, these apple slices offer a taste of nostalgia and comfort in every bite.
FAQs
Q: Can I use homemade apple pie filling instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Homemade apple pie filling adds a personal touch and allows you to adjust the sweetness and spice levels to your liking.
Q: How should I store leftover apple slices?
A: Store leftover slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
Final Thoughts
Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices are more than just a dessert; they’re a slice of comfort and tradition. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can bring a touch of bakery magic into your own kitchen. Perfect for any occasion or just because, these apple slices are sure to become a beloved favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Don’t wait—give this recipe a try and experience the joy of baking homemade apple slices that taste just like your favorite bakery’s best!
