Chicago Style Bakery Apple Slices

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There’s something about a glossy, sugary apple slice with a soft cookie-like crust that instantly brings back the feeling of walking into a neighborhood bakery. Chicago Style Bakery Apple Slices are not your average dessert bar—they’re part pie, part cookie, and all nostalgia. These sweet squares are often tucked into a sheet pan, then sliced into generous portions and wrapped in wax paper by local bakeries in the Midwest.

Made with a tender, buttery crust and sweet cinnamon apples, these slices are topped with a simple glaze that finishes them off with just the right touch of sweetness. Whether you’re bringing dessert to a family gathering or just want a bite of something comforting, this classic Midwest treat is a crowd-pleaser every time.

Why You’ll Love This Chicago Style Bakery Apple Slices Recipe

This dessert is simple, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make in big batches. The crust is soft and slightly chewy, giving each bite a pastry-like richness that complements the tender apple filling. The apple layer itself is fragrant with cinnamon and perfectly juicy without being runny. It’s also easy to customize by adding a little nutmeg or cloves if you’re feeling adventurous. Plus, the glaze on top hardens slightly to give that bakery-style finish everyone loves.

Can I Use Store-Bought Pie Crust Instead of Homemade?

While this recipe calls for a homemade crust, you can substitute it with refrigerated pie crust or even puff pastry in a pinch. However, keep in mind that traditional Chicago bakery-style apple slices have a unique soft crust that’s more cookie-like than flaky, which might be missed if you go the shortcut route. For the most authentic taste and texture, try the homemade version at least once—you won’t regret it.

Ingredients for the Chicago Style Bakery Apple Slices

The beauty of this dessert lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a big role in creating the texture and flavor that makes these apple slices irresistible.

• All-purpose flour
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Apples (Granny Smith preferred)
• Cinnamon
• Powdered sugar
• Milk

Flour forms the base of the crust and gives structure, while butter keeps it rich and tender. Sugar sweetens both the crust and apple filling, and eggs help bind everything together. Vanilla adds warmth, and baking powder gives the crust a little lift. Tart apples like Granny Smith balance the sweetness and keep the filling from getting mushy. Cinnamon adds cozy spice, and a quick glaze made from powdered sugar and milk pulls it all together.

How To Make the Chicago Style Bakery Apple Slices

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs and vanilla, mixing until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt, then gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and thinly slice your Granny Smith apples. Toss them in a bowl with sugar and cinnamon until evenly coated. Let them sit while you work on the dough.

Step 3: Assemble in the Pan

Divide the dough in half. Press one half into the bottom of a greased sheet pan. Arrange the cinnamon apples evenly over the crust. Flatten the remaining dough as best you can and lay it over the apples. It doesn’t have to be perfect—a few gaps are okay.

Step 4: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes or until the top is golden and the apples are soft. Let the pan cool completely before glazing.

Step 5: Glaze

Mix powdered sugar with a splash of milk until you have a thick but pourable glaze. Drizzle over the cooled apple slices. Let set before cutting into squares.

How to Serve and Store Chicago Style Bakery Apple Slices

These apple slices are best served at room temperature, but they’re also fantastic slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Each batch serves around 12 to 16 people, depending on how generously you slice them.

For storing, keep the slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for a month. To reheat, just pop them in the oven or microwave until warm.

What to Serve With Chicago Style Apple Slices?

Classic Vanilla Ice Cream

Cold, creamy vanilla perfectly contrasts with the warm cinnamon apple filling.

Fresh Whipped Cream

A light and airy topping that won’t overpower the sweet apple center.

Salted Caramel Drizzle

Add a modern twist with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce on top.

Hot Coffee or Chai Tea

The bold flavors in coffee or spiced tea pair beautifully with the cozy apple spices.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Yes, it sounds unusual, but apple pie and sharp cheddar is a beloved combo for good reason.

Candied Pecans

For a little crunch and nutty sweetness.

Spiced Apple Cider

Lean into fall flavors with a mug of warm cider.

Warm Custard

Especially delightful if serving this as a holiday dessert.

Want More Dessert Ideas with a Twist?

If these Chicago Style Bakery Apple Slices hit the sweet spot, you might enjoy these other creative desserts from Mia Plates:

• Ooey Gooey Bars for rich, buttery indulgence.
• Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes that combine breakfast flavors with dessert flair.
• Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler for a fruity throwback treat.
• Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons for a tropical chewy bite.
• Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars for a creative, crowd-friendly option.

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

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you tweak the spices? Go bold with the glaze? Maybe snuck in a few extra apples? I’d love to hear how you made it your own.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and sweet bakes on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and find your next kitchen favorite!

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