Name: Easy Chicago-Style Apple Slices
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1 large egg; 2 to 4 tablespoons cold water; 6 cups apples, thinly sliced (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp recommended); 3/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling); 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 egg (for egg wash)

There’s something nostalgic about the gooey, cinnamon-spiced layers of apple filling tucked inside flaky, buttery crusts. Chicago-style apple slices are a Midwestern classic that’s half pie, half slab, and 100% irresistible. Baked in a sheet pan and cut into bars, they deliver that comforting homemade pie feeling without needing to fuss over a fancy lattice top or perfectly crimped edges.

These bars are ideal for feeding a crowd. Whether it’s a fall potluck, a casual holiday get-together, or a spontaneous weeknight craving, this easy dessert comes together with simple ingredients and bold apple flavor. The balance of tender apples, a kiss of lemon juice, and a generous cinnamon-sugar blend make each bite unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicago-Style Apple Slices Recipe

Chicago-style apple slices take the best parts of apple pie and make it more snackable. No forks or plates required. They’re sturdy enough to pack for a picnic but still soft, tender, and warm from the oven. The crust is flaky yet strong, the filling is saucy but not soggy, and they store well for days.

Best of all, you don’t need to peel a mountain of apples. With minimal prep and straightforward steps, you’ll have bakery-style slices without any bakery stress.

What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

For the perfect filling, go with a combination of tart and sweet apples. Granny Smiths hold their shape and add tang, while Honeycrisp or Fuji add natural sweetness and juiciness. Mixing varieties brings depth to the filling and keeps it from becoming overly soft or bland. If you’re in a pinch, even store-brand baking apples work fine—just avoid anything mealy like Red Delicious.

Ingredients for the Easy Chicago-Style Apple Slices

This recipe uses pantry staples and a few fresh apples, making it an easy go-to for weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Here’s a breakdown of what you need and why it matters:

Flour – All-purpose flour gives the crust its structure and allows it to bake up golden and crisp.

Salt – Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors, especially the apple and butter.

Sugar – Used in the dough and the filling, it sweetens and balances the tartness of the apples.

Butter – Cold, unsalted butter is key for that flaky crust. It melts during baking, creating steam pockets that make everything light.

Eggs – One egg in the dough helps bind and enrich it; another is used for an egg wash for shine.

Apples – The star of the show. Choose firm, flavorful varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.

Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth to the apple filling.

Lemon Juice – Prevents the apples from browning and adds brightness to the filling.

Cornstarch – Helps thicken the filling so your slices stay neat and not runny.

Vanilla Extract – A little splash enhances the dessert with mellow, sweet aroma.

How To Make the Easy Chicago-Style Apple Slices

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add a beaten egg and just enough cold water to bring the dough together. Divide in half, flatten into disks, and chill for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

Peel and slice your apples thinly. Toss them with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and cornstarch until evenly coated. Let it sit while you roll out the dough.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Roll out one dough disk to fit a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Press it into the bottom and slightly up the sides. Pour the apple mixture over and spread it out evenly. Roll out the second dough disk and place it on top. Pinch the edges to seal, then brush the top with beaten egg.

Step 4: Bake

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling bubbles through the edges. Cool completely before slicing into bars.

How to Store and Serve Your Apple Slices

These apple slices serve around 12 people, depending on how generous you cut the bars. Once cooled, they can be kept at room temperature for up to two days, or stored in the fridge for five days. They also freeze beautifully. Just wrap tightly and thaw at room temperature.

For serving, they’re delicious both warm and cold. You can microwave a slice for a few seconds if you’re in the mood for that fresh-from-the-oven warmth.

What to Serve With Easy Chicago-Style Apple Slices?

Whipped Cream

A generous dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the rich, buttery crust.

Vanilla Ice Cream

You can’t go wrong with classic vanilla ice cream melting over a warm slice.

Salted Caramel Drizzle

Add a decadent twist with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce right before serving.

Cheddar Cheese

A slice of sharp cheddar on warm apple slices brings a sweet-savory combo that’s surprisingly amazing.

Hot Apple Cider

Keep it seasonal with a mug of warm spiced cider to sip alongside your dessert.

Coffee

Pair with your favorite dark roast or cinnamon-spiced brew for a comforting afternoon snack.

Toasted Pecans

Sprinkle some chopped toasted pecans on top for a little crunch and nutty richness.

Want More Dessert Ideas?

If you loved these Easy Chicago-Style Apple Slices, you might enjoy more cozy treats like these:

Old Time Oven Peach Cobbler if you’re craving more fruit-forward comfort food.
Cherry-Topped Coconut Macaroons for a chewy, coconutty bite-size dessert.
Ooey Gooey Bars when you need rich, buttery indulgence.
Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes for a creamy twist on a breakfast favorite.
Best Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries if you want no-bake ease with fresh flavor.