Save this recipe on:

Chicago Style Bakery Apple Slices are the kind of old-school dessert you’d spot in a neighborhood bakery window—golden, flaky layers stacked high with tender cinnamon apples and finished with a sweet vanilla glaze that drips down the sides. Each bite delivers that perfect contrast: crisp pastry on top, soft apple filling in the center, and a buttery base that holds it all together.

This Midwestern classic is a cross between apple pie and a slab pastry, making it ideal for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re planning a fall gathering, a holiday dessert table, or simply craving something cozy with your afternoon coffee, these apple slices bring big bakery flavor right into your home kitchen.

---

What Makes Chicago Style Bakery Apple Slices So Special?

Unlike a traditional apple pie, Chicago Style Bakery Apple Slices are baked in a sheet pan and cut into generous squares. The pastry layers are thinner and flakier, while the apple filling is spread evenly throughout, creating a balanced bite every time.

They’re easier to serve than pie, perfect for potlucks, and sturdy enough to pack for gatherings. Plus, that simple powdered sugar glaze on top gives them their signature bakery-style finish.

---

Ingredients for the Chicago Style Bakery Apple Slices

Puff Pastry or Pie Dough
Creates those flaky, buttery layers that define this dessert. It holds the filling while baking into crisp perfection.

Apples
The heart of the recipe. Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp provide structure and a balance of sweet-tart flavor.

Granulated Sugar
Sweetens the apples and helps draw out their natural juices while baking.

Brown Sugar
Adds depth and a light caramel note to the filling.

Ground Cinnamon
Brings warmth and that classic bakery aroma.

Nutmeg
Enhances the cinnamon with subtle spice.

Cornstarch
Thickens the apple filling so the slices hold their shape.

Butter
Adds richness and helps the pastry bake up golden.

Vanilla Extract
Rounds out the glaze and enhances the apple flavor.

Powdered Sugar
Forms the smooth, sweet glaze on top.

Milk
Thins the glaze to a drizzle-friendly consistency.

---

How To Make the Chicago Style Bakery Apple Slices

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Toss them with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Let them sit for about 10 minutes so the flavors blend and juices begin to release.

Step 2: Roll the Bottom Layer

Roll out one sheet of puff pastry or pie dough to fit a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Press it gently into the corners, trimming excess if needed.

Step 3: Add the Apple Filling

Spread the apple mixture evenly over the bottom layer. Dot with small pieces of butter to enrich the filling as it bakes.

Step 4: Top with Second Layer

Roll out the second sheet of dough and carefully place it over the apples. Seal the edges and cut small slits in the top to allow steam to escape.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake at 375°F for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Step 6: Glaze and Cool

Whisk powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Drizzle over slightly cooled pastry. Allow the slices to cool completely before cutting into squares.

---

Serving and Storing Chicago Style Bakery Apple Slices

Serve these slices slightly warm or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

To store, cover tightly and keep at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked texture.

---

What to Serve With Chicago Style Bakery Apple Slices?

Vanilla Ice Cream

The cold creaminess melts into the warm apples for a classic pairing.

Fresh Whipped Cream

Light and airy, it balances the rich pastry.

Caramel Drizzle

Adds extra indulgence and enhances the apple flavor.

Hot Coffee

A bold cup of coffee makes this dessert feel like a true bakery treat.

Spiced Chai Latte

Warm spices complement the cinnamon filling beautifully.

---

Want More Apple Dessert Ideas?

If you love these Chicago Style Bakery Apple Slices, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Apple Fritter Bread for a cinnamon-swirled loaf that tastes just like a bakery classic.
https://savorqueen.com/apple-fritter-bread-recipe/

• Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake if you enjoy gooey caramel paired with tender apples.
https://savorqueen.com/caramel-apple-upside-down-cake/

• Apple Enchiladas for a fun twist on apple pie flavors wrapped in tortillas.
https://savorqueen.com/apple-enchiladas/

• Cinnamon Roll Cake when you’re craving warm spice in a soft, sliceable dessert.
https://savorqueen.com/cinnamon-roll-cake/

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to bake it again.

Tried adding chopped pecans or a caramel swirl? I’d love to hear how it turned out—share your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on Savor Queen over on Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/mydelicioushomerecipes/

Print

Save this recipe on: