Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices – A Recipe You Can’t Miss 😋

If you’ve ever wandered into a classic Chicago bakery, one treat that always catches your eye is the Chicago-style apple slice. Bursting with sweet-tart apple filling, soft yet slightly crisp pastry, and a hint of cinnamon spice, these slices are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. The best part? You can recreate them at home with this simple, step-by-step guide.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp salt
1 large egg
2–3 tbsp cold water

For the Apple Filling:

4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
½ cup brown sugar, packed
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tsp cornstarch

For the Topping:

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
2 tbsp coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
Add the cold, cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Beat the egg lightly and add it to the mixture. Stir gently.
Add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together but is not sticky.
Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Tip: Chilling the dough ensures a tender, flaky texture when baked.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

Peel, core, and slice the apples thinly.
In a medium saucepan, combine the apple slices, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the apples soften slightly and the mixture thickens (about 5–7 minutes).
Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.