Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices

 Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

In a large bowl, whisk together  flour,  sugar, and salt. Add cubed cold  butter and cut in with a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with 5 tablespoons cold water. Gradually stir into the flour mixture until a dough begins to form, adding additional water 1 teaspoon at a time if needed. Divide dough into two equal portions, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

2. Preheat Oven & Prep Pan

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

3. Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, toss apple slices with both sugars, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until evenly coated.

4. Assemble the Apple Slices

On a lightly floured surface, roll one portion of dough into a rectangle large enough to cover the bottom and sides of your prepared dish. Press gently into place. Spread the apple filling evenly over the crust and drizzle with melted butter.

Roll the second portion of dough to fit the top. Place over apples, seal the edges, and cut a few small slits in the top to vent steam.

5. Bake

Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden and the apples are tender. If the edges brown too quickly, cover lightly with foil.

6. Prepare the Glaze

While the pastry cools slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and vanilla until smooth. Add additional milk as needed to reach a drizzling consistency.

7. Finish and Serve

Drizzle glaze over the warm pastry. Let set for about 10 minutes, then cut into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

 Tips for Success

• Apple Variety: Use a mix of tart (Granny Smith) and sweet (Honeycrisp, Fuji) apples for balanced flavor.

• Keep It Cold: Handle the dough as little as possible and keep ingredients cold for the flakiest crust.

• Storage: Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Enjoy this taste of nostalgic bakery goodness—perfect with coffee in the morning or as a sweet ending to any meal.