Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices – Flaky, Gooey & Glazed to Perfection

Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices are the kind of dessert that stops you in your tracks. Thick layers of flaky, buttery pie crust sandwich a sweet, cinnamon-kissed apple filling — all finished with a rich vanilla glaze that melts into every crack and crevice. These iconic bakery-style slices are part pie, part pastry, and completely irresistible.

Even if you’ve never stepped foot in a Chicago bakery, this recipe brings that indulgent experience right into your own kitchen. Each square is soft, gooey, flaky, and glossy all at once — the kind of dessert that disappears within minutes at potlucks, holidays, and family dinners.

Why You’ll Love These Chicago-Style Apple Slices

✔️ Flaky, buttery homemade pie crust
✔️ Thick apple filling in every bite
✔️ Finished with a rich bakery-style glaze
✔️ Easy to slice, serve, and share
✔️ Perfect for holidays, parties, and bake sales

Ingredients & Their Purpose

For the Pie Dough

All-purpose flour (4 cups) — Creates the structure of the flaky crust.
Granulated sugar (1 tbsp) — Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the butter.
Salt (1 tsp) — Enhances flavor throughout the dough.
Unsalted butter (1¼ cups, chilled) — The key to a tender, flaky crust.
Ice water (½ cup + more as needed) — Brings the dough together without melting the butter.

For the Filling

Apple pie filling (4 cups) — Sweet, spiced apples create that classic bakery center.

For the Glaze

Powdered sugar (1 cup) — Forms the sweet glaze base.
Unsalted butter (2 tbsp, softened) — Adds richness and shine.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp) — Enhances warmth and aroma.
Whole milk (2 tbsp) — Thins glaze to the perfect spreadable consistency.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Pie Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
Grate cold butter into the flour mixture, stirring gently between additions.
Create a well in the center and add ice water. Toss gently with a fork until the dough comes together.
Turn onto a floured surface and gently knead just until combined.
Divide dough in half, flatten into rectangles, wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Assemble the Slices

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment or lightly grease.
Roll out one rectangle of dough and press into the bottom of the pan.
Spread apple filling evenly over the crust.
Roll out the second dough rectangle and place on top.
Crimp edges lightly and cut small vents on top.
Bake for 40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool completely before glazing.

Prepare the Glaze

Beat powdered sugar, butter, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
Spread evenly over cooled crust.
Let set before slicing.

Pro Tips for Bakery-Perfect Results

Use very cold butter for maximum flakiness.
Don’t overwork the dough — visible butter pieces are good!
Let slices cool fully so the glaze sets beautifully.
Use parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner cuts.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream 🍨
Drizzle extra glaze or caramel on top
Dust lightly with cinnamon sugar
Enjoy with coffee or hot cider

Final Thoughts

Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices are the perfect combination of flaky pastry, gooey apple filling, and sweet vanilla glaze. They’re nostalgic, indulgent, and wonderfully simple — the kind of dessert that makes people close their eyes on the first bite.

If you love classic comfort desserts with bakery-style charm, this recipe belongs in your collection. One pan, a few simple ingredients, and a whole lot of joy — that’s what makes these apple slices truly unforgettable.