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Instructions: How to Make Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices
1. Prepare the Pastry Crust
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and cut them into the flour using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter.
- Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to come together. Be careful not to overwork it.
- Once the dough has formed, divide it into two equal portions. Flatten each into a disk, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Make the Apple Filling
- While the dough is chilling, prepare the apple filling. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are well-coated.
- Set the mixture aside to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Roll Out the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough into a rectangle large enough to fit the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Gently transfer the rolled-out dough to the pan and press it into the bottom to form the base.
4. Add the Apple Filling
- Pour the prepared apple mixture over the dough, spreading it evenly.
5. Add the Top Layer of Dough
- Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the apple filling, pinching the edges of the top and bottom crusts together to seal them.
- Use a sharp knife to cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape as the pastry bakes.
6. Bake the Apple Slices
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
7. Drizzle with Glaze
- While the apple slices are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl to make the glaze.
- Once the apple slices have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top.
8. Slice and Serve
- Cut the apple slices into squares or rectangles and serve them warm or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices
- Use Tart Apples: Granny Smith apples are a great choice because their tartness balances the sweetness of the filling and prevents it from becoming too sugary.
- Chill the Dough: Make sure to chill the dough before rolling it out. This helps keep the butter firm, which results in a flaky, tender crust.
- Add Extra Spice: If you like a stronger spice flavor, add a pinch of cloves or allspice to the apple filling for an extra layer of warmth.
- Make It Ahead: These apple slices can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for a few days. They’re even better the next day!
Conclusion
Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Slices are the perfect dessert to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea, or as a sweet treat at your next family gathering. With their flaky crust, tender apple filling, and glossy glaze, they offer the perfect combination of textures and flavors. This simple yet delicious recipe will bring the taste of a bakery into your kitchen, making every bite feel like a special occasion. Try them today, and let these apple slices become your new favorite treat!
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