Apple Slices

Chicago-style bakery apple slices are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of apple filling with a flaky crust. These Apple Slices are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet at home. The unique feature of this recipe is its layered approach, offering a wonderful texture and flavor balance that will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these apple slices can be made by bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve them warm with ice cream or enjoy them cold as a snack, making them suitable for any time of day.
• Batch Baking: Make a large batch and share with friends or freeze some for later; they maintain their flavor well!
• Customizable Filling: While the recipe uses apple filling, you can easily swap in other fruit fillings for variety.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these delicious apple slices, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Pastry cutter
• Measuring cups
• Jelly roll pan (9 x 13)
• Offset spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl helps you combine ingredients without making a mess.
• Pastry cutter: This tool allows you to mix fats into flour evenly, ensuring a tender crust.
• Jelly roll pan: The perfect size for baking these apple slices evenly across the entire surface.

Ingredients

To create your delicious Apple Slices, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt (I use Diamond kosher salt, even for baking)
• ¾ cup lard (preferably non-hydrogenated, unprocessed)
• ½ cup water
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 32 ounces apple dessert filling/topping
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons melted or softened butter
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons whole milk (more to thin if necessary)

How to Make Apple Slices

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
2. Add lard and cut it in using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a measuring cup, mix water, egg yolks, and lemon juice together. Pour this mixture over the flour mixture.
4. Blend gently with a fork until combined; expect a very moist dough.

Step 2: Assemble the Layers

1. Divide dough in half. Roll or pat one half directly into the jelly roll pan, bringing it slightly up the edges.
2. Spread the apple filling evenly over the dough layer.
3. Roll out the remaining dough to fit on top of the filling.
4. Carefully flip it over onto the apples and press or pinch edges together—don’t worry about sealing completely.
5. Cut several slits in the top dough for steam vents.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

1. Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC).
2. Bake for 40 minutes until crust is nicely browned; rotate pan halfway through.
3. Remove from oven and let cool on a rack.

Step 4: Create the Glaze

1. In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
2. Adjust consistency by adding more milk if needed.
3. Spread glaze over the top of cooled crust using an offset spatula.
4. Allow glaze to set before cutting into 2- or 3-inch squares.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Apple Slices!

How to Serve Apple Slices

Apple slices are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience with these sweet treats.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic combination of warm apple slices and cold vanilla ice cream creates a delicious contrast.
• Cinnamon Ice Cream: Add a twist by serving your apple slices with cinnamon-flavored ice cream for extra warmth and spice.

As a Breakfast Treat

• Drizzle with Honey: Serve warm apple slices drizzled with honey for a simple yet satisfying breakfast option.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer apple slices with yogurt and granola for a nutritious and filling breakfast parfait.

Paired with Cheese

• Sharp Cheddar: The bold flavor of sharp cheddar complements the sweetness of apple slices wonderfully.
• Brie: Soft brie on top of warm apple slices offers a creamy texture that is indulgent and tasty.

With Caramel Sauce

• Drizzle Caramel: A drizzle of rich caramel sauce over the apple slices adds extra sweetness, making it perfect for special occasions.

How to Perfect Apple Slices

Perfecting your apple slices elevates this simple dish to something special. Here are some tips to ensure you get the best results.

• Choose the Right Apples: Use tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet varieties like Honeycrisp for balanced flavor.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix until just combined to keep the crust tender. Overworking can lead to tough bars.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your oven; baking times may vary. Look for a golden-brown crust as an indicator.
• Let Cool Completely: Allowing the apple slices to cool before cutting helps maintain their shape and makes slicing easier.
• Adjust Glaze Consistency: If your glaze is too thick, add more milk gradually until you achieve the desired pourable consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Slices

Apple slices can be complemented by a variety of side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread pairs well, soaking up any excess glaze while adding texture.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad provides a nice contrast with crunchy greens and tangy dressing, balancing out the sweetness of the dessert.
3. Roasted Nuts: Serve roasted almonds or walnuts on the side for added crunch and flavor that pairs beautifully with apples.
4. Spiced Tea: A cup of spiced tea or chai adds warmth and aromatic notes that complement the flavors in the apple slices.
5. Chilled Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad gives a light option alongside rich apple slices, enhancing the fruity theme.
6. Savory Cheese Board: Incorporating various cheeses alongside your dessert not only offers variety but also contrasts sweet and savory flavors effectively.
7. Vanilla Pudding: A small serving of vanilla pudding can enhance each bite, providing creaminess that complements the apples nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making apple slices can be fun, but small mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong flour: Always use all-purpose flour. Avoid bread or cake flour as they will change the texture of your crust.
• Overworking the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough crusts. Handle the dough gently until just combined for a flaky texture.
• Ignoring baking times: Keep an eye on your apple slices while baking. Ovens can vary, so check for a golden-brown color rather than relying solely on time.
• Not allowing cooling time: Cutting into warm apple slices can make it messy. Let them cool completely to set properly before slicing.
• Skipping the glaze: The glaze adds flavor and moisture. Don’t skip it; it enhances the overall taste of your apple slices.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Apple Slices

• Place in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Slices

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat with a lid. Heat gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making apple slices that might help you out!

How do I know when my apple slices are done?

The crust should be golden brown and the filling bubbling slightly. This usually takes around 40 minutes at 400°F (205°C).

Can I use other fruits for apple slices?

Yes! You can use pears, peaches, or berries as alternatives for filling in your apple slices recipe.

What is the best way to serve apple slices?

Apple slices are delicious served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.

Are there variations for apple filling?

Absolutely! You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or mix in nuts and raisins to enhance the flavor of your apple filling.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, substitute lard with plant-based butter and omit egg yolks, using a plant-based alternative instead.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Slices are not only delicious but also versatile. They are perfect as a dessert or snack and can be customized with various fillings and toppings based on your preference. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—it’s sure to be a hit!