Description
Embrace the warmth of homemade treats with this delightful recipe for Chicago-Style Bakery Apple Squares. Renowned for its flaky crust and rich apple filling, capped with a luscious glaze, this dessert captures the essence of a classic American bakery item. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy piece at home, these apple squares bring a slice of Chicago’s culinary charm to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups unsalted butter, chilled (2 1/2 sticks)
- 1/2 cup ice water, plus more as needed
- 4 cups apple pie filling (canned or homemade)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
Instructions
- Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Grate chilled butter over the mixture, using a cheese grater, and stir occasionally. Alternatively, you can cut the butter into small pieces and blend using a pastry cutter. Gradually add ice water and stir until the dough comes together but is not sticky.
- Knead the dough gently on a floured surface and split into two equal parts. Flatten into rectangles, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll out one dough rectangle on a floured surface and fit into a 9×13-inch jelly roll pan. Spread the apple pie filling evenly over the crust. Roll the second dough rectangle, place it over the filling, and pinch the edges together. Cut vents in the top crust.
- Bake in a preheated 400°F oven until golden brown, about 40 minutes. Let it cool on a wire rack.
- Combine powdered sugar, softened butter, vanilla, and milk to make the glaze. Spread over the cooled crust and allow to set.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes