Apple Strudel Recipe

Apple Strudel is a traditional Austrian pastry that features a flaky, thin crust wrapped around a delicious filling of spiced apples, raisins, and nuts. It’s often served warm, dusted with powdered sugar, and can be accompanied by whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Here’s a classic recipe for making apple strudel at home!

Apple Strudel Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup lukewarm water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter

For the Filling:

• 4-5 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on the sweetness of apples)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (for absorbing moisture)

For Topping:

• 1/4 cup melted butter (for brushing)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions:

1. Make the Dough:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the egg, lukewarm water, and oil or melted butter. Mix until the dough comes together.
   • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), raisins, chopped nuts, and lemon juice. Mix well and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • On a large, floured tablecloth or countertop, roll out the dough as thin as possible (ideally, you should be able to see the surface underneath). Use your hands to stretch it gently if needed.
4. Assemble the Strudel:
   • Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the rolled-out dough to absorb moisture from the filling.
   • Spread the apple filling evenly over the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
   • Using the cloth, carefully roll the strudel away from you, tucking in the edges as you go to enclose the filling.
5. Transfer and Bake:
   • Place the rolled strudel seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the top with melted butter.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
6. Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing.
   • Serve warm, optionally with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Tips:

• Dough Variations: If you prefer, you can use store-bought phyllo dough for a quicker version.
• Apple Varieties: Mixing different types of apples can enhance the flavor and texture.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the strudel just before baking.

Enjoy!

This Apple Strudel is a delightful dessert that captures the flavors of fall and is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven for the best taste!