Apple Strudel Recipe: Apple strudel, also known as Apfelstrudel, is a classic pastry originating from Austria and Germany. This delicious dessert features thin, flaky dough wrapped around a sweet apple filling, often enhanced with cinnamon, sugar, and raisins.
Making a perfect apple strudel at home might seem challenging, but with the right techniques, you can create a crispy, golden, and mouthwatering pastry.
This guide will take you through a step-by-step process to make an authentic apple strudel from scratch.
Ingredients Needed
For the Dough:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup (80ml) lukewarm water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vinegar (helps stretch the dough)
For the Apple Filling:
- 4 large apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Golden Delicious)
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup (60g) melted butter
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for absorbing excess moisture)
For Brushing and Topping:
- 1 egg yolk (for glazing)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Equipment Required
- Large mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Clean kitchen towel or parchment paper
- Pastry brush
- Baking sheet
- Oven
Preparing the Dough
- Mixing Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add water, oil, and vinegar, then mix until a dough forms.
- Kneading: Knead for 10-15 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
- Resting: Cover the dough with a towel and let it rest for 1 hour. This relaxes the gluten, making it easier to stretch.
Making the Apple Filling
- Peel, core, and slice apples into thin pieces.
- Mix apples with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, raisins, and nuts in a bowl.
- Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to release flavors.
- Toast breadcrumbs in butter for added crunch.
Rolling and Stretching the Dough
- Lightly flour your surface and roll the dough as thin as possible.
- Transfer to a floured towel and stretch gently using the back of your hands. The dough should be paper-thin and translucent.
Assembling the Strudel
- Spread the toasted breadcrumbs over the stretched dough.
- Evenly distribute the apple filling, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges.
- Carefully roll the strudel using the towel, tucking in the edges.
- Place seam-side down on a buttered baking sheet.
Baking the Strudel
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the strudel with melted butter and bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Storage and Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Reheat in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Variations and Customizations
- Pear Strudel: Replace apples with ripe pears.
- Berry Strudel: Add raspberries or blueberries for a tart twist.
- Nut-Free Strudel: Skip the nuts and add extra raisins.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Dough too thick? Stretch it thinner before adding filling.
- Filling too watery? Drain excess apple juice before rolling.
- Burnt crust? Cover with foil if browning too quickly.
Gluten-Free and Vegan Options
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum.
- Vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a flaxseed egg wash.
Health Benefits of Apples in Desserts
- Apples are rich in fiber and support digestion.
- Cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar levels.
- Nuts provide healthy fats and protein.
FAQs about Apple Strudel Recipe
What type of apples are best for making apple strudel?
For apple strudel, it’s ideal to use firm and slightly tart apples that hold their shape during baking. Varieties such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn are excellent choices. These types provide a good balance of sweetness and acidity, enhancing the flavor complexity of your strudel.
Do I need to peel the apples for strudel?
Yes, peeling the apples is recommended for apple strudel. This ensures the filling is tender and evenly cooked. Peeling also helps in absorbing the spices and sugar better, making each bite perfectly sweet and flavorful.
Can I use store-bought pastry dough for apple strudel?
Absolutely! While traditional apple strudel is made with homemade stretchy dough, using store-bought puff pastry or phyllo dough is a convenient and effective alternative. These options can save time and still deliver a delicious, flaky crust.
How do I prevent my apple strudel from getting soggy?
To prevent sogginess, sprinkle a mixture of breadcrumbs or ground nuts over the dough before adding your apple mixture. This layer absorbs the juice released by the apples during baking, keeping the bottom of the strudel crisp and flaky.
What are the best spices to add to apple strudel?
Cinnamon is the most popular spice for apple strudel, but you can also experiment with nutmeg, allspice, and cardamom for added depth. A touch of vanilla extract can also enhance the flavor profile of your filling.
Can apple strudel be made in advance?
Yes, apple strudel can be prepared in advance. You can assemble it and keep it refrigerated until ready to bake. Alternatively, bake it completely and then reheat in the oven before serving to maintain its crispiness.
How should I serve apple strudel?
Apple strudel is best served warm. It pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar. For an extra touch, drizzle some caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted almonds over the top.
Conclusion
Making homemade apple strudel is simpler than you think! With the right technique and patience, you’ll achieve a perfectly flaky, golden crust with a deliciously spiced apple filling.
So, grab your rolling pin, bake this classic dessert, and enjoy a slice of warm, homemade apple strudel!
