Apple Strudel
Apple Strudel is a classic pastry that delights with its crisp, flaky crust and sweet, aromatic apple filling. This traditional dessert hails from Central Europe, with Austria often taking the spotlight for its delicious variations. Whether enjoyed warm or cold, Apple Strudel is perfect for any occasion, be it a family gathering, a festive celebration, or simply a comforting treat with coffee. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into making this delicious dessert!
Ingredients
- 500 g all-purpose flour (4 cups)
- 1 egg
- 100 g sugar (1/2 cup)
- 10 g vanilla sugar (1 packet or 2 teaspoons)
- 80 ml oil (1/3 cup)
- 250 ml milk (1 cup)
- 7 g dry yeast (1 packet or 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- A bit of lemon juice
- 2.5 g salt (1/2 teaspoon)
- Breadcrumbs for sprinkling on the dough
- Grated apples for the filling
- Cinnamon for sprinkling on the apples
- Vanilla sugar for sprinkling on the apples
- Sugar for sprinkling on the apples
- Beaten egg with a bit of milk for brushing
- Butter mixed with a bit of rum for brushing after baking
Directions
- Prepare the dough: In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, vanilla sugar, salt, and dry yeast. Add the egg, oil, milk, and a bit of lemon juice. Knead until a smooth dough forms and let it rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size.
- Form the strudel: Once the dough has risen, divide it into two parts. Roll each piece into a thin rectangle. Sprinkle the dough with breadcrumbs to absorb any excess moisture from the apples.
- Add the filling: Evenly distribute the grated apples over the breadcrumbs. Sprinkle with cinnamon, vanilla sugar, and sugar to taste.
- Roll and let rise: Carefully roll the dough with the filling into a roulade and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let the roulades rise on the baking sheet for another 15 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 180 °C (355 °F). Brush the rolls with the beaten egg and milk mixture, and prick them with a fork to allow steam to escape. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
- Finish: After baking, brush the rolls with the butter mixed with a bit of rum to enhance the flavor and give them a beautiful shine.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: About 8 servings
Nutrition Info: Each serving contains approximately 250 calories, 10g fat, 38g carbohydrates, and 5g protein.
How to serve
Apple Strudel is best served warm, ideally accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Dust the top with powdered sugar for an added touch of sweetness and elegance. For a comforting evening treat, pair it with a cup of coffee or a warm spiced tea.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought dough instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use store-bought pastry dough if you’re short on time. Just ensure it’s suitable for baking and follow the filling instructions provided in the recipe.
2. How do I store leftover Apple Strudel?
You can store leftover Apple Strudel in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating it or freezing it for future enjoyment.
3. Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the grated apples and mix them with sugar and spices a few hours in advance. Just keep the mixture in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble your strudel.