Apple strudel

Apple strudel is a classic pastry with a deliciously spiced apple filling wrapped in thin, flaky dough. Here’s a traditional recipe for Apple Strudel:

Ingredients:

For the dough:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • ½ cup warm water
  • 1 tbsp vinegar

For the filling:

  • 4 cups apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (about 4 medium apples)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ¼ cup raisins (optional)
  • ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or breadcrumbs)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For assembly:

  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the dough

  1. Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the vegetable oil, warm water, and vinegar. Mix until a dough forms.
  2. Knead and rest: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the filling

  1. Mix filling ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, raisins (if using), chopped nuts (if using), lemon juice, and flour (or breadcrumbs). Toss until the apples are evenly coated.

Step 3: Roll out the dough

  1. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Roll the dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough as thin as possible into a rectangle, about 16x12 inches. You can also roll it between two sheets of parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Step 4: Assemble the strudel

  1. Add filling: Brush the dough with melted butter, leaving a border around the edges. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the dough.
  2. Roll up: Carefully roll the dough from one long side to the other, enclosing the filling. Pinch the ends to seal and place the roll seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake the strudel

  1. Apply egg wash: Brush the top of the strudel with the beaten egg.
  2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the strudel is golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Cool and dust: Allow the strudel to cool slightly before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Serving suggestions:

  • Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
  • It’s also great with a cup of coffee or tea.

Enjoy your delicious homemade apple strudel!