Apfelstrudel is a traditional German (and Austrian) dessert made of thin, flaky pastry wrapped around a warm filling of spiced apples, raisins, and toasted breadcrumbs. It’s baked until golden and crispy, then dusted with powdered sugar and often served with vanilla sauce or whipped cream. It’s cozy, aromatic, and perfect for fall or any time you want a comforting treat.
Ingredients
Dough:
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1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
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1/4 tsp salt
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1/3 cup (80ml) lukewarm water
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2 tbsp vegetable oil
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1 tsp vinegar
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Extra oil for brushing
Filling:
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4 medium apples (Granny Smith or similar), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
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1/4 cup (50g) sugar
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1/2 cup (75g) raisins (soaked in rum or water)
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
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Zest of 1 lemon
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1 tsp lemon juice
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1/2 cup (50g) chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
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1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs
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2 tbsp butter
For serving:
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Powdered sugar
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Vanilla sauce or whipped cream (optional but amazing!)
Execution
1. Make the dough:
In a bowl, combine flour and salt. Add water, oil, and vinegar. Mix and knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is soft and elastic. Form into a ball, brush with oil, and cover. Give it a full hour at room temperature.
💡 Tip: This rest period is crucial – it lets the gluten unwind so you can achieve that perfect paper-thin stretch later!
2. Prepare the filling:
While the dough rests, combine sliced apples with sugar, raisins, spices, lemon juice, and zest. Set aside. Toast the breadcrumbs in butter until golden and fragrant.
💡 Tip: Toasting the breadcrumbs prevents a soggy strudel by absorbing apple juices.
3. Roll and stretch the dough:
On a floured cloth (like a clean kitchen towel), roll the dough as thin as possible. Then gently stretch it with your hands from the center outward. You should be able to almost see through it.
💡 Tip: If it tears a bit, don’t stress! Just patch it gently—no one will notice once it’s rolled.
4. Assemble:
Brush the dough with melted butter. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over 2/3 of the dough. Pile the apple mixture on top of the breadcrumbs. Fold in the sides and roll it up using the towel to help.
5. Bake:
Transfer the strudel to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with melted butter. 35-40 minutes at 375°F (190°C) transforms it into crispy, golden perfection. Brush with butter a couple of times during baking.
6. Serve:
Lightly dust with powdered sugar and serve warm alongside vanilla sauce or whipped cream.
Additional Tips
✔ Make ahead: You can assemble it and freeze before baking. Bake from frozen—just add ~10 minutes extra.
✔ No time for homemade dough? Use store-bought phyllo pastry, but layer with melted butter between each sheet (about 6 sheets total).
✔ The secret? Blend tart and sweet apple varieties to create layers of flavor in every bite.
Q&A About Apfelstrudel
Q: Can I use store-bought dough?
A: Yes! Phyllo pastry is a great shortcut. Use about 6 thin sheets, brushing each with melted butter before layering.
Q: What apples work best?
A: Tart apples like Granny Smith are ideal because they hold their shape and balance the sweetness of the filling.
Q: Do I have to use raisins?
A: No—skip them or substitute with chopped dried apricots or cranberries for a twist.
Q: How do I keep the strudel from getting soggy?
A: Toasted breadcrumbs absorb extra moisture. Also, let the filling sit for a few minutes before using so it doesn’t release too much juice.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare and freeze it before baking. Bake directly from frozen, extending the time by 10–15 minutes.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Keeps refrigerated for 3 days if wrapped well. Always reheat in the oven—it makes all the difference!
Why You Should Make Apfelstrudel
✅ Authentic & Cozy: Apfelstrudel is a beloved German classic that brings old-world comfort to your kitchen.
✅ The perfect balance: bright tart apples, cozy spices, and rich, buttery dough create an unforgettable flavor experience.
✅ Fun to Make: Stretching the dough by hand is a satisfying, hands-on experience (and a great conversation starter!).
✅ Customizable: Easily adapt it with your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or even a shortcut using phyllo dough.
✅ Crowd-Pleaser: It’s impressive, delicious warm or cold, and perfect for holidays, family dinners, or cozy weekends.
Happy Cooking
Diana
