German Apple Strudel
German Apple Strudel is a delicious pastry that comes from Austria and is loved all over the world. This dessert features a thin, flaky dough filled with sweet, spiced apples, raisins, and nuts. It is often served warm, making it a cozy treat for any occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
Making German Apple Strudel is a great way to impress your family and friends. The combination of flavors and textures in this dessert is comforting and delightful. Plus, it’s a fun baking project that allows you to practice your dough-making skills.
How to Make German Apple Strudel
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 6 cups thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith or similar)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions:
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt together. Make a well in the center and add the egg, water, and oil. Knead the mixture until smooth. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface as thin as you can.
- In another bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, raisins, walnuts, and lemon juice.
- Brush a baking sheet with melted butter and sprinkle breadcrumbs over it.
- Place the rolled-out dough on the baking sheet and spread the apple mixture down the center.
- Fold the edges of the dough over the filling and seal it well.
- Brush the top with melted butter.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the strudel is golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar and slice to serve.
How to Serve German Apple Strudel
Serve German Apple Strudel warm, sliced into pieces. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of additional cinnamon on top can add a nice touch!
How to Store German Apple Strudel
To store leftover German Apple Strudel, let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It can stay fresh for about 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap it well.
Tips to Make German Apple Strudel
- Make sure to roll out the dough as thin as possible for the best texture.
- If you find the dough difficult to work with, you can cover it with a damp cloth while rolling it out to keep it moist.
- Adjust the sugar and cinnamon amounts based on your taste and the sweetness of the apples.
Variation
You can customize the filling by adding other fruits like pears or berries, or by using different nuts such as almonds or pecans. You can also make it less traditional by adding some caramel sauce for a sweeter flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. Just wrap it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before using.
2. Can I use store-bought dough?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use pre-made puff pastry instead of making it from scratch.
3. What apples are best for strudel?
Granny Smith apples are the best choice because they are tart and hold their shape well, but you can also use other tart apples or a mix of apples for different flavors.
