German Apple Strudel
German Apple Strudel is a delightful pastry that brings comfort and warmth to any gathering. With its flaky layers of phyllo dough and a sweet apple filling, this dessert is sure to please everyone. It has a long history and is a popular dish in German-speaking countries. Making strudel at home is easier than you might think, and the smell of baking apples and cinnamon fills your kitchen with a cozy aroma.
Why Make This Recipe
Making German Apple Strudel is a great way to impress family and friends with your baking skills. It is a perfect dessert for any occasion, from family dinners to special celebrations. Not only is it delicious, but it also allows you to make use of fresh apples in a creative way. Plus, the process of making strudel can be fun and satisfying!
How to Make German Apple Strudel
Ingredients
- 1 package of phyllo dough
- 6 cups of thinly sliced apples (such as Granny Smith)
- 1 cup of raisins
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/4 cup of melted butter
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, raisins, cinnamon, and sugar. Mix well and set aside.
- Melt the butter in a pan and toast the breadcrumbs until golden.
- Lay out a sheet of phyllo dough and brush it with melted butter. Place another sheet on top and brush again. Repeat until you have 5 layers.
- Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs over the phyllo dough.
- Add the apple mixture along one edge of the dough.
- Carefully roll the dough, tucking in the sides as you go, until you form a log.
- Place the strudel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the top with butter.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
How to Serve German Apple Strudel
Serve your German Apple Strudel warm or at room temperature. It is delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Dusting it with powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and extra sweetness.
How to Store German Apple Strudel
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate the strudel, where it will stay fresh for about 4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven for a few minutes until warm.
Tips to Make German Apple Strudel
- Make sure to work quickly with the phyllo dough, as it can dry out. Keep unused sheets covered with a damp cloth.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon and sugar to suit your taste.
- Experiment with different types of apples for unique flavors.
Variation
For a twist, try adding nuts like chopped walnuts or almonds to the apple mixture for extra crunch. You can also use different fruits such as pears or cherries for a fruity variation.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the strudel ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the strudel and freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer. Bake it straight from the freezer, but increase the baking time.
Q: Can I substitute the phyllo dough?
A: If you can’t find phyllo dough, you may use a puff pastry. The texture will be different but still delicious!
Q: What type of apples work best for strudel?
A: Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are great choices. Avoid using mushy apples, as they won’t hold their shape during baking.
Enjoy your homemade German Apple Strudel, a delightful treat that everyone will love!
