Oktoberfest Apple-Cinnamon Strudel Cups

What you’ll need

Here’s the ingredient list you’ll need to create these delicious strudel cups:

• 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 2 large apples, peeled and chopped
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Feel free to swap in your favorite types of apples or use different nuts if you prefer. It’s all about making it your own!

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a muffin tin.
2. Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets and cut them into 12 equal squares.
3. Press each square into a muffin cup, leaving some overhang.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, raisins, and chopped walnuts.
5. Spoon this apple mixture into each puff pastry cup.
6. Fold the overhang of the pastry over the filling for a rustic finish.
7. Brush the tops of the strudel cups with melted butter.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
9. Let cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.

How to serve Oktoberfest Apple-Cinnamon Strudel Cups

These strudel cups can stand alone as a sweet treat, but consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience. You might also enjoy them alongside a warm spiced cider or a hot cup of coffee to enhance their flavors. An autumn-themed plate garnished with slices of fresh apple can make for an appealing presentation!

Keeping leftovers fresh

If you have any leftover strudel cups, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To preserve their crispiness, avoid placing them in the fridge. If you need to keep them longer, you can freeze the baked cups for up to a month. Just let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly before freezing. When ready to enjoy again, reheat in the oven until warm.

Helpful cooking tips

• Don’t rush the apples: Make sure to peel and chop the apples into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Let the pastry thaw properly: Work with thawed puff pastry for best results; you can leave it in the fridge overnight or out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before use.
• Experiment with spice: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or even some chopped dried cranberries for an extra twist!

Creative twists

Once you’re comfortable with the basic recipe, consider trying these variations:

• Cranberry-Walnut Strudel Cups: Substitute cranberries for raisins and use pecans instead of walnuts for a delicious change.
• Peach-Cinnamon Variants: Substitute apples with peaches for a summer spin.
• Spiced Rum Drizzle: Add a drizzle of spiced rum icing over the top before serving for added flavor.

FAQ

How long does it take to prepare these strudel cups?

Preparation and baking altogether take about 45 minutes to 1 hour. It’s a great option for quick desserts!

Can I make these in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the apple filling ahead of time and assemble the cups right before baking, ensuring they stay fresh.

What are some good Apple substitutes?

If apples aren’t your favorite, pears or a mix of fall fruits like plums can also work well in this recipe!

Can I make this recipe smaller or larger?

Absolutely! Simply adjust the amount of puff pastry and filling to match the number of servings you need.

Crafting these Oktoberfest Apple-Cinnamon Strudel Cups is a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of fall. They bring warmth to any gathering, and with just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delightful dessert that everyone can enjoy!