Apfelstrudel
GermanDessert

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

Apfelstrudel is one of the most iconic desserts in German and Austrian cuisine, featuring delicate layers of hand-stretched dough that become golden and crispy when baked. The filling combines tart apples with warm cinnamon, plump raisins, and buttery toasted breadcrumbs that absorb the apple juices. Each slice reveals beautiful spiral layers of pastry surrounding the fragrant fruit filling. While the technique of stretching the dough requires patience, the result is a stunning dessert that fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of baked apples and spices. Traditionally served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar and a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, this strudel is perfect for any gathering or special occasion. The contrast between the crispy pastry and soft apple filling creates an unforgettable texture experience.

Instructions

step by step
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  1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add vegetable oil and warm water. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Form into a ball, brush with oil, cover with a warm bowl and let rest for 30 minutes.

  2. Meanwhile, peel and core the apples, then slice them thinly. Toss with lemon juice to prevent browning. In a small pan, melt 2 tablespoons butter and toast the breadcrumbs until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.

  3. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, raisins, and toasted breadcrumbs. Mix gently and set aside.

  4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  5. Cover a large table with a clean cloth and dust it lightly with flour. Place the rested dough in the center and roll it out as thin as possible with a rolling pin.

  6. Carefully stretch the dough by placing your hands underneath and gently pulling outward from the center, working your way around. The dough should be thin enough to see through, almost transparent. Trim any thick edges.

  7. Brush the stretched dough generously with melted butter. Spread the apple filling along one long edge, leaving a 2-inch border. Fold in the sides, then use the cloth to help roll the strudel away from you into a tight log.

  8. Carefully transfer the strudel to the prepared baking sheet, seam side down. Brush the top with remaining melted butter.

  9. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and crispy. The pastry should be deeply golden and you may see some apple juices bubbling.

  10. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Apfelstrudel

4.0 (58)

A classic German apple strudel with paper-thin pastry wrapped around cinnamon-spiced apples, raisins, and toasted breadcrumbs. This beloved dessert is crispy on the outside and tender within.

medium
1h 20m
8 servings

Ingredients

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Dough

  • 2 cups flour, sifted
  • 1/4 teaspoons salt
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable-oil

Filling

  • 6 pieces apple, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 1 pieces lemon, juiced
  • 3/4 cups breadcrumbs, toasted in butter
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1/2 cups cherry, dried (optional)

Assembly

  • 8 tablespoons butter, melted

Chef Tips

expert advice
The key to perfect strudel is stretching the dough thin enough to read newspaper through it.
Work gently and let the dough rest fully before stretching.
If the dough tears slightly, don't worry - you can patch small holes.
For easier handling, you can substitute store-bought phyllo dough, though the texture will be different.
Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor balance.
The toasted breadcrumbs are essential as they absorb excess moisture from the apples and prevent a soggy bottom.
You can add chopped walnuts or almonds to the filling for extra crunch.
For a twist, try adding a tablespoon of rum to the apple mixture.
The strudel is best served warm but can be reheated successfully.