Apple Strudel

Apple Strudel – A classic recipe, full of nostalgia and flavor

If you have ever dreamed of a slice of warm, steaming apple strudel that tantalizes your senses with its sweet and spiced aroma, then you are in the right place! This apple strudel recipe is not just a delicious dessert but also a journey back in time, evoking pleasant childhood memories when our grandmothers spoiled us with fresh goodies from the oven. Get ready to discover how to create this delicacy step by step, with useful tips and delicious variations!

Preparation time: 2 hours (including rising)
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 100 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 14 g dry yeast
- 300 ml warm milk
- 350 g soft butter (not melted)

For the filling:
- 2-2.5 kg apples (choose sweet and sour apples)
- 200 g sugar
- 100 g butter
- 2 packets of vanilla
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Zest of one orange or lemon

Step by step

1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and dry yeast. Make a well in the center of the mixture and add the warm milk. Mix with a wooden spoon until the ingredients come together, then knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size (about 1 hour).

2. Preparing the butter:
Lay a piece of plastic wrap on the work surface and place the soft butter in the center. Cover with another piece of plastic wrap and use a rolling pin to roll the butter into a rectangle of 20x25 cm. This trick will help you achieve a fluffy and well-layered dough. Place the butter in the fridge to harden.

3. Forming the dough with butter:
After the dough has risen, knead it a little to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface so that it is large enough to wrap around the butter. Place the butter in the center of the dough and fold it over to completely cover the butter. Using a brush, remove any excess flour.

4. Folding the dough:
Fold the dough into thirds, like a letter, and wrap it in plastic wrap. Let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes. Repeat this folding process two more times, leaving the dough in the fridge between steps to achieve a perfect texture.

5. Preparing the filling:
In a large skillet, melt the butter and add the sugar. Stir continuously for 20-30 seconds, then add the peeled and diced apples. Cook until they are al dente, then add the vanilla, cinnamon, and the zest of the orange or lemon. These ingredients will give the filling a special flavor.

6. Forming the strudel:
Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut it in half. Each piece of dough will be divided into three equal sections, without cutting all the way through, just scoring lines. Place the apple filling in the middle, then braid the strips of dough from the sides, crossing them over each other to form a beautiful fringe.

7. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 170 degrees Celsius. Brush the strudel with a beaten egg mixed with a little milk for a golden and appetizing crust. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden and crispy.

8. Serving:
Let the strudel cool slightly before slicing. It can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fine vanilla sauce, which will perfectly complement the sweet-sour taste of the apples.

Chef's tip
For an extra flavor boost, try adding some chopped nuts or raisins to the apple filling. You can also experiment with different types of apples to achieve a unique combination of flavors.

Nutritional benefits
Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamins, especially vitamin C. They contribute to digestive health and can help reduce the risk of chronic conditions. Additionally, butter and flour provide energy, but it is important to consume the strudel in moderation, considering its calorie content.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other fruits?
Of course! You can replace the apples with pears, cherries, or peaches, adjusting the amount of sugar according to the sweetness of the chosen fruits.

2. How can I store the strudel?
The strudel keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.

3. Can it be frozen?
Yes, the strudel can be frozen. Make sure it is well wrapped in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. If needed, thaw it in the fridge before baking.

Delicious pairings
This apple strudel pairs perfectly with warm drinks like mint tea or a spiced mulled wine. It is also an excellent accompaniment for a family evening or a gathering with friends, bringing warmth and comfort to everyone's table.

So, don’t hesitate any longer! Start making this delicious apple strudel and enjoy its enveloping aroma that will fill your home with a festive scent. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: Dough ingredients: 500 g flour, 100 g sugar, 1 teaspoon dry yeast (14 g), 300 ml warm milk, 350 g soft butter (not melted). Filling ingredients: 2-2.5 kg apples, 200 g sugar, 100 g butter, 2 packets of vanilla, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, grated zest of one orange/lemon.