Homemade cherry strudel
Cherry Strudel
One of the most beloved desserts, cherry strudel is a true delicacy that combines the flavor of fruit with the fluffy texture of the dough. This traditional recipe, often associated with festive occasions and family gatherings, can be easily prepared in the comfort of your own kitchen. Get ready to delight your taste buds with a delicious strudel that will transport you back to your childhood days!
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8
Ingredients for the dough:
- 500 g flour
- Zest of one lemon
- 200 ml sour cream (or yogurt)
- 100 g butter
- 2 egg yolks
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 packet of dry yeast
Ingredients for the filling:
- 500 g cherries (preferably from a jar, but you can also use fresh cherries)
- 2-3 tablespoons sugar (depending on how sour the cherries are)
- 3 tablespoons semolina
- 1 egg (for brushing)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for brushing)
Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 220
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
The history of cherry strudel is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of several cultures. Over time, strudel has evolved, but its essence has remained constant: a thin dough filled with various fruits or cheese. Today, cherry strudel is appreciated for its unique sweet-sour combination, being perfect both warm and cold.
Let's get started!
1. Preparing the dough: In a small bowl, mix the dry yeast with a teaspoon of sugar and a little warm water. Let the mixture rise for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is the first essential step to achieve a fluffy dough.
2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the lemon zest, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the risen yeast mixture, sour cream, melted (but cooled) butter, and egg yolks. Start kneading the ingredients until you obtain an elastic and homogeneous dough. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
3. Let the dough rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise for 40 minutes in a warm place. This step is crucial for achieving a fluffy texture.
4. Preparing the cherries: While the dough is rising, drain the cherries and remove the pits. Mix them in a bowl with sugar, to taste, and semolina. The semolina will help absorb the juice that the cherries will release during baking, preventing the dough from becoming soggy.
5. Forming the strudel: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a thin sheet. Cut the dough into squares (approximately 10x10 cm). On each square, add a few tablespoons of the cherry filling. Fold the dough into a pouch shape or roll it up, making sure the filling is well sealed.
6. Placing in the tray: Place the strudels on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and let them rise for another 20 minutes. This step will allow the strudels to increase in volume and become even fluffier.
7. Brushing and baking: In a small bowl, beat the egg with the milk and brush each strudel with this mixture. Bake in a preheated oven at 180 °C for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden and crispy.
8. Serving: Serve the strudels warm, dusted with sugar, but don't hesitate to enjoy them cold as well! They are perfect alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a vanilla sauce for a delicious contrast.
Helpful tip: If you want to add extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to the cherry filling. This will add a warm and aromatic note to your dessert.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen cherries? Yes, but make sure to let them thaw and drain well before use.
- How can I adapt the recipe for other fruits? You can replace the cherries with apples, pears, or even plums. Adjust the amount of sugar according to the acidity of the fruits.
- What is the best way to store the strudels? You can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, or freeze them for a longer period.
With this cherry strudel recipe, you will bring a touch of joy to every meal! Whether you choose to prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this dessert will surely be appreciated by all your loved ones. Enjoy every slice and cherish the unforgettable moments you create around the table!
Ingredients: Dough 500 g flour lemon zest 200 ml sour cream 100 g butter 2 egg yolks 5 tablespoons sugar 1 pinch of salt 1 packet of dry yeast Filling 500 g cherries (I used canned) 2-3 tablespoons sugar to taste 3 tablespoons semolina Greased 1 egg 2 tablespoons milk
