Apple pie

Apple strudel - a traditional delight that brings smiles to the faces of loved ones! This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a simple family afternoon to festive celebrations. In the following lines, I will guide you step by step to achieve a fluffy and aromatic strudel that will conquer any palate.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

A bit of history

Apple strudel is a traditional dessert often associated with childhood memories and sunny autumn days when apples are at their peak. This is a simple yet flavorful recipe that brings together a soft dough and a sweet-sour filling, a true feast for the senses.

Necessary ingredients

*For the dough:*
- 350 g of flour (choose a quality flour to achieve an elastic dough)
- 15 g of fresh yeast (or 5 g of dry yeast)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar (preferably white sugar for a subtler flavor)
- 3/4 cup of lukewarm water (about 180 ml)
- 25 ml of oil (can be sunflower or olive oil)
- A pinch of salt (helps enhance the flavor)
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla sugar (to add a sweet and aromatic note)
- Grated zest of one lemon (for an extra touch of freshness)
- 2 tablespoons of raisins (optional, but recommended for a more intense flavor)

*For the filling:*
- 1 kg of apples (choose sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith or Golden)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar (adjustable according to the sweetness of the apples)
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon (a perfect combination with apples)
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla sugar (for an extra aroma)
- 1 tablespoon of breadcrumbs (which will help absorb moisture)
- Oil for greasing (for a golden and delicious crust)

Preparing the filling

1. Preparing the apples: Start by washing the apples well, then peel them and grate them using a large grater. This step is essential as grated apples will cook evenly and combine perfectly with the other ingredients.

2. Cooking the apples: Place the grated apples in a pan over medium heat. Add the sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla sugar. Mix well and let them cook, stirring occasionally, until the juice evaporates and the apples become soft. This process will enhance the flavors and give the filling a pleasant texture.

3. Adding the breadcrumbs: Once the juice has evaporated, add the breadcrumbs and mix well. This will help absorb excess moisture and provide a pleasant consistency to the filling. Set the filling aside and let it cool.

Preparing the dough

1. Activating the yeast: Heat a little water (about 40°C) until lukewarm. Dissolve the yeast in the water along with 1 tablespoon of sugar and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until a foam forms. This step is essential to activate the yeast and achieve a fluffy dough.

2. Mixing the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the flour and add a pinch of salt. This helps aerate the flour and ensures a good texture for the dough.

3. Kneading the dough: Add the yeast mixture and a little water to the flour. Start kneading the dough, gradually adding the rest of the water. Continue kneading until the dough becomes elastic, non-sticky, and easy to shape. Finally, incorporate the grated lemon zest, vanilla sugar, and raisins.

4. Resting the dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and place it in a warm spot for about 10-15 minutes. This resting time will allow the yeast to work and the dough to rise.

Assembling the strudel

1. Dividing the dough: After the dough has risen, divide it into two equal pieces. Start rolling each piece of dough on a floured surface, forming a thin rectangle.

2. Greasing the sheets: Grease each sheet with oil, ensuring it is evenly distributed. This step will help achieve a crispy crust.

3. Adding the filling: Spread half of the apple filling over the first sheet, smoothing it out with a spatula. Then, carefully roll the sheet into a log shape, taking care not to unravel it. Shape it into a coil and repeat the process for the second sheet.

4. Placing in the tray: Grease a tray with butter and line it with baking paper. Place the strudels in the tray, leaving a little space between them to allow for rising. Brush the surface with a little oil and sprinkle with granulated sugar for a delicious caramelized crust.

Baking

1. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to a medium temperature (about 180°C). A temperature that is too high can cause the exterior to brown too quickly, leaving the interior undercooked.

2. Baking the strudels: Place the tray in the oven and bake the strudels for 35-40 minutes or until they turn golden and brown. You will smell the delicious aroma of apples and cinnamon filling the entire kitchen!

3. Cooling: Once baked, let the strudels cool in the tray for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will allow the steam to escape, preventing the dough from becoming soggy.

Serving and variations

Apple strudel can be served plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sour cream. It is a versatile dessert that can easily be adapted: you can add nuts or almonds to the filling for added texture, or experiment with other fruits like pears or apricots.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use dry yeast? Yes, you can replace fresh yeast with dry yeast. Use 5 g of dry yeast and follow the same activation instructions.

- How can I store the strudel? The strudel stores well at room temperature, covered with a clean towel, for a few days. You can also freeze it for later enjoyment.

- Can I add other spices to the filling? Certainly! A pinch of nutmeg or freshly grated ginger would add an interesting flavor.

Nutritional benefits

This apple strudel is not only delicious but also nutritious. Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and antioxidants. Additionally, the cinnamon content may help maintain blood sugar levels.

In conclusion, this apple strudel recipe is not just a tasty way to use seasonal apples but also an opportunity to create memorable moments with loved ones. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a dessert that will surely become a tradition in your family!

 Ingredients: For the dough: 350 g flour, 15 g yeast, 2 tablespoons sugar, 3/4 cup water, 25 ml oil, a pinch of salt, 2 teaspoons vanilla sugar, grated lemon zest, 2 tablespoons raisins. Filling: 1 kg apples, 4 tablespoons sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 2 teaspoons vanilla sugar, 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs, oil for greasing.