MAYA Pumpkin Strudel (2)

Pumpkin Strudel - a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 8

If you are looking for a quick dessert that brings a touch of autumn into your home, this pumpkin strudel is the perfect choice! The rich flavors and fluffy texture of the dough combine wonderfully with the sweet pumpkin filling, creating an irresistible delight. Here’s how to prepare it step by step.

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 300 g flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 100 g butter (chopped and at room temperature)
- 1 egg
- 100 ml cold water

For the filling:
- 500 g pumpkin (peeled and cubed)
- 100 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 50 g chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For brushing:
- 50 g melted butter

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the dough. In a food processor, combine the flour, salt, and about a third of the butter. Mix on low speed until you achieve a crumbly texture. This is a sign that the flour has well integrated with the butter.

2. Gradually add the egg and cold water, continuing to mix until the dough comes together. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it. Once the dough is smooth and elastic, shape it into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and let it rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

3. While the dough rests, prepare the pumpkin filling. Boil the pumpkin in salted water until soft, then drain and mash it. Add the sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), lemon juice, and cornstarch. If you like nuts, you can add them now for extra texture and flavor. Mix well until the ingredients are completely combined.

4. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.

5. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin sheet, about 3 mm thick. Be careful not to tear it; if it happens, you can easily repair it with a small piece of dough.

6. Place the pumpkin filling on one side of the dough sheets, leaving a space around the edges. Carefully roll the dough starting from the side with the filling to form a tight roll. Make sure the edges are well sealed by pressing.

7. Transfer the strudel to a baking tray lined with parchment paper and brush it with melted butter for a golden and crispy crust.

8. Bake the strudel in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until golden and crispy.

9. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cream.

Practical tips:
- Make sure the pumpkin is well drained; otherwise, the filling will be too wet and may affect the texture of the strudel.
- You can experiment with different types of nuts or seeds to customize the filling.
- If you want to save time, you can use store-bought pastry dough.

This pumpkin strudel is not only a simple recipe but also an excellent way to bring the flavor of autumn to your table. Whether you serve it as a dessert at a family dinner or as a snack with a cup of tea, it will surely be appreciated. Enjoy!