Apple Strudel
Apple Strudel – A seasonal delicacy, full of flavor and tradition
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 16
Who can resist a steaming apple strudel with a golden crust and a sweet-sour filling? This classic recipe is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a tribute to seasonal ingredients. Apple strudel is a versatile recipe that can be made with fresh dough or leftover dough, such as pizza dough – a clever solution to avoid waste. Let’s discover together how to prepare this quick and simple dessert that will bring a touch of warmth to every day.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 1 small cube of yeast (25 g)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 cup (approx. 250 ml) warm water
- Flour (as needed, approx. 500 g)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
For the filling:
- 5 apples (preferably sour varieties, such as Granny Smith)
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
- A pinch of cinnamon
Additionally:
- Breadcrumbs (approx. 50 g)
- 1 well-beaten egg (for brushing)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the dough
Start by dissolving the yeast in warm water. Make sure the water is not too hot, or else the yeast will die and not activate. Add the salt and olive oil, mixing well. Gradually incorporate the flour until the dough becomes smooth and pulls away from your hands.
If you have time, let it rise for 30 minutes in a warm place. This will make the dough fluffier and more pleasant to eat. If not, you can use the dough immediately, but make sure it is firm enough to be rolled out.
Step 2: Prepare the filling
Meanwhile, peel the apples and grate them. In a saucepan, add the grated apples and sugar. Sauté them over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until they become slightly soft but not overly so. Add the cinnamon and mix well. Stopping the cooking in time will preserve the texture of the apples, adding a pleasant contrast with the dough.
Step 3: Assemble the strudel
After the dough has risen, knead it again to activate it. Roll it out into a thin sheet on a floured surface. Cut it into appropriately sized rectangles. On each rectangle, sprinkle a bit of breadcrumbs; this will absorb the moisture from the apples and prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
Add a portion of the apple filling, sprinkle a bit more breadcrumbs on top, then fold the dough, ensuring the edges are well sealed.
Step 4: Baking
Place the strudels on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush them with the beaten egg for a golden and appetizing crust. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake the strudels for 25 minutes or until golden.
Chef's Tip
If you want an extra crunchy note, you can sprinkle a little sugar on top of the strudels before putting them in the oven. This will create a caramelized crust that will make the dessert even more delicious.
Serving and Pairing
Apple strudel is served warm, but it is just as delicious cold. You can serve it plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which will add a creaminess. Additionally, a caramel or vanilla sauce will perfectly complement this dessert.
Calories and Nutritional Benefits
Each serving of apple strudel has approximately 180-200 calories, depending on the exact amounts of sugar and oil used. Apples are rich in fiber and vitamin C, making them a healthy ingredient in your diet. Additionally, cinnamon is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Possible Variations
Don’t limit yourself to just apples! You can experiment with other fruits, such as pears or apricots, adding nuts or raisins for extra texture. You can also replace the olive oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use store-bought dough? Yes, puff pastry is an excellent alternative, but make sure to roll it out well and fill it evenly.
- How can I store the strudels? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge to maintain their freshness.
- Can I freeze the strudels? Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Place them on a tray and put them in the freezer, then transfer them to an airtight container. When you want to bake them, let them thaw and follow the baking steps.
Enjoy and savor every bite! This apple strudel will surely become a staple recipe in your kitchen. If you like my recipe, feel free to share it with friends and family. Bon appétit!
Ingredients: for the dough: 1 small cube of yeast (25 g), 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 cup (about 250 ml) warm water, flour as needed, 1 teaspoon salt; for the filling: 5 apples; 3 tablespoons sugar; a pinch of cinnamon; additionally: breadcrumbs; 1 well-beaten egg.
