Apfelstrudel, or apple strudel, is a traditional Austrian dessert featuring a delicate, flaky pastry wrapped around a sweet and spiced apple filling. This beloved treat is best served warm with powdered sugar and a side of vanilla sauce or ice cream, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

2 cups (0.26 lb / 120 g) all-purpose flour

¼ tsp salt

½ cup (0.12 l) lukewarm water

2 tbsp vegetable oil

½ tsp white vinegar

For the Filling:

2 lb (0.9 kg) apples, peeled, cored, and sliced thin

½ cup (0.1 lb / 50 g) granulated sugar

1 tsp cinnamon

½ cup (0.12 lb / 60 g) raisins (optional)

½ cup (0.12 lb / 60 g) chopped walnuts or almonds

1 tbsp lemon juice

½ cup (0.06 lb / 30 g) breadcrumbs

2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For Brushing:

4 tbsp melted butter

Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Add water, oil, and vinegar. Knead the dough until smooth, about 10 minutes. Shape into a ball, coat with oil, cover, and let rest for 1 hour.

Step 2: Make the Filling In a large bowl, mix sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, raisins, nuts, and lemon juice. In a pan, toast breadcrumbs in melted butter until golden brown. Let cool and add to the filling.

Step 3: Roll and Fill the Dough Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a floured cloth until paper-thin. Spread melted butter over the dough, leaving a 2-inch (5 cm) border. Evenly distribute the apple filling over two-thirds of the dough.

Step 4: Roll and Bake Gently roll the strudel using the cloth to help lift and fold. Place seam-side down on a lined baking sheet. Brush with melted butter and bake for 35–40 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Serve Let cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar. Serve warm with vanilla sauce or ice cream.

Serving: Apfelstrudel is best enjoyed fresh from the oven with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Crispy, flaky, and filled with warm, spiced apples, this authentic Apfelstrudel is a timeless Austrian dessert. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy afternoon treat, it’s sure to impress!