Apfelstrudel
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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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!
