Štrúdl

Štrúdl, a classic Czech pastry, is a delightful dessert made with flaky dough and filled with apples, cinnamon, and sugar. Similar to Austrian strudel, it is a favorite in the Czech Republic, often enjoyed with tea or coffee. This traditional dessert is a perfect balance of sweet, spiced fruit and buttery pastry, making it a must-try for any baking enthusiast.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (60 g) butter, melted
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) lukewarm water
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 pinch of salt

For the Filling:

• 2 lbs (900 g) apples, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup (50 g) sugar
• 1/4 cup (60 g) breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp (5 g) ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup (40 g) raisins (optional)
• 1/4 cup (30 g) chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Topping:

• 1 egg, beaten
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

   In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the melted butter, egg yolk, and lukewarm water. Stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling

   In a bowl, mix the sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and raisins or walnuts if using. Set aside.

3. Roll the Dough

   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a very thin rectangle, about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick. The dough should be so thin that you can almost see through it. Transfer the dough onto a floured kitchen towel.

4. Assemble the Štrúdl

   Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the dough to absorb moisture from the apples. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around the edges. Gently lift the kitchen towel and use it to help roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from one of the short sides.

5. Bake the Štrúdl

   Transfer the rolled Štrúdl to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the top with the beaten egg. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

6. Cool and Serve

   Let the Štrúdl cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Serving

Serve Štrúdl warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Štrúdl is a beloved Czech dessert, cherished for its combination of flaky pastry and sweet apple filling. This easy-to-make pastry is perfect for any occasion, and its rich flavors will transport you straight to the heart of Czech culinary tradition.