There is something incredibly comforting and charming about this Apple Strudel Recipe, a classic Austrian dessert that beautifully balances tender, spiced apples with the crispy, flaky texture of phyllo dough. This dessert has stood the test of time for good reason—each bite delivers a perfect harmony of sweetness, warmth, and just a touch of nutty crunch. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or craving a cozy treat on a cool day, this Apple Strudel Recipe will quickly become one of your go-to favorites in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Apple Strudel Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in layering flavors and textures: the tartness of apples, the fragrant spices, the buttery phyllo sheets, and the optional nuts and raisins that add that lovely depth.
- 6 sheets phyllo dough, thawed: Exceptional for creating that crisp, delicate outer crust.
- 4 medium apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced: Their natural tartness balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds crisp sweetness without overwhelming the fruit’s flavor.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Brings warmth and a subtle molasses hint to the filling.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A classic spice that complements apples beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Introduces a cozy depth to the filling’s flavor profile.
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional): Sweet bursts that soak up flavors and add chewy texture.
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): For a crunchy contrast and rich nuttiness.
- 2 tablespoons plain breadcrumbs: Essential for soaking up moisture and keeping the pastry crisp.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Keeps the phyllo sheets irresistibly flaky and golden.
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional): A light finishing touch that adds sweetness and charm.
How to Make Apple Strudel Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling
Begin by tossing those beautifully sliced apples in a large bowl with both sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and your choice of raisins and nuts. This step allows the apples to soak up the sweet, spiced flavors, making every bite burst with warmth and coziness.
Step 2: Layer the Phyllo Dough
Lay one sheet of the delicate phyllo dough onto a clean surface and brush it lightly with melted butter. Repeat this process with all six sheets, layering carefully and brushing each with butter to build that signature flaky, golden crust.
Step 3: Add Breadcrumbs and Fill
Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top phyllo layer. This little trick is key because it soaks up any excess moisture from the apples and keeps your pastry crisp. Then, spoon the apple mixture along one long edge of the stacked dough, leaving a bit of space so you can roll it neatly.
Step 4: Roll and Seal
With gentle hands, carefully roll the dough over the filling, tucking in the sides as you go to form that classic log shape. Place the strudel seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring the roll stays tight to hold in all those delicious flavors.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Brush the strudel with the remaining melted butter, then pop it into a preheated 375°F oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the crust is perfectly golden, crisp, and tempting everyone to dive right in.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow your apple strudel to cool for 10 to 15 minutes—this resting time helps the flavors meld and the filling to set slightly. Then slice it up and prepare for the smiles to begin.
How to Serve Apple Strudel Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar instantly transforms your apple strudel into an elegant treat. For an extra-special touch, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream brings out the warm spices and contrasts beautifully with the crisp pastry.
Side Dishes
Serve the warm apple strudel alongside a cup of rich coffee or a smooth cup of tea to balance the flavors. For a wholesome breakfast twist, pair it with a fresh fruit salad or yogurt to create a welcoming spread that delights all day long.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond slices on a plate—serve your Apple Strudel Recipe in individual mini-rolls for a party platter, or fold the dough into hand-held parcels perfect for picnics. Drizzle with caramel sauce or a spiced honey glaze for an extra wow factor that guests will remember.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover apple strudel can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to keep it moist yet crisp. Refrigerate for up to 3 days and enjoy the next day’s dessert with the same great flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze your prepared apple strudel before baking by wrapping it well in freezer-safe foil or plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for a freshly baked experience anytime.
Reheating
To revive that perfect crispness, reheat slices of apple strudel in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid using the microwave if you want to keep the flaky texture intact, as it can turn the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this Apple Strudel Recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness and firm texture, you can combine varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter, juicier filling. Just be sure the apples hold their shape during baking.
Is it necessary to use phyllo dough or can I substitute puff pastry?
Phyllo dough is traditional for its ultra-thin layers and crispness, but puff pastry works wonderfully too. Puff pastry will give the strudel a richer, buttery texture that’s equally delicious and perhaps easier to handle for beginners.
What’s the purpose of the breadcrumbs in the recipe?
The breadcrumbs absorb extra moisture released by the apples during baking, preventing the pastry from becoming soggy and ensuring a perfectly crisp crust every time you bake this Apple Strudel Recipe.
Can I make the Apple Strudel Recipe vegan?
Yes, you can swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative and make sure to use vegan phyllo dough (most are already vegan). The filling is naturally vegan-friendly, making this a deliciously inclusive dessert.
How do I prevent the phyllo dough from drying out during preparation?
Phyllo dough dries out quickly, so keep the sheets covered with a damp kitchen towel while you work. Also, brushing each sheet generously with melted butter helps keep the layers moist and pliable.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the joy of making and sharing a homemade Apple Strudel Recipe. Its inviting aroma, flaky crust, and warmly spiced filling come together to create a dessert that’s both timeless and deeply satisfying. I encourage you to try this recipe for yourself—you may just find it becoming a cherished favorite in your recipe collection, perfect for any occasion that calls for a little sweet comfort and love.
Print
Apple Strudel Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Austrian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic Austrian Apple Strudel featuring thin, buttery layers of phyllo dough filled with a spiced apple mixture enhanced with raisins and nuts. Baked to golden perfection and dusted with powdered sugar for a delightful, warm dessert.
Ingredients
Phyllo Dough Layer
- 6 sheets phyllo dough, thawed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons plain breadcrumbs
Apple Filling
- 4 medium apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Finishing
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Make the Apple Filling: In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, raisins, and chopped nuts if you are using them. Toss everything thoroughly to evenly coat the apples. Set this mixture aside to let the flavors meld.
- Layer the Phyllo Dough: Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean flat surface. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush it with melted butter. Place another sheet on top and repeat this process until all six sheets are layered, making sure to butter each one to achieve a crisp, flaky crust.
- Add Breadcrumbs: Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top layer of the buttered phyllo dough. This helps absorb excess moisture from the filling and keeps the crust from becoming soggy.
- Assemble the Strudel: Spoon the apple filling along one long edge of the layered phyllo dough, leaving about 2 inches free from the edge. Carefully roll the dough over the filling to form a log, tucking the sides in gently as you roll to secure the filling inside.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the rolled strudel seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the top of the strudel with any remaining melted butter to enhance browning and crispness during baking.
- Bake the Strudel: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until the phyllo pastry is golden brown, crisp, and fully cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the apple strudel to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar if desired. The strudel is best served warm or at room temperature, optionally accompanied by whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent finish.
Notes
- For extra flavor, soak the raisins in rum or apple juice before adding to the filling.
- Puff pastry can be used as an alternative to phyllo dough for a richer texture.
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to elevate this dessert.
