INTRODUCTION ABOUT STRUDEL
Apple strudel is a classic Central European pastry, most famously associated with Austrian cuisine, though it is popular across Germany, Hungry, and other parts of Eastern Europe. It features a flaky, butter pastry wrapped around a spiced apple filling, often enhanced with raisins, cinnamon, sugar, and breadcrumbs.
The dough is traditionally stretched until paper thin, creating delicate, crisp layers once baked. The filled pastry is then rolled into a log, brushed with butter, and baked until golden brown.
Typically served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, apple strudel is often paired with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or custard. Its balance of sweet, tart apples and crispy pastry makes it a beloved dessert around the world.
Key characteristics
- Dough: The traditional strudel dough is made from flour, water, and oil or butter. It is stretched by hand until it is incredibly thin and translucent. Some variations use puff pastry or phyllo dough for a quicker and easier approach.
- Filling: The filling typically features apples, with tart varieties like Granny Smith being a popular choice, balanced with sweeter ones such as Golden Delicious or Honey Crisp. Other ingredients commonly added to the filling include raisins (golden raisins are favored by some for their subtle flavor and texture), breadcrumbs (to absorb excess moisture), lemon juice or zest, cinnamon, and sometimes nuts (like walnuts or almonds).
- Assembly: The dough is brushed with melted butter, sprinkled with breadcrumbs, and then spread with the apple mixture. The strudel is then carefully rolled up, often with the aid of a tablecloth or towel, to create a log shape.
- Baking: The assembled strudel is baked until it is golden brown and flaky.
- Serving: Apple strudel is traditionally served warm, dusted with powdered sugar, and often accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, vanilla sauce, or custard.
Origins and variations
While often associated with German cuisine, apple strudel’s roots can be traced to the Austro-Hungarian Empire, with the oldest known recipe dating back to 1697 in Vienna. The thin pastry layers may have been influenced by Turkish baklava, a similar layered pastry.
Today, apple strudel remains a popular pastry throughout Central Europe and has been adopted by various cultures. Different regions and families have their own unique variations, incorporating local ingredients and tastes. For instance, some variations include sour cherries in Hungary, while Czech versions might include nuts and raisins.
In some Jewish communities, particularly Ashkenazi Jews of German, Swiss, and Austrian descent, apple and raisin strudel is a popular choice. German and Austrian immigrants brought apple strudel to Southern Brazil in the 19th century, where it can still be found in many bakeries. It often keeps its original German name, Apfelstrudel, but is sometimes translated to “Strudel de Maçã” (Apple Strudel) or “Folheado de Maçã” (Apple Puff
Classic Apple Strudel Recipe
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 ½ cups (180g) |
| Salt | ¼ tsp |
| Warm water | ⅓ cup (80ml) |
| Vegetable oil (for dough) | 2 tbsp |
| Apple cider vinegar | ½ tsp |
| Melted butter (for brushing dough) | 4 tbsp |
| Apples (Granny Smith or tart variety), peeled and sliced thin | 4 medium |
| Granulated sugar | ⅓ cup (65g) |
| Brown sugar | 2 tbsp |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 ½ tsp |
| Raisins (optional) | ¼ cup |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
| Lemon zest | 1 tsp |
| Chopped walnuts (optional) | ¼ cup |
| Breadcrumbs (to absorb juice) | ½ cup, toasted |
| Powdered sugar (for garnish) | As needed |
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
- In a bowl, mix flour and salt.
- Add warm water, oil, and vinegar. Mix until a rough dough forms.
- Knead on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Coat with oil, cover with plastic wrap, and let rest for 1 hour.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
- In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, sugars, cinnamon, lemon juice, zest, raisins, and walnuts.
- Mix well and set aside.
Step 3: Roll and Stretch the Dough
- On a large floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle.
- Carefully stretch it with your hands until it’s paper-thin — about 2 ft x 3 ft (60×90 cm).
- Brush the entire sheet with melted butter.
- Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs evenly over the dough (leave a 2-inch border).
Step 4: Fill and Roll the Strudel
- Spread the apple filling along one short edge.
- Fold in the sides, then gently roll up the strudel using the tablecloth to help.
- Place seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush with more melted butter.
Step 5: Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 35–40 minutes or until golden brown.
- Brush once or twice during baking with more butter for a crisp crust.
Step 6: Serve
- Let it cool for 10 minutes.
- Dust with powdered sugar before slicing.
- Serve warm, optionally with vanilla ice cream
Nutritional Benefits
| Component | Nutritional Benefit |
|---|---|
| Apples | Rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Helps with digestion and immunity. |
| Cinnamon | Contains anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels. |
| Raisins/Nuts (if used) | Provide natural sweetness, iron, and healthy fats (from nuts). |
| Pastry Dough | Provides carbohydrates for energy, though it’s high in fat and should be consumed in moderation. |
| Sugar | Offers quick energy but should be limited to avoid blood sugar spikes. |
Summary of Nutritional Highlights
- Dietary Fiber: Supports digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
- Vitamin C: Strengthens the immune system and acts as an antioxidant.
- Polyphenols: Found in apples, may reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Energy Boost: Thanks to the carb-rich pastry and fruit sugars.
- Mood Enhancement: The aroma and sweetness can positively influence mood.
Note on Moderation
Apple strudel often contains added sugar and butter, making it high in calories and saturated fat. While it provides nutrients, it’s best enjoyed as an occasional treat within a balanced diet.
Conclusion
Apple strudel is a timeless dessert that blends the comforting flavors of spiced apples, raisins, and flaky pastry into a delicious treat. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this classic pastry reflects the richness of European baking traditions. With its perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and aroma, apple strudel remains a beloved choice for dessert lovers around the world.
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