Apple Strudel

Oh wow, you guys! I just made this apple strudel, and it smells so good. Like, warm apples and cinnamon filling my whole kitchen—yum!

I had to try it right away, and seriously… the pastry is crispy, the apples are soft, and that cinnamon sugar? Total perfection. It’s kinda like a hug in dessert form.

I mean, who doesn’t want a treat that’s sweet, warm, and comforting all at once? You can serve it to friends or just sneak a slice for yourself.

You really should make this. Grab some apples, cinnamon, and flaky pastry, and let’s bake—it’s easier than it looks and so worth it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Reader Favorite: This apple strudel recipe is a crowd-pleaser, loved by everyone from experienced bakers to beginners! One reader called it “an instant classic,” while another said, “the aroma is enough to make your mouth water before you even take a bite!”
• Comforting and Flavorful: The combination of tart apples, sweet currants, crunchy walnuts, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg creates a delicious flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting.
• Golden and Crispy: The filo pastry bakes up perfectly golden and crispy, providing the perfect contrast to the soft, juicy apple filling.
• Easy to Make: With only a few simple steps, this strudel is surprisingly easy to make—great for beginner bakers or those short on time.
• Perfect for Sharing: This strudel is large enough to serve a crowd, making it perfect for family gatherings or a casual afternoon tea with friends.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before we get started, make sure you have the following kitchen tools handy to ensure a smooth baking experience:

• Baking Tray: To place the apple strudel on for baking.
• Pastry Brush: For brushing the filo pastry with butter to ensure it bakes up crispy and golden.
• Sharp Knife: To dice the apples and chop the walnuts and dried fruit.
• Mixing Bowl: To combine the ingredients for the filling.
• Spoons and Measuring Cups: For accurately measuring the ingredients.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this decadent apple strudel (exact measurements are provided below in the recipe card):

• Golden Granulated Sugar: Adds the perfect amount of sweetness to the filling.
• Vanilla Pod: A touch of vanilla flavor makes the apple filling even more aromatic and delightful.
• Granny Smith Apples: These apples are tart and firm, making them the ideal choice for strudel, as they hold their shape when baked.
• Currants and Sultanas: These dried fruits add a chewy texture and a burst of sweetness to the strudel filling.
• Ground Allspice: A warm and fragrant spice that complements the apples.
• Ground Nutmeg: Adds a slightly sweet and spicy warmth to the filling.
• Walnuts: Chopped walnuts provide a crunchy texture and rich flavor, balancing the soft apple filling.
• Filo Pastry Sheets: The delicate, flaky layers of filo pastry give the strudel its signature crispy texture.
• Butter: Melted butter helps achieve a golden, crispy crust and adds richness to the pastry.
• Crème Fraîche: A dollop of crème fraîche adds a creamy touch to each slice of apple strudel, making it extra indulgent.

Variations for Apple Strudel

There are many ways to customize your apple strudel to fit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

• Swap the Nuts: If you’re not a fan of walnuts, feel free to substitute with pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
• Add a Splash of Liqueur: Add a tablespoon of rum or brandy to the apple mixture for an extra layer of depth and warmth.
• Try Other Dried Fruits: If you don’t have currants and sultanas, raisins or dried apricots work beautifully in the filling.
• Go Vegan: Replace the butter with a plant-based option like coconut oil and use a dairy-free crème fraîche to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
• Cinnamon Twist: If you love cinnamon, increase the amount to taste or mix it with the nutmeg for an even spicier flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Apple Filling

Start by preparing the apple filling for your strudel. Begin by peeling and dicing the Granny Smith apples into small, bite-sized pieces. These apples will give your strudel the perfect tart flavor that balances out the sweetness of the sugar and dried fruit.

Once you’ve diced the apples, place them in a large mixing bowl and add the following:

• Golden granulated sugar for sweetness.
• The seeds scraped from 1 vanilla pod to enhance the aromatic flavors.
• A handful each of currants and sultanas for chewy, sweet bites.
• A teaspoon each of ground allspice and ground nutmeg to add warmth and depth to the flavor.
• A handful of chopped walnuts for a bit of crunch.

Stir everything together gently, making sure the apples are coated with the sugar and spices.

2. Prepare the Filo Pastry

Next, it’s time to work with the filo pastry. Filo pastry is thin and delicate, so it requires careful handling. Unwrap the sheets of filo pastry and lay them flat on a clean surface. Cover the unused sheets with a damp kitchen towel to prevent them from drying out.

Take 6 large sheets of filo pastry and place them on a baking tray, brushing each sheet lightly with melted butter using a pastry brush. The butter will help the pastry crisp up and turn golden in the oven. Stack the sheets one on top of the other, creating a layered base for the strudel.

3. Assemble the Strudel

Once the filo pastry is ready, spread the prepared apple filling evenly across the center of the layered pastry. Be sure to leave about an inch of space on each side to make rolling easier.

Carefully fold the edges of the pastry inwards, then begin rolling from one end to the other, forming a tight log. As you roll, keep brushing the outside of the filo pastry with melted butter to help it bake to a beautiful golden color.

Once the strudel is fully rolled, pinch the ends to seal the filling inside and give the pastry a nice, secure shape.

4. Bake the Apple Strudel

Now, it’s time to bake your apple strudel to perfection! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the assembled strudel on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.

5. Serve the Strudel

Once the apple strudel is done baking, allow it to cool slightly before slicing it into pieces. You can serve it warm or at room temperature. A dollop of crème fraîche on top adds the perfect creamy contrast to the warm, spiced apples.

How to Serve Apple Strudel

This apple strudel can be enjoyed in so many ways, making it perfect for any occasion:

• Classic Serving: Slice the strudel into thick pieces and serve as-is with a dollop of crème fraîche or whipped cream on the side.
• With Ice Cream: Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Topped with Powdered Sugar: Dust the top of the strudel with powdered sugar right before serving for an elegant touch.
• With Custard Sauce: Pair it with a rich, creamy vanilla custard sauce for a more decadent dessert.

Storing Apple Strudel

• Unbaked Strudel: If you want to prepare the strudel in advance, you can assemble it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, bake as directed.
• Baked Strudel: Leftover baked strudel can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Simply reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to regain its crispy texture.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	250 kcal
Protein	3g
Carbohydrates	30g
Fat	14g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	18g

Note: The nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

Conclusion

Apple strudel is a timeless dessert that brings together the best of fall flavors, with its juicy apple filling, fragrant spices, and crispy pastry. This easy recipe is perfect for anyone looking to impress friends and family with a homemade treat. Whether you serve it for a special occasion or as a cozy dessert on a chilly evening, this apple strudel will certainly be a hit. The combination of textures and flavors—soft, spiced apples paired with a golden, flaky pastry—is a dessert experience like no other. Try it today, and watch it disappear in no time!

Apple Strudel FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes! While Granny Smith apples are the best choice for their tartness and firmness, you can also use Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Golden Delicious apples for a slightly sweeter flavor.

Can I freeze apple strudel?

Absolutely! You can freeze the strudel either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, wrap the strudel tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When you’re ready to bake it, just pop it straight from the freezer into the oven, adding extra baking time as needed.