Freshly baked homemade apple strudel with a golden, flaky crust, dusted with powdered sugar, on a rustic wooden board.

Homemade Apple Strudel: Traditional Recipe and Expert Baking Tips

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Apple strudel is a beloved dessert with delicate, flaky layers wrapped around a warm, spiced apple filling. This classic pastry originates from Austria and has become a staple in Central European baking. With this easy step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to make the perfect apple strudel from scratch using traditional techniques and expert baking tips.

Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a cozy treat, this homemade apple strudel recipe will impress everyone.

What is Apple Strudel? A Look into its History and Origins

Apple strudel, known as Apfelstrudel in German, is a traditional Viennese pastry dating back to the 17th century. Unlike apple pie, which has a thick crust, apple strudel is made with an ultra-thin dough that’s carefully rolled around a sweet and spiced apple filling.

Why Make Apple Strudel at Home?

  • You can control the sweetness and ingredients.
  • Freshly made strudel is flakier and crispier than store-bought versions.
  • It’s easier than you think, especially with our step-by-step method!

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Apple Strudel

A freshly cut slice of apple strudel on a plate, showing its crispy crust and soft, spiced apple filling.
Take a bite of this perfectly baked apple strudel, filled with cinnamon-spiced apples and wrapped in a crispy pastry.

To achieve the best results, use high-quality ingredients that enhance both the dough and the filling.

For the Strudel Dough:

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water

For the Apple Filling:

  • 4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup (75g) raisins (optional, can substitute with chopped nuts)
  • 1/2 cup (50g) walnuts or almonds, chopped
  • 1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For Brushing:

  • 2 tablespoons melted butter for brushing before baking
  • Powdered sugar for dusting after baking

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Apple Strudel from Scratch

1. Prepare the Dough

  1. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
  2. Add warm water and oil, kneading until a smooth dough forms.
  3. Cover with a damp towel and let it rest for 30–40 minutes to make rolling easier.

2. Make the Apple Filling

  1. Peel, core, and slice apples thinly.
  2. In a bowl, mix apples with sugar, cinnamon, raisins, and nuts.
  3. Toast breadcrumbs in 1 tablespoon butter until golden; this prevents a soggy crust.

3. Roll Out the Dough

  1. On a floured surface, roll the dough as thin as possible, about 18×12 inches.
  2. Carefully stretch it with your hands until almost translucent.

4. Assemble the Strudel

  1. Brush the dough with melted butter.
  2. Spread toasted breadcrumbs, then evenly distribute the apple filling, leaving a 1-inch border.
  3. Gently roll the dough like a jelly roll, sealing the edges.
  4. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

5. Bake to Perfection

  1. Brush the top with melted butter for a golden crust.
  2. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Let it cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Expert Baking Tips for a Flaky and Delicious Apple Strudel

A homemade apple strudel with apples and cinnamon sticks on the side, creating a warm and cozy baking scene.
The perfect blend of flaky pastry, sweet apples, and warm cinnamon makes this apple strudel an irresistible treat.

Avoid a Soggy Crust

  • Always use breadcrumbs or crushed nuts to absorb excess moisture.
  • Make sure apples are sliced thinly for even baking.

Achieve the Perfect Flaky Texture

  • Roll the dough as thin as possible—you should almost see through it.
  • Brushing with butter between layers adds crispiness.

Store-Bought vs. Homemade Dough

  • Homemade dough gives a more authentic texture, but puff pastry is a quicker alternative.
  • If using puff pastry, roll it thinner before assembling.

Variations and FAQs: Customizing Your Apple Strudel Recipe

1. Can I Make Apple Strudel Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can assemble the strudel and refrigerate it overnight before baking. You can also freeze the baked strudel for up to 3 months and reheat before serving.

2. What’s the Difference Between Apple Strudel and Apple Pie?

Unlike apple pie, which uses a thick crust, strudel has a thin, flaky pastry that wraps around the filling. The taste is lighter and crispier.

3. Can I Make a Gluten-Free or Vegan Apple Strudel?

  • Use gluten-free flour for the dough.
  • Replace butter with coconut oil for a vegan version.

More Delicious Dessert Recipes to Try

Love baking? Check out these other must-try recipes:

Final Thoughts

Making homemade apple strudel is easier than you think! With a few simple ingredients and the right technique, you can create a crispy, flaky pastry filled with warm spiced apples. Whether you follow the traditional method or try a variation, this classic dessert is sure to become a favorite.

Have you tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out!

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