Let me tell you about my absolute favorite dessert: easy apple strudel! There’s just something magical about the way those warm, spiced apples wrapped in flaky phyllo dough make my heart sing. I remember the first time I made this recipe—it was a chilly autumn afternoon, and the smell of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen felt like a warm hug. I couldn’t wait to dig in! This strudel is so simple to whip up, yet it looks and tastes like a showstopper. Whether you’re having friends over or just treating yourself to something special, this easy apple strudel will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked on the delightful combination of sweet apples and buttery layers. Let’s get started on making your own!
Ingredients for Easy Apple Strudel
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delightful easy apple strudel. I’ve made sure to keep it simple and straightforward, so you won’t have any trouble gathering your ingredients!
- 4 apples – Make sure to peel and slice them thinly. I love using a mix of tart and sweet apples for that perfect balance of flavors!
- 1 cup sugar – This will sweeten the apples and create a lovely caramelization during baking.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – The warm, cozy aroma of cinnamon is a must! It brings everything together and gives that classic strudel flavor.
- 1 package phyllo dough – You’ll want to let this thaw in the fridge overnight before you start. It’s what gives our strudel that flaky, buttery texture!
- 1/2 cup butter, melted – This is key for brushing on the phyllo layers. It helps them become golden and crispy while adding extra flavor!
- 1/2 cup raisins – These add a nice chewy texture and sweetness. Feel free to use golden or regular raisins, whichever you prefer!
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts – They add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the apples beautifully.
- 1 egg, beaten – This will be used to brush on top of the strudel for that gorgeous golden finish once it’s baked.
How to Prepare Easy Apple Strudel
Let’s dive into the fun part—making your easy apple strudel! Trust me, it’s simpler than you might think, and the result is absolutely worth it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through each part of the process.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it helps the strudel bake evenly and get that lovely golden color. While the oven warms up, you can get everything else ready!
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, toss your sliced apples with sugar and cinnamon. I find it’s best to mix them until the apples are evenly coated. This not only sweetens the apples but also ensures every bite is bursting with flavor. Let that sit for a moment so the flavors can mingle while you prepare the phyllo dough.
Step 3: Assemble the Strudel
Now, it’s time to layer! Take one sheet of phyllo dough and brush it generously with melted butter. Then, lay another sheet on top and brush again. You’ll want to repeat this process for about 5 sheets. Next, spread a portion of the apple mixture evenly across the dough, sprinkle on your raisins and walnuts, and then carefully roll the dough tightly from one end to the other. Don’t stress if it gets a bit messy—just embrace the chaos! Place the rolled strudel seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Bake the Strudel
Brush the top of your strudel with the beaten egg for that beautiful, glossy finish. Then pop it in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and you can smell those delicious apples and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen. You’ll know it’s done when the top is crisp and flaky, and the strudel looks irresistible! Let it cool for a bit before slicing, so the filling has time to set. Enjoy every bite!
Tips for Success with Easy Apple Strudel
Before you whip up your easy apple strudel, here are some handy tips to make sure it turns out perfectly every time. Trust me, these little tricks can make a big difference!
- Phyllo dough handling: Keep your phyllo sheets covered with a damp cloth as you work. This prevents them from drying out and becoming brittle, which can make rolling difficult!
- Apple selection: Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are fantastic together—but use whatever you love!
- Don’t skimp on butter: Brushing on enough melted butter is key to achieving that crispy, flaky texture. It’s worth it for the flavor and crunch!
- Layering is key: Don’t rush the layering process. Make sure each sheet of phyllo is well-buttered, so they stick together nicely and create that wonderful texture.
- Baking time: Keep an eye on your strudel in the last few minutes of baking. Ovens can vary, and you want it golden brown but not overcooked!
- Let it cool: Give your strudel a little time to cool before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes for cleaner slices—plus, it’s a great time to whip up some vanilla ice cream!
Nutritional Information
Before you dig in, it’s good to know what you’re enjoying! Just a heads up, the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just a guideline. Each slice of my easy apple strudel typically contains:
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
So, enjoy a slice (or two!) of this delicious treat guilt-free, knowing exactly what you’re treating yourself to!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This easy apple strudel is truly a gem in my dessert repertoire, and here’s why I think you’re going to love making it just as much as I do:
- Simplicity: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find this recipe is perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers alike.
- Delicious flavor: The combination of sweet, spiced apples, crunchy walnuts, and flaky phyllo dough creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible!
- Versatility: You can easily customize this strudel with your favorite fruits or nuts. Want to swap in pears or add a splash of caramel? Go for it!
- Perfect for sharing: This recipe yields 8 generous slices, making it ideal for gatherings, family dinners, or cozy nights in with friends.
- Impressive presentation: It looks so elegant when it comes out of the oven, golden brown and aromatic—everyone will think you spent hours in the kitchen!
- Serve it your way: Whether you enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dusted with powdered sugar, the serving options are endless!
Once you try this easy apple strudel, I bet it’ll become a go-to recipe in your kitchen, just like it has in mine!
FAQ About Easy Apple Strudel
Got questions about making your easy apple strudel? No worries—I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear, along with my answers to help you out:
Can I use other fruits besides apples?
Absolutely! While apples are traditional, you can experiment with other fruits like pears, cherries, or even a mix of berries. Just keep in mind that different fruits may require slight adjustments in sugar and baking time.
Is it necessary to use phyllo dough?
For that classic flaky texture, yes! Phyllo dough is what gives strudel its signature crispiness. If you can’t find it, you could try using puff pastry, but the flavor and texture will be different.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
You sure can! Just mix the apple filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before assembling your strudel. This actually enhances the flavors, so it’s a win-win!
How do I know when my strudel is done baking?
Look for that gorgeous golden-brown color on top! You’ll also know it’s done when the kitchen is filled with that delightful aroma and the phyllo is crisp. If you tap it gently, it should sound hollow.
Can I freeze the strudel?
Yes, you can! Just wrap the unbaked strudel tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Perfect for a last-minute dessert!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about how to store any leftovers (if there are any, because this easy apple strudel is so delicious!) and how to reheat it without losing that amazing flaky texture.
To store your leftover strudel, let it cool completely at room temperature. Once it’s cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. You can also place it in an airtight container if you prefer. It should stay good in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just remember to keep it wrapped up so it doesn’t dry out!
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the strudel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the top from over-browning. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the phyllo is crispy again. You can also pop a slice in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds if you’re in a hurry, but I recommend the oven for the best texture.
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your easy apple strudel for days to come. Enjoy every delightful bite!
Print
Easy Apple Strudel: 5 Steps to Mouthwatering Delight
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Austrian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious apple strudel recipe.
Ingredients
- 4 apples, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 package phyllo dough
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix apples, sugar, and cinnamon.
- Lay out one sheet of phyllo dough and brush with melted butter.
- Layer another sheet on top and brush again.
- Spread a portion of the apple mixture, raisins, and walnuts on the dough.
- Roll the dough tightly and place on a baking sheet.
- Brush the top with beaten egg.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
- Let it cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Use any type of apples you prefer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: easy apple strudel