Name: German Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel)
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup lukewarm water; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 6 cups thinly sliced apples; 1/2 cup granulated white sugar; 1/2 cup raisins; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/4 cup bread crumbs; 1/4 cup melted butter

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I enjoy making this classic German Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel) because it combines delicate, paper-thin pastry with a warm and comforting apple filling. The blend of cinnamon-spiced apples and raisins wrapped in a golden, crisp crust creates a dessert that feels both rustic and elegant.

German Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel)

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon salt

½ cup lukewarm water

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

6 cups thinly sliced apples

½ cup granulated white sugar

½ cup raisins

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 tablespoon lemon juice

¼ cup bread crumbs

¼ cup melted butter

Directions

I start by combining the flour, salt, lukewarm water, and vegetable oil in a large mixing bowl. I mix until a smooth dough forms, then knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic. I cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.

In another bowl, I mix the sliced apples with sugar, raisins, cinnamon, and lemon juice. I toss everything well and set it aside so the flavors can develop.

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

On a lightly floured surface, I roll the dough as thin as possible. Then I transfer it onto a clean, floured kitchen towel and gently stretch it further until it becomes paper-thin.

I sprinkle bread crumbs evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Then I spread the apple filling evenly on top.

Using the towel to guide me, I carefully roll the dough into a log starting from one of the long sides. I place the strudel seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

I brush the top with melted butter and bake it for 35 to 40 minutes until it turns golden brown and crisp. After baking, I let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

I prepare this recipe in about 85 minutes total, including 45 minutes of prep time and 40 minutes of baking. This strudel makes around 8 servings, with each serving containing approximately 355 kcal.

Variations

I sometimes add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra texture. When I want a slightly different flavor, I replace raisins with dried cranberries. I also like experimenting with spices such as nutmeg or cardamom to give the filling a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover strudel in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, I place it in the oven at a low temperature to keep the pastry crisp rather than using a microwave.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dough instead?

I can use phyllo dough or puff pastry as a shortcut, although I find that homemade dough gives the most authentic texture.

What apples work best for strudel?

I prefer using firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith because they hold their shape and balance the sweetness well.

Why do I add bread crumbs to the dough?

I use bread crumbs to absorb excess moisture from the apples, which helps keep the pastry from becoming soggy.

Can I make the strudel ahead of time?

I can assemble it ahead and refrigerate it, then bake it fresh when I’m ready to serve.

How do I prevent the dough from tearing?

I stretch the dough slowly and gently, making sure it is well-rested beforehand, which helps it stay elastic and less likely to tear.

Conclusion

I find this German Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel) to be a timeless dessert that never fails to impress. With its crisp, golden crust and warmly spiced apple filling, it’s a recipe I love returning to whenever I want something comforting and homemade.

📖 Recipe:

German Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel)

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 85 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A classic German apple strudel featuring paper-thin pastry wrapped around a warmly spiced apple and raisin filling, baked until golden and crisp.

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, lukewarm water, and vegetable oil. Mix into a smooth dough, then knead for about 10 minutes until elastic. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
In another bowl, mix sliced apples, sugar, raisins, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Toss well and set aside.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll the dough on a floured surface as thin as possible, then transfer to a floured kitchen towel and gently stretch until paper-thin.
Sprinkle bread crumbs evenly over the dough, leaving a border around the edges. Spread the apple mixture evenly on top.
Using the towel, carefully roll the dough into a log starting from the long side. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush with melted butter and bake for 35–40 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.