Description
Flaky, golden phyllo pastry filled with warm, spiced apples, raisins, and a touch of vanilla, this traditional German Apple Strudel is a comforting and aromatic dessert perfect for fall or the holiday season.
Ingredients
6 large apples (Granny Smith or Braeburn), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup raisins
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
8 sheets phyllo dough, thawed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, sugar, raisins, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and nuts (if using). Let sit to allow flavors to meld.
- Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean kitchen towel, brush lightly with melted butter, and sprinkle with breadcrumbs. Repeat with remaining sheets, layering them up.
- Spoon the apple mixture in a line along one edge of the dough, leaving a 2-inch margin.
- Using the towel to help, roll the dough jelly-roll style, tucking in the ends.
- Place the strudel seam-side down on the baking sheet and brush with remaining melted butter.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until golden brown and crisp.
- Let cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
For a fruity variation, replace raisins with chopped dried apricots or cranberries.
To make it nut-free, omit the walnuts or almonds.
Add a splash of rum or apple brandy to the filling for extra flavor.
Puff pastry can be used instead of phyllo for a richer, less traditional version.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for best texture.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
