About This Recipe
A classic apple strudel recipe with a rich shortcrust pastry and a sweet, spiced apple filling, perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
- 6 cups apples, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups shortening
- 2 egg yolks (plus water to make 1 cup total)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 reserved egg white
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk or light cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Kitchen Tools
Instructions
Chef's Tips
Use Cold Ingredients: Ensure your shortening and water are cold to prevent the dough from becoming overworked and tough.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough develops gluten, resulting in a less tender crust. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
Rest the Dough: Allowing the dough to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes is crucial for a tender, flaky crust.
Evenly Distribute Filling: Ensure the apple filling is evenly distributed over the bottom crust to prevent soggy spots.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the strudel during the last 15 minutes of baking to prevent the crust from burning.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing results in a tough crust. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping the chilling time can make the dough difficult to roll out and result in a less tender crust.
Burning the Crust: Keep a close eye on the strudel during the last 15 minutes of baking to prevent the crust from burning.
Cutting into a Warm Strudel: Cutting into a warm strudel can cause the filling to run and make it difficult to serve. Allow it to cool completely before cutting.
Variations
Nutty Apple Strudel: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for a nutty crunch.
Spiced Apple Strudel: Add ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg or cardamom to the apple filling for a warmer spice profile.
Dried Fruit Apple Strudel: Incorporate ½ cup of dried cranberries or raisins into the filling for added sweetness and chewiness.
Citrus Infused Apple Strudel: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the apple filling for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Caramel Apple Strudel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the finished strudel for an extra touch of indulgence.
Storage & Freezing
Room Temperature: Store cooled strudel in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: For longer storage, store the strudel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezer: To freeze apple strudel, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Conclusion
This classic apple strudel recipe is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender crust and flavorful apple filling, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the process of baking and the delicious results!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can use any type of apple you prefer. However, a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, will provide the best flavor.
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Yes, you can freeze the apple strudel. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
To prevent the bottom crust from getting soggy, make sure to let the apple filling rest for at least 15 minutes before adding it to the crust. This will allow the sugar and flour to draw out the natural juices from the apples, preventing them from making the crust soggy.
While shortening contributes to the signature tender texture, you can substitute with cold unsalted butter. Cut the butter into small cubes and work it into the flour mixture similarly to the shortening.
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the strudel on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave for 30-60 seconds.
Yes, you can use pre-made pie crust for convenience. However, the homemade shortcrust pastry provides a superior flavor and texture. If using pre-made crust, make sure to use two crusts (one for the bottom and one for the top).