When the cool air of autumn begins to wrap around us, there’s nothing quite like filling your kitchen with the warm, nostalgic scent of baking. This Original Viennese Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel) not only brings a taste of Austria to your table but also evokes memories of cozy family gatherings where laughter and sweet treats filled the air. As you roll out the delicate layers of dough, you can almost hear the rich stories that have been passed down through generations.
Picture this: a flaky, paper-thin crust enveloping a luscious filling of sweet-tart apples, enhanced by a whisper of cinnamon and the luxurious depth of rum-soaked raisins. Each bite is a delightful reminder of why homemade is always better—it’s the comforting embrace of tradition, ready to impress both friends and family alike. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just diving into the world of baking, this strudel not only promises to satisfy your cravings but also reawakens the joy of creating something beautiful and delicious from scratch. So, let’s embark on this delightful journey to crafting the perfect Apfelstrudel together!
Why is Original Viennese Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel) special?
Simplicity: Creating this strudel is a delightful adventure, requiring no complicated techniques—just a few basic steps.
Flavor Explosion: The blend of sweet-tart apples and warm spices creates a comforting harmony that will tantalize your taste buds.
Universal Appeal: This dessert makes a stunning centerpiece, perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, captivating everyone present.
Endless Variations: With options for nutty flavors, different fruits, or a creamy filling, you can personalize your strudel to match your preferences.
Traditional Comfort: Experience a piece of Austrian culture in your kitchen and share timeless recipes that bring love and warmth to your table.
Original Viennese Apple Strudel Ingredients
• To make this delightful strudel, gather these essential ingredients that embody the essence of traditional baking.
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour (145 g) – Provides structure and elasticity; consider bread flour for a chewier texture.
- Water (1/3 cup) – Hydrates the dough for a perfect consistency; using lukewarm water yields the best results.
- Vegetable Oil (1 tbsp + ½ tsp) – Keeps the dough supple; feel free to swap with melted butter for richer flavor.
- Vinegar (½ tsp) – Enhances dough texture during gluten development; lemon juice works as a great substitute.
- Salt (1/8 tsp) – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
For the Filling
- Unsalted Butter (3 tbsp) – Adds richness and flavor; brush it on layers to create a flakier texture.
- Breadcrumbs (2/3 cup) – Absorbs moisture from apples to avoid sogginess; ground nuts can be used for a unique twist.
- Granulated Sugar (5 tbsp) – Sweetens the filling; adjust based on the natural sweetness of your apples.
- Ground Cinnamon (½ tsp) – Infuses the filling with warm, comforting spice notes.
- Raisins (4 tbsp) – Elevates flavor; soaking them in rum offers a decadent touch; substitute with nuts if you prefer.
- Sweet-Tart Apples (2 lbs) – The star of the show; MacIntosh are recommended, but tart varieties enhance taste beautifully.
- Lemon Juice (1 tbsp) – Prevents apple browning and adds a nice tangy acidity.
For Baking
- Melted Butter (2 tbsp) – Use for brushing the dough before baking for that irresistible golden crust.
- Confectioner’s Sugar – Dust over the strudel for a beautiful presentation before serving.
- Whipped Cream – A delightful optional topping to elevate this already indulgent treat.
Let these ingredients lead you on a wonderful culinary experience as you create your very own Original Viennese Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel)!
How to Make Original Viennese Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel)
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Prepare the Dough:
Combine the flour, salt, oil, vinegar, and lukewarm water in a mixing bowl to form a dough. Knead for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic, slamming it occasionally to develop gluten. Shape it into a ball, coat lightly with oil, cover with a cloth, and let rest for at least 1 hour. -
Make the Filling:
Melt the unsalted butter in a small pan and mix it with breadcrumbs, sugar, and ground cinnamon. Slice the sweet-tart apples, then toss them in a bowl with lemon juice and raisins to enhance their flavor. -
Roll and Assemble:
On a floured surface, roll the rested dough out until it’s paper-thin, being cautious to avoid tears. Brush one side with melted butter, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly on the other side, and layer the apple filling. Fold the edges and gently roll up the dough, seam side down, onto a parchment-lined baking tray. -
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the strudel for approximately 30-45 minutes. Look for a golden brown, flaky crust that’s an inviting delight! -
Cool and Serve:
Let the strudel cool slightly before dusting it with confectioner’s sugar. Slice it up and serve warm, optionally pairing it with generous dollops of whipped cream for a delightful finish.
Optional: For added indulgence, serve with a drizzle of vanilla sauce.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Original Viennese Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel) are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the dough up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in the refrigerator wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Additionally, the apple filling can be prepared ahead—just toss the sliced apples with lemon juice and soak the raisins in rum, then refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your strudel, simply roll out the dough, layer with the breadcrumb mixture and filling, then bake as directed. This ensures you experience freshly baked goodness with minimal effort during busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Original Viennese Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel)
Room Temperature: Keep baked strudel at room temperature for up to 1 day, covered loosely with foil to maintain crust texture.
Fridge: Refrigerate strudel for up to 2 days, wrapped in plastic wrap or foil to prevent drying out; expect minor softening of the crust.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked strudel tightly wrapped in plastic and then foil for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Reheating: Reheat leftover strudel in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispness in the crust while warming the filling.
Original Viennese Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel) Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own. Each delightful twist adds a unique flavor and character to this classic dessert.
- Nutty Twist: Substitute half of the breadcrumbs with finely ground walnuts or almonds for a richer texture and flavor.
- Fruit Fusion: Replace sweet-tart apples with peaches or cherries for vibrant flavor profiles that brighten the strudel.
- Creamy Surprise: Add a layer of sour cream beneath the filling for a deliciously creamy bite that balances the sweetness of the apples.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and plant-based milk for a vegan-friendly version without losing that distinct taste.
- Cinnamon Spice: Boost the warmth by adding a pinch of nutmeg along with your cinnamon in the filling for an aromatic experience.
- Caramel Infusion: Drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over the apple mixture before rolling to introduce a rich, sweet twist.
- Rum Raisin Replacement: Omit raisins if preferred and swap with finely chopped dates or prunes for a different yet delicious sweetness.
- Savory Version: For an unexpected twist, try incorporating savory ingredients like sautéed spinach and feta cheese for a unique spin on strudel.
What to Serve with Original Viennese Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel)?
As your strudel warms in the oven, the enticing aroma invites you to think about perfect accompaniments that elevate this delightful dessert experience.
- Whipped Cream: Add a fluffy dollop to each slice; it enhances sweetness and provides a creamy contrast to the flaky strudel.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of rich vanilla ice cream brings a lovely cold contrast, harmonizing beautifully with the warm spices.
- Almond Biscotti: Crunchy and nutty, almond biscotti makes for a delightful pairing, balancing the softness of the strudel with its texture.
- Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: Serve a mug of this rich beverage alongside your strudel; the warm spices will amplify the dessert’s flavors and create a cozy treat.
- Rosemary Lemonade: The fresh, herbaceous notes cut through the sweetness of the strudel, providing a refreshing, zesty finish.
- Nutty Couscous Salad: A light salad sprinkled with nuts and fresh herbs introduces a satisfying burst of flavors that contrast nicely with the strudel’s sweetness.
Pairing these options with your Original Viennese Apple Strudel creates a memorable dining experience, perfect for sharing warmth and delight with family and friends.
Expert Tips for Original Viennese Apple Strudel
- Dough Thickness: Ensure the dough is rolled to a paper-thin consistency; this is crucial for achieving a flaky texture and authentic taste.
- Butter Brushing: Don’t skip the melted butter brushing between layers; it plays an essential role in creating the strudel’s signature flakiness.
- Apple Variety Mix: For a more complex flavor, blend different types of apples in the filling to enhance the sweetness and tartness balance.
- Gentle Rolling: Roll the strudel carefully to avoid tearing the delicate dough; practice makes perfect! A light touch is key.
- Soaking Raisins: If using raisins, soak them in rum or apple juice for added richness, but consider omitting them if you prefer a nutty alternative.
Original Viennese Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel) Recipe FAQs
What kind of apples should I use for the filling?
For the best flavor, I recommend using sweet-tart varieties like MacIntosh or Granny Smith. These apples give a delightful balance of sweetness and acidity, enhancing the strudel’s overall taste. Aim for about 2 lbs of apples to ensure a generous filling.
How should I store the leftover strudel?
If you have any strudel left over, store it at room temperature for one day or refrigerate it wrapped in plastic for up to 2 days. While it will soften slightly, it’s still delicious! Just make sure to keep it covered to maintain its flavor and moisture.
Can I freeze the unbaked strudel?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the unbaked strudel tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. This way, you’ll have a fresh strudel whenever you wish!
What if my dough tears while rolling it out?
Don’t worry too much if your dough tears; it happens to the best of us! Just patch it up with a little extra dough or brush some melted butter over the area and continue. Keep in mind that the key is to roll slowly and gently, as this helps prevent tears in the first place.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
This Original Viennese Apple Strudel is vegetarian-friendly, but if you have specific dietary concerns like allergies to nuts or gluten, adjustments can be made. For nut allergies, simply leave out the walnuts or any nut substitutes. Additionally, if you’re avoiding gluten, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make the dough.
Homemade Original Viennese Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel) Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the flour, salt, oil, vinegar, and lukewarm water in a mixing bowl to form a dough. Knead for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic, slamming it occasionally to develop gluten. Shape it into a ball, coat lightly with oil, cover with a cloth, and let rest for at least 1 hour.
- Melt the unsalted butter in a small pan and mix it with breadcrumbs, sugar, and ground cinnamon. Slice the sweet-tart apples, then toss them in a bowl with lemon juice and raisins to enhance their flavor.
- On a floured surface, roll the rested dough out until it’s paper-thin. Brush one side with melted butter, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly on the other side, and layer the apple filling. Fold the edges and gently roll up the dough, seam side down, onto a parchment-lined baking tray.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the strudel for approximately 30-45 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the strudel cool slightly before dusting it with confectioner's sugar. Slice and serve warm, optionally pairing with whipped cream.