German Apple Strudel

Authentic German Apple Strudel Recipe - Delicious & Easy to Make

Region / culture: Germany | Preparation time: 1 hour 10 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 8

Introduction

German Apple Strudel is a classic dessert that originated in Austria but has become popular in many German-speaking countries. This delicious pastry is made with a flaky dough filled with a sweet apple mixture, making it the perfect treat for any occasion.

History

The origins of Apple Strudel can be traced back to the 17th century in Austria. It was originally created as a way to use up leftover bread dough and has since evolved into a beloved dessert in many European countries. The recipe has been passed down through generations and has become a staple in German cuisine.

Ingredients

3.5 cups sifted all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 cup warm water
2 cups poppy seeds
0.75 cup white sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
0.5 cup melted butter
9 apples - peeled, cored and diced
0.75 cup heavy cream

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, egg, and water. Stir vigorously until the mixture forms a dough.
Turn out the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rest for 1 hour.
If desired, grind poppy seeds in a food processor. In a medium bowl, combine poppy seeds, sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well and set aside.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Place the dough on a large work surface covered with a cotton cloth. Gently stretch the dough to form a large rectangle.
Pour the melted butter over the dough to moisten it. Carefully stretch the dough into a thin and translucent large rectangle, covering the entire work surface.
Evenly sprinkle the poppy seed mixture over the stretched dough.
Distribute the apples evenly over the poppy seed mixture.
Sprinkle about half of the cream over the apples. Carefully roll each side of the dough towards the middle and fold the ends under the strudel. Cut the strudel in half and place both halves side by side in the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining cream over the strudel.
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until golden and the apples are tender.

Variations

Add raisins or nuts to the apple mixture for added texture and flavor.
Substitute the poppy seed mixture with a cinnamon-sugar mixture for a classic twist.
Use puff pastry instead of homemade dough for a quicker version of Apple Strudel.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic to ensure a flaky pastry.

- Stretching the dough thin is key to achieving the traditional flakiness of Apple Strudel.

- Make sure to evenly distribute the apple mixture to ensure a delicious filling in every bite.

- Brushing the dough with melted butter before baking will help create a golden, crispy crust.

Serving Suggestions

German Apple Strudel is best served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Cooking Techniques

Stretching the dough thin and evenly distributing the filling are key techniques for making a successful Apple Strudel.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use store-bought puff pastry instead of making homemade dough.

- Substitute the poppy seeds with ground almonds or walnuts for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Apple Strudel can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply brush with melted butter and bake as directed.

Presentation Ideas

Serve German Apple Strudel on a platter dusted with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

German Apple Strudel pairs well with a cup of coffee or a glass of Riesling wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Apple Strudel can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of German Apple Strudel contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of German Apple Strudel contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of German Apple Strudel contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of German Apple Strudel contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

German Apple Strudel is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and dietary fiber.

Alergens

German Apple Strudel contains wheat, eggs, and dairy.

Summary

German Apple Strudel is a delicious dessert that is moderate in calories and provides essential nutrients like Vitamin C and dietary fiber.

Summary

German Apple Strudel is a classic dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With a flaky pastry and sweet apple filling, this recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy this delicious treat with a cup of coffee or a glass of wine for a truly indulgent experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for German Apple Strudel. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Germany. I was always fascinated by the smells and flavors that came from our kitchen, where my mother and grandmother would spend hours preparing delicious meals and treats.

One day, as I was rummaging through my grandmother's old recipe box, I came across a faded and worn piece of paper. It was a recipe for German Apple Strudel, written in my grandmother's elegant cursive handwriting. I remember the way my heart raced with excitement as I read through the ingredients and instructions. I knew that I had to try making it myself.

I asked my grandmother about the recipe, and she smiled warmly, reminiscing about the time when she learned to make it from her own mother many years ago. She told me that making German Apple Strudel was a tradition in our family, passed down from generation to generation.

With my grandmother's guidance, I set out to make the strudel. I spent hours peeling and slicing apples, mixing together the perfect blend of cinnamon, sugar, and nuts, and rolling out the delicate dough. As I worked, I could almost feel the generations of women who had come before me, each one adding their own touch to the recipe.

When the strudel finally emerged from the oven, golden brown and fragrant, I knew that I had created something truly special. The taste was like nothing I had ever experienced before - a perfect combination of sweet apples, warm spices, and flaky pastry. I shared it with my family, and they raved about how delicious it was.

From that day on, German Apple Strudel became a staple in our household. I would make it for special occasions, holidays, or just when I wanted to treat my loved ones to something special. Each time I made it, I could feel the connection to my ancestors, who had passed down this recipe through the years.

As I grew older and my own children began to show an interest in cooking, I passed the recipe on to them. I taught them the secrets of making the perfect strudel - the importance of using fresh ingredients, the precision required in rolling out the dough, and the love and care that goes into every step of the process.

Now, as I sit here in my kitchen, surrounded by the comforting smells of cinnamon and apples, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift of this recipe. It has brought me joy, connected me to my past, and allowed me to share a piece of my heritage with my family.

I may have stumbled upon the recipe for German Apple Strudel by chance, but I know now that it was no accident. It was meant to be a part of my life, a link to my family's history and a reminder of the love and traditions that have been passed down through the generations. And for that, I will always be grateful.