German Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel) Recipe
German Apple Strudel, also known as Apfelstrudel, is a delicious dessert loved by many across the world. This classic pastry features a flaky crust filled with warm, cinnamon-infused apples. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or refrigerated, this dish promises to delight your taste buds.
In this article, you’ll discover how to create this traditional German dessert. We’ll also highlight the health benefits of this recipe, making it easier for you to enjoy while maintaining a balanced diet.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this German Apple Strudel because it offers a great balance of flavors and textures. It is easy to prepare and makes for a lighter option than many other desserts. With fresh fruits and a simple pastry, this recipe is good for weight loss while satisfying your sweet cravings. Plus, when prepared with portion control in mind, it’s perfect for meal prep or an easy weeknight treat.
HOW TO MAKE German Apple Strudel
Making German Apple Strudel is a rewarding experience, as this dish combines simple ingredients to create something special. Below, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this classic dessert.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Clean kitchen towel
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup lukewarm water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 6 cups thinly sliced apples (preferably Granny Smith)
- 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
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
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Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, lukewarm water, and vegetable oil. Mix until smooth. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it’s elastic. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
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Make the filling: While the dough is resting, take a large bowl and combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, raisins, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Set this mixture aside to absorb all the flavors.
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Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
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Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough as thinly as possible. Once rolled, transfer it to a clean kitchen towel. Carefully stretch the dough until you achieve a paper-thin consistency.
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Add the filling: Spread the bread crumbs evenly over the stretched dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Spoon the apple filling over the bread crumbs.
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Roll the strudel: Using the kitchen towel, gently roll the dough into a log starting from one long side. Be careful not to tear the dough. Once rolled, carefully transfer the strudel to the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake: Brush the strudel with melted butter, enhancing its flavor and promoting a golden-brown color. Bake for 35-40 minutes until it turns golden brown and crunchy.
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Cool and serve: Let it cool slightly before slicing. This allows the filling to set a bit and makes for easier serving.
HOW TO SERVE German Apple Strudel
German Apple Strudel is best served warm with a light dusting of powdered sugar. For a healthier serving idea, try pairing it with a dollop of Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt is not only creamy and delicious but also adds protein and calcium to your dessert, making it a well-rounded treat. Portion control is key for enjoying this dessert without overindulging, so consider slicing smaller pieces.
STORAGE & FREEZING: German Apple Strudel
If you have leftovers or would like to prep this dish ahead of time, German Apple Strudel can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to freeze the strudel, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, you can bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Serve your German Apple Strudel with a side of fresh fruit or a simple mixed green salad to add a healthy touch to the dessert. This pairing brings balance to your meal and keeps it light. You could also enjoy it with a cup of herbal tea for a comforting afternoon treat.
VARIATIONS
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Healthier Version: To create a healthier option, use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This change adds fiber and nutrients, making it a good choice for those looking for a heart-healthy dessert.
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High-Protein or Low-Carb Version: For a high-protein version, consider adding some crushed nuts or seeds into the filling. This will increase the protein content while adding crunch and flavor. For a low-carb variation, use almond flour for the dough and reduce the amount of sugar in the filling by using a sugar substitute like Stevia or erythritol.
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Air Fryer Version: If you have an air fryer, you can cook the strudel in it for a crispy texture without all the added butter. Set your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, checking regularly to prevent burning.
FAQs
1. Can I make a gluten-free German Apple Strudel?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the other ingredients are also gluten-free for a truly gluten-free recipe.
2. How can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
You can reduce the sugar by using natural sweeteners, such as honey or maple syrup, or even sugar substitutes like Stevia or erythritol. This makes it more suitable for those watching their sugar intake.
3. How long can I store leftover strudel?
You can store leftover strudel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it as described earlier.
4. Is German Apple Strudel suitable for diabetics?
If made with sugar substitutes and whole wheat or gluten-free flour, it can be a diabetic-friendly option. However, always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR German Apple Strudel
This German Apple Strudel is great for meal prep. You can prepare the filling a day in advance, which saves time. Simply store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to roll out the dough and bake it. If you want, you could also assemble the strudel and keep it unbaked in the fridge for up to 24 hours before popping it into the oven. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
Enjoy making your German Apple Strudel! It’s a delightful, heart-healthy dessert that fits perfectly into a balanced lifestyle while satisfying your sweet tooth.
German Apple Strudel
Ingredients
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, lukewarm water, and vegetable oil. Mix until smooth. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it's elastic. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- While the dough is resting, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, raisins, cinnamon, and lemon juice in a large bowl. Set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough as thinly as possible. Transfer it to a clean kitchen towel and carefully stretch it to achieve a paper-thin consistency.
- Spread the bread crumbs evenly over the stretched dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Spoon the apple filling over the bread crumbs.
- Using the kitchen towel, gently roll the dough into a log starting from one long side. Transfer the strudel to the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the strudel with melted butter and bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and crunchy.
- Let it cool slightly before slicing to allow the filling to set for easier serving.