Fall in love with the classic Austrian Apple Strudel! Known for its delicate pastry and rich filling, this dessert has been adored for centuries. Follow our detailed recipe to create an authentic Viennese strudel at home. Perfect for impressing loved ones or simply treating yourself, this strudel is best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Are you in love? Make an Austrian Apple Strudel! Austrians once believed that only a person whose heart had been struck by Cupid’s arrow could master this dessert. Though this might be an exaggeration, strudel remains a cherished dish in Austria, revered as the king of desserts. In Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace, you can even participate in a “Strudel Show” to learn the art of strudel-making. If you can’t visit Vienna, our recipe will guide you to make a perfect Viennese Apple Strudel at home. Whether or not you’re feeling romantic, you’re sure to find success with this delightful pastry!
Calories: 421.00 kcal/serving
Servings: 8
Preparation Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Ingredients for 8 Servings
- Butter – 150 g (5.3 oz)
- Flour – 250 g (2 cups) + 1-2 tbsp for rolling out the dough
- Salt – a pinch
- Water – 125 ml (1/2 cup)
- Egg yolks – 2
- Apples – 1 kg (2.2 lbs)
- Lemon juice – 4 tbsp
- Raisins – 100 g (3.5 oz)
- Chopped almonds – 75 g (2.6 oz)
- Crumbled white bread – 100 g (3.5 oz)
- Sour cream – 125 g (1/2 cup)
- Sugar – 100 g (1/2 cup)
- Ground cinnamon – 1 tsp
- Powdered sugar – 2 tbsp
Directions
Prepare the Dough:
- Melt the butter. Sift the flour with the salt onto a work surface and make a well in the center. Warm the water slightly.
- Pour the water and 2 tbsp of melted butter into the well. Add the egg yolks and knead the dough thoroughly for at least 15 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and let it rest at room temperature for 1 hour to allow the gluten to develop, making the dough tender.
Prepare the Filling:
- Wash and halve the apples. Core and peel them, then cut into small slices.
- Place the apple slices in a bowl. Add the lemon juice, washed raisins, and chopped almonds. Mix well.
- Toast the crumbled white bread in the oven at 160°C (320°F) until golden, then grind it into fine crumbs using a blender.
Assemble the Strudel:
- Remove the plastic wrap from the dough. Form the dough into a rope and slap it against the table a few times. Increase the oven temperature to 200°C (392°F).
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a very thin sheet, then gently stretch it by hand until it is almost transparent.
- Brush the dough with the remaining melted butter and spread with sour cream. Sprinkle with the toasted breadcrumbs.
- Evenly distribute the apple filling over the dough. Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon. Roll up the dough carefully.
Bake the Strudel:
- Place the rolled strudel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with the remaining melted butter. Bake for 45 minutes until golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly, then sprinkle with powdered sugar.
Helpful Tip:
Instead of rolling the dough, you can place it on a linen towel (or an old bedsheet) and gently stretch it in all directions to get a thin sheet. Be patient; this process takes time!
Fun Fact:
Austrian apple strudel is best enjoyed warm, almost hot. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect contrast to the tart apples.
Experience the magic of this classic dessert and bring a taste of Austria into your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, our recipe will guide you to strudel perfection!
