Perfectly Crisp Apple Strudel: Easy Recipe for a Flaky Delight

Ingredients

For the Strudel

3 medium green apples
1 handful of walnuts or pecans
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon cornstarch
500 grams (1.1 pounds) puff pastry (1 sheet)
60 grams (0.5 cup) brown sugar

For the Glaze

1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon milk

Equipment

Peeler
A good peeler makes quick work of apple skins. Look for one with a comfortable grip to make peeling easier.
Chopping Board
A large, sturdy chopping board provides a safe surface for chopping apples and nuts.
Chef’s Knife
A sharp knife is essential for finely chopping apples and nuts. Keep it sharpened to avoid unnecessary effort.
Medium Pan
This will be used to cook the filling. Non-stick options make cleanup simpler.
Rolling Pin
Helpful for evenly rolling out the puff pastry.
Baking Sheet
A non-stick or parchment-lined baking sheet ensures your strudel comes off without sticking.
Pastry Brush
Essential for evenly brushing the glaze over the strudel.

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Filling

Peel and finely chop the apples.

Chop the nuts and add them to the apples.

Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon.

Step 2

Cook the Filling

Transfer the mixture to a pan, cook over medium heat, and add the cornstarch.

Stir well and remove from heat.

Step 3

Assemble the Strudel

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Spread the filling evenly on the puff pastry sheet.

Roll up the strudel and place it on a baking sheet.

Step 4

Bake

Mix the egg yolk and milk, then brush this glaze over the strudel.

Bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown.

Step 5

Serve and Enjoy

Enjoy warm, served with vanilla ice cream. 😍

Servings

When it comes to serving this apple strudel, there are endless possibilities that can make every bite a new adventure 🍏✨.

Classic and Warm: Serve the strudel warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess perfectly balances the warm, spiced apple filling.

Brunch Delight: Elevate your brunch game by serving thin slices of strudel alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and a cup of hot coffee or tea ☕.

Whipped Cream & Spices: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top, sprinkled with a bit of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra touch of flavor.

Variations

To make this delicious apple strudel accommodating for everyone, here are some easy variations 🌱:

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free puff pastry available at most supermarkets, and make sure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.

Vegan: Swap the egg yolk in the glaze for a mixture of almond milk and maple syrup, and use a vegan puff pastry. Replace the milk in the glaze with your favorite plant-based milk.

Faq

Q: How can I prevent my puff pastry from becoming soggy?
A: Ensure your apple filling is not too juicy. Cooking the filling with cornstarch helps to eliminate excess moisture.
Q: Can I use a different type of nut?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with almonds, hazelnuts, or even omit them if you have a nut allergy.
Q: How do I know when the strudel is done baking?
A: The strudel should be a beautiful golden brown color. You can also insert a knife to check if the filling is hot and the pastry is cooked through.
Q: What if my glaze doesn’t cover the strudel evenly?
A: Ensure you thoroughly mix the egg yolk and milk glaze. Use a dedicated pastry brush for even application.
Q: How can I add more flavor to the filling?
A: Try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg. A bit of lemon zest can also brighten the flavor.
Q: Can I freeze the strudel before baking?
A: Yes, you can! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When you're ready to bake, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.