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Delicious homemade German Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel) with spiced apple filling.

German Apple Strudel

A cozy dessert made with simple ingredients, featuring apples and cinnamon wrapped in a thin, stretchy dough.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: German
Calories: 230
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the strudel dough
  • 2 cups All purpose flour Use for the dough base.
  • 1/2 cup Warm water Helps create the dough.
  • 1 pinch Salt Enhances flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Neutral oil or melted butter For dough elasticity.
For the filling
  • 6 cups Apples, peeled and sliced Use a mix of tart and sweet varieties.
  • 1/2 cup Sugar Adjust based on apple tartness.
  • 1 tablespoon Cinnamon For flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Raisins (or dried cherries/chopped dates) Optional for added sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs, toasted in butter Helps absorb juice.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon zest Optional for brightness.
  • 1 tablespoon Apricot jam Brush on dough for extra flavor.

Method
 

Prepare the Dough
  1. In a bowl, mix flour, warm water, salt, and oil until a dough forms.
  2. Knead the dough until smooth, then let it rest for 30 minutes.
Stretch the Dough
  1. On a floured kitchen towel, roll out the dough gently with a rolling pin.
  2. Use your hands to stretch it from the center outward until thin.
  3. Stop stretching when the towel pattern is visible.
Prepare the Filling
  1. In a bowl, mix sliced apples, sugar, and cinnamon, allowing them to sit for a few minutes.
  2. Drain off excess liquid, then mix in raisins, nuts, or lemon zest if desired.
Assemble the Strudel
  1. Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs evenly over the stretched dough.
  2. Spread the apple filling on top, leaving space at the edges.
  3. Using the towel, roll the strudel up tightly. Tuck ends in to secure filling.
  4. Brush the top with melted butter before baking.
Bake the Strudel
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place the strudel on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 45 minutes, or until golden.
Serve
  1. Dust with powdered sugar before serving and enjoy warm.

Notes

Let the strudel cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing for the best results. It pairs well with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.