Apple and Walnut Strudel – Flaky, Nutty & Perfectly Spiced Delight
1. Introduction
Few desserts are as comforting and elegant as an Apple and Walnut Strudel. With flaky pastry wrapped around a sweet and spiced apple filling, complemented by crunchy walnuts, this dessert is both rustic and refined. It’s perfect for autumn afternoons, holiday dinners, or whenever you want to bring the scent of warm cinnamon into your kitchen.
2. Ingredients Breakdown
- Apples – Choose tart-sweet varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a perfect balance.
- Walnuts – Add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Sugar – A mix of white and brown sugar enhances sweetness and depth.
- Cinnamon & Nutmeg – Classic warm spices that make the filling irresistible.
- Lemon Juice – Keeps apples from browning and adds brightness.
- Phyllo or Puff Pastry – The crisp, buttery shell for the strudel.
- Butter – For brushing layers to achieve golden crispness.
- Breadcrumbs – Prevents sogginess by absorbing excess juices.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Apples – Peel, core, and slice apples thinly. Toss with lemon juice, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and walnuts.
- Prepare Pastry – Lay phyllo or puff pastry on a clean surface, brushing layers with melted butter.
- Add Breadcrumbs – Sprinkle lightly over pastry to keep the bottom crisp.
- Fill and Roll – Spoon apple mixture evenly down the center. Roll up tightly, sealing edges.
- Bake – Place seam-side down on a parchment-lined tray. Brush top with butter and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes, until golden.
- Cool and Serve – Let cool slightly, dust with powdered sugar, and slice.
4. Tips and Variations
- Nut-Free – Replace walnuts with raisins or dried cranberries.
- Extra Flavor – Add a splash of rum or vanilla extract to the filling.
- Make Ahead – Assemble ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Glaze – Brush with apricot jam for a shiny finish.
5. Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Pair with a hot drink like spiced chai or cappuccino.
- Slice into smaller pieces for a dessert platter.
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Fridge – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat – Warm in oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispness.
- Freezer – Freeze baked strudel for up to 2 months; reheat directly from frozen.
7. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 290 |
Fat | 14g |
Saturated Fat | 6g |
Carbohydrates | 39g |
Sugar | 20g |
Fiber | 4g |
Protein | 4g |
Sodium | 150mg |
Cholesterol | 20mg |
Calcium | 30mg |
Iron | 1.5mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
8. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: European / Austrian
Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, sliced
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- ¼ cup white sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 6 sheets phyllo pastry or 1 sheet puff pastry
- 4 tbsp melted butter
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Toss apples with lemon juice, sugars, spices, and walnuts.
- Lay pastry on surface, brush layers with butter.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs over pastry.
- Spread filling along center, roll up, seal edges.
- Place seam-side down on tray, brush with butter.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes.
- Cool slightly, dust with powdered sugar, and serve.