German Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel)

A classic German Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel) is a treat that features a delicate, flaky crust wrapped around a spiced apple filling. It’s perfectly sweet, warmly spiced, and sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe combines a buttery, tender pastry with a vibrant apple filling spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. The lemon zest adds brightness, while the toasted breadcrumbs create the perfect balance of texture. It’s a dessert that feels both comforting and impressive, making it ideal for special occasions or a cozy evening at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dough:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/3 cup water

1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted butter

1 teaspoon vinegar

For the filling:

6 cups thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith or Braeburn are ideal)

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup raisins (optional)

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Zest of 1 lemon

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/3 cup breadcrumbs, toasted in 2 tablespoons butter

For assembly:

4 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)

Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Directions

Prepare the dough:

In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add water, oil, and vinegar, stirring until the dough comes together.

Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover it with plastic wrap and let it rest for 1 hour at room temperature.

Make the filling:

In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with granulated sugar, brown sugar, raisins (if using), cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Set aside.

Prepare the dough sheet:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place a clean kitchen towel on a large surface and sprinkle it lightly with flour.

Roll the dough into a large rectangle, as thin as possible, then stretch it gently with your hands until it is nearly transparent.

Assemble the strudel:

Brush the stretched dough with melted butter. Evenly sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs over it.

Spread the apple mixture along one short edge of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border.

Use the towel to help roll the dough tightly into a log, tucking in the edges to seal the filling inside.

Bake the strudel:

Place the rolled strudel seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the top with melted butter.

Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve:

Let the strudel cool slightly before dusting it with powdered sugar. Slice and serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes 10 slices

Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus 1 hour resting)

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Nutty Strudel: Add chopped walnuts or almonds to the filling for extra crunch.

Berry Twist: Mix in some fresh or frozen berries for a fruity variation.

Savory Option: Use the same dough recipe but fill it with sautéed vegetables and cheese for a savory strudel.

Vegan Adaptation: Replace butter with vegan margarine and ensure sugar is vegan-friendly.

Alcohol Infusion: Soak the raisins in rum or brandy before adding them to the filling.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover strudel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Warm slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 30 seconds. Avoid over-reheating to maintain the flaky crust.

Related Recipes:

• No-Bake German Chocolate Cheesecake
• White German Chocolate Cake
• German Fruit Cake

FAQs

What type of apples work best for strudel?

Granny Smith and Braeburn apples are ideal because they hold their shape and have a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before using.

How do I prevent the strudel from getting soggy?

Toasted breadcrumbs in the filling help absorb excess moisture, ensuring a crisp crust.

Can I freeze apple strudel?

Yes, freeze it before baking or after. If freezing before, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time. If already baked, thaw and reheat in the oven.

What can I serve with apple strudel?

I like to serve it with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a dollop of crème fraîche for a touch of richness.

Conclusion

German Apple Strudel is a timeless dessert that’s sure to impress. The flaky crust and spiced apple filling make it a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its straightforward instructions and versatile variations, it’s a recipe I always enjoy sharing with friends and family. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out.

---

📖 Recipe:

Print