When the holiday season arrives, the comforting scent of freshly baked treats fills the air, bringing warmth and joy to our homes. One delightful dessert that captures the essence of a cozy Christmas celebration is the Swedish classic – äpplestrudel, also known as Apple Strudel. This sweet and spiced pastry is a beloved tradition in many households, perfect for serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to create this delightful Swedish Christmas baking favorite.
**Ingredients:**
– 6 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Jonagold)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 8 sheets phyllo pastry
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. In a bowl, combine the apple slices, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, raisins (if using), and chopped walnuts. Toss well to coat the apples evenly with the sugar and spices.
3. Place one sheet of phyllo pastry on a clean surface and brush it lightly with melted butter. Layer another sheet on top and repeat the process until you have a stack of 4 phyllo sheets, brushing each layer with butter.
4. Spoon the apple mixture along one of the long edges of the phyllo stack, leaving some space at the edges. Carefully roll the phyllo, starting from the apple-filled edge, to create a log shape.
5. Transfer the apple-filled phyllo log onto the prepared baking sheet, seam side down. Brush the top with more melted butter.
6. Bake the äpplestrudel in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender.
7. Allow the strudel to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve slices warm with a side of whipped cream or ice cream.
Creating your own äpplestrudel at home will not only fill your kitchen with the delightful aromas of the holiday season but also bring a taste of Swedish Christmas tradition to your table. This delectable dessert is perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a special treat just for yourself. Whether you serve it as the grand finale to a festive dinner or savor it with a hot cup of tea on a chilly evening, äpplestrudel is sure to become a treasured favorite in your holiday recipe collection. Embrace the spirit of coziness and warmth by baking up a batch of this Swedish Christmas classic and let its sweet flavors brighten your season. Enjoy!
