During the magical holiday season, nothing quite captures the essence of Christmas in Austria like the beloved Apfelstrudel, or Apple Strudel. This traditional pastry is a delightful mix of sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples encased in a delicate, flaky pastry. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply indulge in a cozy baking adventure at home, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and cheer to your festive table.
**Apfelstrudel Apple Strudel**
**Ingredients:**
– 6 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
– 1 cup bread crumbs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 10-12 sheets phyllo pastry
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, bread crumbs, granulated sugar, cinnamon, raisins (if using), and chopped walnuts. Mix well to ensure the apples are evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
3. Brush a sheet of phyllo pastry with melted butter, then place another sheet on top and repeat the process until you have a stack of 5-6 sheets.
4. Spoon the apple mixture along the long edge of the phyllo sheets, leaving a border around the edges. Carefully roll the phyllo and apple filling into a log, tucking in the sides as you go.
5. Transfer the apple-filled phyllo log onto the prepared baking sheet, seam side down.
6. Brush the strudel with the remaining melted butter for a golden finish.
7. Using a sharp knife, make several diagonal cuts on the top of the strudel to allow steam to escape while baking.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the strudel is golden brown and the apples are tender.
9. Remove from the oven and let the strudel cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
10. Serve slices of the warm Apfelstrudel with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent experience.
Embrace the festive spirit of the holiday season with this delightful Apfelstrudel recipe that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. The aroma of cinnamon and baked apples wafting through your kitchen will surely evoke memories of cozy gatherings and joyful moments. Whether you enjoy it as a sweet treat for breakfast or a comforting dessert after a hearty meal, this Apple Strudel is a classic that never fails to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, put on some festive music, and get ready to create a delicious masterpiece that embodies the essence of Austrian Christmas traditions.
