How to Make a Traditional Viennese Apfelstrudel

How to Make a Traditional Viennese Apfelstrudel

Viennese Apfelstrudel, or apple strudel, is one of Austria’s most famous pastries, loved for its flaky crust and spiced apple filling. This traditional dessert has been a staple in Austrian cuisine for centuries, often served with a dusting of powdered sugar and a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla sauce. Below, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to making an authentic Viennese Apfelstrudel at home.

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Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) lukewarm water
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon vinegar

For the Apple Filling:

• 4 to 5 tart apples (such as Granny Smith or Braeburn), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup (75g) raisins (optional, soaked in rum or warm water)
• 1/2 cup (50g) chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For Brushing and Garnishing:

• 3 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Strudel Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add lukewarm water, oil (or melted butter), and vinegar. Mix with a spoon until the dough starts to come together.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Form the dough into a ball, coat it lightly with oil, and cover it with a damp kitchen towel. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.

Step 2: Preparing the Apple Filling

1. Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Place them in a bowl and mix with lemon juice to prevent browning.
2. Add sugar, cinnamon, soaked raisins (if using), and chopped nuts. Stir well and set aside.
3. In a small pan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter and toast the breadcrumbs until golden brown. Let them cool and then add them to the apple mixture. The breadcrumbs will help absorb excess moisture, preventing a soggy strudel.

Step 3: Rolling Out the Dough

1. Lightly flour a clean kitchen towel or a large work surface. Place the rested dough in the center.
2. Roll out the dough using a rolling pin until it’s about the size of a sheet of paper.
3. Now, use your hands to stretch the dough carefully. Start from the center and gently pull it outward, working around the edges. The dough should be so thin that you can almost see through it.

Step 4: Assembling the Strudel

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Brush the stretched dough with melted butter.
3. Spread the apple filling along one side of the dough, leaving about 2 inches of space from the edges.
4. Use the kitchen towel to help roll the dough over the filling, forming a log. Tuck in the ends as you roll.
5. Carefully transfer the rolled strudel onto the prepared baking sheet, seam side down. Brush the top with more melted butter.

Step 5: Baking the Apfelstrudel

1. Place the strudel in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
2. Halfway through baking, brush it with additional melted butter for a beautifully crisp and flaky crust.

Step 6: Serving

1. Let the strudel cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
2. Slice and serve warm, accompanied by vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a traditional vanilla sauce.

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Tips for the Perfect Apfelstrudel

• Use the right apples: Tart varieties like Granny Smith, Braeburn, or Boskoop work best because they hold their shape and provide a nice contrast to the sweetness.
• Thin dough is key: Traditional Apfelstrudel dough is stretched paper-thin for a delicate, flaky texture. Take your time to achieve this.
• Don’t overfill: Too much filling can cause the strudel to tear or become soggy.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the strudel to cool slightly helps the flavors meld together and makes slicing easier.

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Conclusion

Making a traditional Viennese Apfelstrudel may take some practice, but the results are well worth the effort. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or serving it at a gathering, this classic Austrian dessert is sure to impress. Try this recipe and bring the taste of Vienna to your home!