Apple Cinnamon Vanilla Strudel

Name: Apple Cinnamon Vanilla Strudel
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup warm water; 1 teaspoon vinegar; 4 medium apples, peeled and sliced; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup raisins (optional); 1 egg (for egg wash); Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Highlighted under: Seasonal Kitchen Delights

I love baking this Apple Cinnamon Vanilla Strudel because it reminds me of cozy afternoons spent in the kitchen. The aroma of spiced apples mingling with buttery pastry is irresistible. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the crisp outer layer and the warm, tender apple filling. Whether enjoyed plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this strudel never fails to impress my family and friends. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of fall, making it a staple in my home during the harvest season.

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-02-01T23:22:29.046Z

When I first made this strudel, I knew I wanted to create something that captured the spirit of my grandmother's recipe. I chose fresh apples and a blend of warm spices to evoke those cherished memories. Rolling out the dough took some practice, but once I perfected it, the whole process felt like a labor of love.

One tip I discovered is to let the filling cool slightly before wrapping it in the pastry. This prevents the dough from becoming soggy. Baking until golden gives that perfect crunch; it's all about finding the right balance of crispy and tender. Each bite is a journey!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Lush, sweet, and aromatic apple filling bursting with cinnamon flavor
Flaky pastry that melts beautifully in your mouth
Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or as a cozy dessert option

Mastering the Dough

Making a perfect strudel dough is both an art and a science. The key is to achieve a balance between the gluten development and the elasticity of the dough. Kneading the dough until it is smooth ensures that it will stretch easily without tearing. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour as you knead, but be careful not to add too much, as this can make the strudel tough.

After resting the dough, it’s essential to roll it out on a well-floured surface. Aim for a thickness that's almost translucent. This allows for a flaky texture when baked. If your dough tears, use small patches to repair it, and remember that imperfections in the dough can add to the homey charm of your strudel!

Enhancing the Apple Filling

Choosing the right type of apples is crucial for your filling. A mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, provides a perfectly balanced flavor. Additionally, the inclusion of lemon juice not only prevents the apples from browning but also enhances their natural sweetness by adding a hint of acidity. For a richer taste, consider substituting some of the brown sugar with maple syrup.

Resting the apple mixture for a short time allows the flavors to meld, creating a more cohesive filling. During this time, the apples will release some juice; if it's too wet, you can add a little extra flour to help absorb it. This ensures a well-structured filling that won't seep out while baking.

Ingredients

For the Strudel Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup warm water
1 teaspoon vinegar

For the Apple Filling

4 medium apples, peeled and sliced
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/4 cup raisins (optional)
1 egg (for egg wash)
Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Make a well in the center and add the melted butter, warm water, and vinegar. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix the sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, flour, and raisins until well combined. Set aside to let the flavors meld together.

Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the dough as thinly as possible without tearing it. It should be translucent. You can use a clean cloth to help lift the dough while rolling.

Assemble the Strudel

Spread the apple filling evenly across the dough, leaving a border. Carefully roll the dough from one end to the other, tucking in the edges. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Strudel

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the strudel with beaten egg to give it a beautiful golden color. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before slicing.

Serve

Dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the apple filling. You can also try different apple varieties to customize the taste according to your preference.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra touch of decadence, serve your strudel warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the flaky pastry and spiced apple filling. If you're feeling adventurous, a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate your dessert to a whole new level.

If you're hosting a gathering, cut the strudel into smaller slices for easy serving. Pair each piece with a cup of spiced cider or warm tea to complement the flavors of the strudel. This combination not only enhances the cozy atmosphere but also allows your guests to savor each bite.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover strudel, it's best to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For a soft texture, reheat slices in a microwave for 20-30 seconds. To restore crispiness, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method helps maintain the flaky layers while warming the filling.

For those interested in making the strudel ahead of time, you can prepare the dough and filling separately, storing them in the fridge. When ready to bake, roll out the dough and fill it as instructed for freshly made strudel without the last-minute rush.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pastry dough?

Absolutely! Using store-bought phyllo dough can save time and still yield a delicious strudel.

→ What apples are best for this recipe?

Tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet varieties like Honeycrisp work wonderfully.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and dough ahead. Just assemble before baking.

→ How should I store leftover strudel?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.