Apple Strudel (Grandma's Italian Recipe)

Apple Strudel – Grandma's Italian Recipe

Introduction

Apple strudel is a classic dessert loved by many generations, blending culinary tradition with the rich flavors of fresh fruit. This recipe comes from a cherished magazine, "Grandma's Recipe Book," and reminds us of the moments spent in Grandma's kitchen, where every ingredient was carefully chosen, and each step was a celebration of the senses. Its unique taste, contrasting textures, and inviting aroma make it an ideal dessert for both special occasions and a simple Sunday afternoon.

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 1 hour
- Baking time: 30-40 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
- Servings: 8

Ingredients

- 200 g flour
- 1 egg
- 2 ½ tablespoons oil (preferably olive oil, but any type of oil can be used)
- A pinch of salt
- 250 g breadcrumbs
- 500 g apples (choose sweet and aromatic varieties, such as Golden or Fuji)
- 1 teaspoon rum extract
- 100 g sugar
- 200 g butter (for filling and greasing)
- 100 g raisins
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 50 g butter (for greasing the baking dish and the strudel)
- 100 g powdered sugar (for dusting the strudel at the end)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by making the dough for the pastry. In a large bowl, add the flour, egg, oil, and a pinch of salt. Use a spatula or your hands to mix the ingredients. Gradually add small amounts of water, kneading constantly until you achieve a smooth, elastic, and non-sticky dough ball. It is essential for the dough to be shiny; if it is too dry, you can add a few drops of water. Once finished, coat the dough ball with a bit of oil and cover it with a stainless steel bowl for 30 minutes to rest.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

Meanwhile, wash and peel the apples. Cut them into quarters and then into thin slices. Place the apple slices in a bowl, add the sugar and cinnamon, mixing well to ensure an even distribution of flavors. Set them aside to allow the sugar to draw out the juices from the apples, giving them natural sweetness.

Step 3: Prepare the Raisins

In another bowl, wash the raisins and add the rum extract. Letting them soak up the rum's aroma will enhance the flavor of the strudel. You can also use other extracts, such as vanilla, but rum adds a special fragrance.

Step 4: Prepare the Breadcrumbs

Over low heat, in a skillet, combine the breadcrumbs with 100 g of melted butter. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until the breadcrumbs become lightly golden and fragrant. This layer will provide a crunchy texture to the strudel.

Step 5: Assemble the Strudel

Roll out the dough on a clean kitchen towel so you can see its pattern. Using a rolling pin, stretch the dough until you have a thin sheet, keeping the edges clean. Sprinkle 2/3 of the prepared breadcrumbs over the sheet, followed by the apple slices and the rum-soaked raisins. Start rolling using the towel, ensuring that the sealed side of the strudel is on the bottom to prevent it from unraveling during baking.

Step 6: Bake

Place the strudel in a greased baking dish and bake it in a preheated oven at 200°C for 30-40 minutes. It is recommended to brush the strudel with melted butter occasionally to achieve a golden and crispy crust.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

When the strudel is ready and has a beautiful color, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Dust powdered sugar on top and enjoy its inviting aroma.

Serving Suggestions

Apple strudel can be served warm or at room temperature, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sweet cream. It is a versatile dessert that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or aromatic coffee. You can use this recipe as a base and experiment by adding other fruits, such as pears or peaches, to create delicious variations.

Nutritional Benefits

This strudel offers an excellent combination of carbohydrates from the apples, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet. Apples are rich in vitamins A and C, while cinnamon provides additional benefits with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Tips and Tricks

- Ensure that the dough is well-kneaded; if it is too soft, add a little flour.
- You can experiment with different types of oil; olive oil provides a distinct flavor, but sunflower oil is also a good choice.
- If you enjoy more intense flavors, add some chopped nuts to the filling for an extra crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can use pears, peaches, or even plums to vary the recipe.

2. Can the strudel be frozen?
Yes, the strudel can be frozen before baking. Wrap it well in aluminum foil and keep it in the freezer. When you're ready to bake, let it thaw at room temperature before placing it in the oven.

3. How can I make the strudel healthier?
You can reduce the amount of sugar or use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Additionally, you can replace the butter with coconut oil for a healthier option.

Conclusion

Apple strudel is not just a delicious dessert but also a way to recreate cherished memories and unforgettable moments. Enjoy every step of its preparation and let its inviting aroma carry you away. Whether you choose to savor it alone or share it with loved ones, this strudel will bring a smile to anyone's face. Enjoy!