Apple strudel with vanilla cream

Apple Strudel with Vanilla Cream

Enjoy a classic dessert that combines the enticing flavors of apples with a creamy vanilla sauce, perfect for any occasion. Apple strudel is a recipe cherished by generations, reminding many of family moments spent at Sunday dinners. With each slice, you'll feel nostalgia intertwining with the intense taste of spices, while the vanilla cream adds a touch of refinement that transforms this dessert into a true delight.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8

Necessary ingredients:

For the strudel:
- 1 pack of puff pastry (approximately 275 g)
- 5 large apples (ideally choose sweet-tart apples, like green ones)
- 150 g of biscuits (preferably cereal biscuits for added texture)
- Sugar to taste (about 2 tablespoons is a good choice)
- 50 g ground walnuts
- 100 g raisins (soaked in water with rum essence for a more intense flavor)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Juice of one lemon (to prevent the apples from oxidizing and add freshness)

For the vanilla cream:
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 cup of milk (approximately 250 ml, preferably whole)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence

Preparing the strudel:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the apples and peeling them. Use a large grater to grate them. This step will not only make the apples easier to incorporate into the filling but will also release their natural juices, enriching the flavor of the strudel.

2. The raisins: In a small bowl, add the raisins and cover them with water and a little rum essence. Let them soak for about 10-15 minutes to enhance their flavor. This technique will make them juicier and add a touch of refinement to the dessert.

3. The apples: After grating the apples, sprinkle them with lemon juice. This will not only prevent oxidation but will also add a fresh taste and balance the sweetness.

4. The biscuits: Crush the biscuits well (use a food processor or place them in a bag and crush them with a rolling pin) until you achieve a fine texture. These will form the base of the filling, providing a pleasant contrast to the juiciness of the apples.

5. The filling mixture: In a large bowl, combine the grated apples, crushed biscuits, ground walnuts, raisins (drained), and sugar. Sprinkle cinnamon for a warm, aromatic flavor. Mix everything very well to ensure the ingredients are evenly integrated.

6. Preparing the puff pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a clean surface. If you bought frozen puff pastry, make sure it is completely thawed before using it. Divide the dough into two equal parts, and on each part, place the apple filling, leaving a small space at the edges.

7. Wrapping the strudel: Fold the edges of the puff pastry to seal the filling, then carefully roll it up. Make sure it is well closed to avoid leaks during baking. You can use a little milk to brush the ends and help them stick together.

8. Baking: Place the strudel on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush it with a little milk on the surface to achieve a golden and appetizing crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for about 40 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Preparing the vanilla cream:

1. The yolk mixture: In a bowl, beat the egg yolks with the sugar and cornstarch until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. This step is essential to prevent lumps from forming during cooking.

2. Adding the milk: Heat the milk in a saucepan, but do not bring it to a boil. When warm, gradually add it to the yolk mixture, stirring continuously. This process is called tempering and helps prevent the yolks from coagulating.

3. Cooking the cream: Place the mixture over low heat and stir constantly until the cream begins to thicken and comes to a boil. It is important to be attentive to avoid burning the cream. Once thickened, remove it from the heat and add the vanilla essence.

4. Cooling: Let the cream cool slightly before using it. You can cover it with plastic wrap to prevent a crust from forming.

Serving the strudel:

After the strudel has cooled slightly, cut it into generous slices and serve it alongside the vanilla cream. This dessert is perfect to be enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, but also pairs well with a sweet wine for an even more refined gastronomic experience.

Helpful tips:

- You can experiment with different types of apples, each variant having its own character. Granny Smith apples offer a tart note, while Fuji apples are sweeter.
- Replace the biscuits with ground almonds for a gluten-free version.
- If you want an even more intense flavor, add a few drops of rum essence to the filling.
- Make sure the puff pastry is well cooked to avoid a soggy texture.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

Each serving of apple strudel with vanilla cream offers approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the serving size. Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet. Additionally, walnuts add healthy fats and protein, while the biscuits provide a crunchy texture and an extra boost of carbohydrates.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can experiment with pears, peaches, or even berries.

2. How can I store the strudel?
The strudel keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. I recommend warming it slightly before serving to restore its crunchiness.

3. Can I make the vanilla cream in advance?
Yes, the vanilla cream can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Make sure to cover it to prevent it from drying out.

I challenge you to bring a touch of magic to your kitchen with this apple strudel and vanilla cream recipe. Whether you serve it at a family meal or a gathering with friends, each slice will bring smiles and pleasant memories. Enjoy!