Cherry strudel

Cherry Strudel: A Sweet and Aromatic Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8

Cherry strudel is a traditional dessert, bursting with flavor and aroma, that perfectly combines a soft dough with the sweet-tart filling of cherries. It is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a recipe that brings together pleasant memories and moments of conviviality around the table. Whether served warm, dusted with powdered sugar, or cold, this strudel will add a touch of joy to any occasion.

Ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 100 g melted butter
- 1 egg
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 100 ml milk
- A pinch of salt
- Yeast the size of a walnut (approximately 20 g)
- Vanilla extract
- 250-300 g flour
- Vanilla sugar (optional, for flavor)

*For the filling:*
- 1 kg fresh cherries
- 3 tablespoons semolina
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water

Preparation:

1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, start by mixing the yeast with the sugar. This will activate the yeast, helping the dough to rise. Add the lukewarm milk (not hot), the egg, vanilla extract, melted butter, and salt. Mix the ingredients well to ensure the yeast dissolves completely.

2. Adding the flour:
Gradually add the flour, mixing until you achieve a smooth dough. It is advisable to use a spatula or a wooden spoon at first, then, when the dough becomes firmer, you can knead it by hand. Continue kneading for 5-10 minutes until the dough is elastic and no longer sticks to the sides of the bowl.

3. Letting the dough rise:
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for about 30-40 minutes or until the volume of the dough has doubled.

4. Preparing the filling:
Meanwhile, wash the cherries, remove the stems, and pit them. In a pot, add one cup of water and one cup of sugar. Place the pot on the stove and bring it to a boil until the sugar completely dissolves and a thicker syrup forms. Add the cherries and let them boil for 2-3 minutes. This step will enhance the flavor of the cherries and help retain the juiciness of the filling. After boiling, let them cool in the syrup, then drain well and mix with the semolina. The semolina will absorb excess juice, preventing the dough from becoming soggy.

5. Forming the strudel:
Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a work surface and knead it again for a few minutes. Roll the dough out into a thin sheet, then evenly spread the remaining butter on top. Distribute the cherry filling over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a few centimeters of border.

6. Rolling the strudel:
Carefully roll the strudel, starting from one side and rolling tightly to form a uniform cylinder. Once rolled, you can wrap the strudel in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes. This step will help the dough maintain its shape during baking.

7. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the strudel in a greased baking tray lined with flour. You can brush it with beaten egg and sprinkle vanilla sugar on top to give it a golden, crispy crust. Bake the strudel for 30-35 minutes or until it is beautifully browned.

8. Serving:
Once the strudel is ready, let it cool slightly before slicing. It can be served warm or cold, dusted with powdered sugar. A delicious suggestion is to accompany it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cream for a creamy contrast.

Practical tips:

- Use fresh cherries, but you can also experiment with frozen cherries. Make sure to drain them well before using.
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a little cinnamon to the cherry filling.
- The strudel can be stored in the refrigerator, well covered, but it is best enjoyed fresh to maintain its crispy texture.

Nutritional benefits:
Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and contribute to heart health. Additionally, consuming cherries may help reduce inflammation and improve sleep due to their melatonin content.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other fruits for the filling?
Absolutely! Strudel is versatile, and you can use apples, peaches, or plums, adjusting the sugar quantities according to the sweetness of the fruits.

2. How can I prevent the dough from sticking?
Make sure the work surface is well-floured and that the dough is kneaded properly. If it sticks, you can add a little extra flour.

3. Can I freeze the strudel?
Yes, the strudel can be frozen before baking. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and keep it in the freezer. When you want to prepare it, let it thaw in the refrigerator and then bake according to the instructions.

Whether you're making it for a special occasion or treating yourself every day, cherry strudel is an excellent choice. It will delight not only your taste buds but also the hearts of your loved ones who will savor this wonderful delicacy!