Lemon Strudel

Lemon Strudel - A Sweet Delicacy with a Touch of Refreshing Citrus

Strudel is a dessert with a fascinating history, cherished over time for its delicate texture and varied fillings. In this recipe, we will explore the magic of lemon, bringing a splash of freshness and flavor in every bite. This lemon strudel is perfect for a special meal or simply to indulge yourself at the end of the day.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 8

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 package of puff pastry (approximately 275 g)
- 500 g cottage cheese
- 1 egg (for filling) + 1 egg (for brushing)
- 2-3 lemons (zest and juice)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla essence
- 100 g raisins
- 150 g powdered sugar (for decoration)

Preparing the lemon strudel:

Step 1: Preparing the filling
Start by preparing the filling. Carefully grate the zest from 2 lemons, making sure not to include the white part, which can be bitter. This step will bring the intense flavors of lemon into the strudel. Then, squeeze the juice from 1-2 lemons, depending on your acidity preference.

In a large bowl, mix the cottage cheese with the lemon zest, lemon juice, egg, sugar, vanilla sugar, and vanilla essence. Mix well until you obtain a smooth composition. This mixture will be the delicious base of your strudel.

Step 2: Preparing the raisins
In another bowl, soak the raisins in warm water and a little rum. This process will make them softer and add a hint of flavor. Let them sit for about 15 minutes, then drain them well before adding them to the cheese mixture.

Step 3: Assembling the strudel
Roll out the puff pastry on a clean work surface. A package of puff pastry can be divided into 3 equal parts, each part can be portioned into 4 rolls. Choose a piece of pastry, roll it out with a rolling pin, then evenly spread the prepared filling over it. Add the raisins to the mixture and carefully roll the sheet, making sure it doesn’t come apart.

Step 4: Baking
Place the strudels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the strudels for 30-35 minutes, until they become golden and crispy.

Step 5: Decorating and serving
Once the strudels have cooled, sprinkle powdered vanilla sugar on top. This final touch not only adds an attractive appearance but also an extra sweetness.

Practical tips:
- Use well-drained cottage cheese to avoid the filling being too wet.
- If you want an even more intense lemon flavor, you can add a bit of grated orange zest.
- You can experiment with different types of nuts or dried fruits in the filling.
- The strudel can be served warm or cold, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of tea.

Nutritional benefits:
This lemon strudel is a healthier choice compared to many other desserts, thanks to the cottage cheese, which is an excellent source of protein. Lemons add vitamin C and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of cheese for the filling?
Yes, you can use ricotta or mascarpone cheese for a creamier texture and different taste.

2. How can I store the strudel to keep it fresh?
The strudel can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it.

3. What drinks pair well with this dessert?
A cup of green tea or a cold lemonade are excellent choices to complement the refreshing flavors of the lemon strudel.

This lemon strudel is ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends. With every bite, you will feel how the flavors intertwine, and the lemon brings a splash of vitality. I invite you to prepare it and enjoy this delight!