Viennese strudel with vanilla sauce

Viennese strudel with vanilla sauce

This Viennese strudel with vanilla sauce is a delicacy that brings a touch of elegance and tradition to every bite. Its origins are lost in the mists of time, but its essence remains unchanged: a perfect combination of fragrant apples, thin pastry, and velvety vanilla sauce. It can be served as a dessert or as a sweet snack with tea, and each bite is an explosion of flavors that will make you think of warm moments spent with family.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 250 g flour (choose a good quality flour for better results)
- 1 egg (approximately 50 g)
- 2 g salt
- 20 ml oil (sunflower oil is an excellent choice)
- 100 ml warm water
- Additional flour for shaping

For the filling:
- 1100 g tart apples (green apples are ideal for a balanced taste)
- Juice of one lemon (to prevent apple oxidation and add acidity)
- 150 g sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon (choose Ceylon cinnamon for a finer taste)
- 150 g butter (melted for a rich flavor)
- 150 g breadcrumbs (ideal for absorbing the juices of the apples)

For the glaze:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 50 g butter (melted, for brushing the strudel)

For the vanilla sauce:
- 30 g flour (or cornstarch, for a finer texture)
- 500 ml boiled milk (use whole milk for a creamier sauce)
- 2 egg yolks
- 100 g sugar
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparing the dough

1. Preparing the dough is essential. It is recommended to make the dough a day in advance to rest. Sift the flour into a large bowl, creating a well in the center.
2. Add the egg, salt, oil, and warm water into the well of the flour. Gently mix with a spoon until the ingredients begin to combine.
3. Kneading is the next step. Knead by hand until you obtain a smooth and elastic dough. This can take about 5-10 minutes.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate. If you have time, let it rest overnight. If not, at least let it chill for 2 hours in the fridge.

Preparing the filling

5. Cleaning the apples. Wash the apples, peel them, remove the seeds, and cut them into small cubes. Sprinkle with lemon juice to prevent oxidation and keep the vibrant color.
6. In a bowl, mix the chopped apples with the breadcrumbs, sugar, and cinnamon. This mixture should be made just before rolling out the dough sheets to avoid the apples releasing too much juice.

Shaping the strudel

7. Divide the dough into two equal parts. On a clean surface, sprinkle flour and start rolling out each piece of dough as thin as possible. Using a clean towel under the dough can help with rolling.
8. On one side of the rolled-out dough, place half of the apple mixture, forming a mound without covering the entire surface. Brush the edges of the dough with melted butter and sprinkle a little of the apple mixture.
9. Carefully roll the dough, gently tightening it as you turn it to enclose the filling. Using the towel will make this process easier.
10. Place the rolls in a buttered baking tray. Brush them with the egg yolk and milk mixture.

Baking

11. Preheat the oven to 190 degrees Celsius. Bake the strudel for 40-50 minutes until golden and crispy. Allow it to cool in the tray to set properly.

Preparing the vanilla sauce

12. Meanwhile, prepare the vanilla sauce. In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the sugar, then add the flour and a pinch of salt.
13. Thin the mixture with milk, mixing well. Bring the sauce to a boil in a double boiler, stirring constantly until it thickens.
14. Once the sauce has cooled, add the vanilla extract and mix well.

Serving

15. Cut the strudel into suitable portions and serve it with vanilla sauce, dusted with cinnamon. It is a perfect combination that will impress any guest!

Practical tips

- Choosing apples: Use tart apples for a pleasant contrast with the sweetness of the vanilla sauce.
- For a crispier strudel: Add a little oil to the strudel dough, which will help achieve a flakier texture.
- Variations: Try adding nuts or raisins to the apple mixture for extra flavor.
- Serving: This strudel is delicious warm, but can also be enjoyed cold. Try it with a berry sauce for a fresh twist.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of Viennese strudel with vanilla sauce contains approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamins, especially vitamin C, while the vanilla sauce adds a decadent touch without compromising nutritional qualities.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other fruits instead of apples? Yes, the strudel can also be made with pears, peaches, or cherries.
- What can I do if the dough doesn't roll out well? Make sure the dough has been chilled sufficiently and kneaded correctly. If it is too soft, add a little flour.

By sharing this recipe for Viennese strudel with vanilla sauce, you will bring a touch of tradition and flavor to your kitchen. Enjoy every moment of cooking and every bite of this delicious dessert!