Cheese/Apple Strudel

Cheese and Apple Strudel – A Quick and Delicious Treat

If you are looking for a recipe that combines flavor, ease, and a touch of nostalgia, then cheese or apple strudel is the perfect choice. This quick dessert is ideal for those moments when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The origins of strudel are lost in the mists of time, but it is known as a dish that brings people together, whether served at a festive table or as a simple dessert after dinner. Let’s discover together how to prepare this delight!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients

- 500 g frozen dough (puff pastry)
- 400 g sweet cheese (or 3-4 large apples, diced)
- 100 g raisins (optional, for cheese)
- 100 g sugar (or to taste)
- 2 eggs (if using cheese)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence (optional, for extra flavor)
- Powdered sugar for decoration (optional)

Necessary utensils

- An oven preheated to 180°C
- A baking tray
- Baking paper
- A mixing bowl
- A knife and a cutting board
- A kitchen brush for greasing

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the dough: Take the frozen dough out of the freezer and let it thaw. This step is essential to ensure a perfect texture. Ideally, leave it at room temperature for about 20 minutes.

2. Preparing the filling: In a large enough bowl, add the sweet cheese. If the cheese is very soft, use one egg to avoid an overly wet filling. Add the sugar and raisins, mixing well. If you want to add a touch of flavor, add the vanilla essence.

3. Preparing the apples (if you opt for the apple version): If you decide to make apple strudel, peel the apples, dice them, and sauté them in a pan with a little sugar for a few minutes until they become slightly soft. This will enhance the flavor of the apples and make them sweeter.

4. Assembling the strudel: Roll out the two sheets of dough on a clean surface, forming a rectangle. Trim the edges to create an even shape. Divide the filling evenly between the two sheets, leaving a small space at the edges. Fold the edges to seal the filling and then carefully roll the strudel, forming a cylinder.

5. Greasing and baking: Place the strudel on the baking tray lined with baking paper. Using the brush, grease the surface with beaten egg and sprinkle a little sugar to achieve a golden and crispy crust. Bake the strudel in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until golden and crispy.

6. Serving: Let the strudel cool for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. Sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant appearance. Cut it into slices and enjoy it plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Practical tips

- Choose quality ingredients: Use fresh cottage cheese or well-ripened apples for the best possible taste.
- Variations: Try adding cinnamon to the apple filling for a rich flavor. You can also add chopped nuts or almonds for extra texture.
- Storing the strudel: If you have leftovers, you can keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

Nutritional benefits

Cheese strudel is a good source of protein due to the cheese and eggs, and if you opt for the apple version, you add a supply of fiber and essential vitamins. This dessert is also a healthier choice than many other sweets, having a moderate sugar content.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can experiment with ricotta or goat cheese for different flavors.
2. What can I use instead of raisins? Instead of raisins, you can use dried cranberries or even chocolate chips for a decadent strudel.
3. Can I freeze the strudel? Yes, the strudel can be frozen before baking. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and bake it directly from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

Ideal pairings

This strudel pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or a glass of sweet wine, perfect for a relaxing evening. Additionally, vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce can transform this dessert into an unforgettable experience.

Regardless of the version you choose, cheese or apple strudel will bring a touch of joy to any moment of the day. Experiment and adapt the recipe to your preferences, and the result will always be delicious! Enjoy!