Even mountain cuisine is present in traditional Italian cookery, especially that of the Alto Adige, with its exceptionally tasty recipes suitable for any occasion, but particularly when lovers of good food are around, and are hungry, with their mouths watering for the authentic flavours and aromas of the Alpine region! Well, so as to continue with our mission to find the most inviting recipes from wherever they may derive, today we have unearthed the most amazing recipe for apple strudel, a dish that is perfect during autumn, especially when the first cold days of the year arrive, during which time the urge to indulge in a rich dessert is irresistible. This Alpine specialty will also be loved by children because with apples you get a sweet fruit that can be enjoyed even more if combined with cinnamon and jam - as is the case of this delicious recipe that we offer today, perfect for rounding off a lunch or dinner.
* approximate values per serving
Soak the raisins in warm water. Peel the apples, core them, and then cut them into cubes. Coarsely chop the nuts. Roll out the dough and prick it with a fork. Spread the dough with your favourite jam, but don’t overdo it. Arrange the apples in the centre, then add the nuts, drained raisins, brown sugar, breadcrumbs, and cinnamon. Fold over and seal the dough, and bake at 180°C for 40 minutes after brushing well with egg yolk.
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Peel and cut the apple into cubes
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Prick the pastry dough with a fork
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Spread the jam over the dough leaving a space around the edge
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Arrange the apple in the centre
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Add the nuts and drained raisins
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Add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs
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Add two tablespoons of brown sugar
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Add half a tablespoon of ground cinnamon
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Seal the first half of the strudel
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Seal the second half, pinching the borders together well
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Put the strudel in a cake or shallow loaf tin
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Brush the strudel with the egg yolk
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Bake at 180°C for 40 minutes
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Serve the strudel with a lovely cup of tea
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One of the most delicious variations of apple strudel is undoubtedly the one with dried fruit and raisins. This preparation enriches the classic strudel with the addition of almonds, hazelnuts, and walnuts, which provide an unexpected crunch and a play of textures that makes every bite irresistible. The raisins, after being rehydrated, combine with the apples to create a sweet and juicy contrast, perfect for balancing the crunchiness of the dried fruit. To prepare this variant, it is advisable to use a good quality puff pastry, which will ensure even cooking and a light, flaky texture. This strudel is ideal to serve warm, perhaps with a dusting of powdered sugar, for a dessert that leaves you speechless.
Apple strudel is a traditional dessert that has its roots in the cuisine of Trentino Alto Adige. The Trentino preparation involves using typical apples from the region, such as golden apples or renette, which give a unique and fragrant flavor. Additionally, in this regional variant, it is common to add a splash of rum or grappa to intensify the aromas and flavors. The dough, usually homemade, is thinner and allows for a delicate wrapping of the apples, enhancing the filling. This version is perfect for those who want to savor a dessert tied to local tradition, to be enjoyed in company during holidays or simply as a dessert at the end of a meal.
For those looking for a lighter version of apple strudel, there is the sugar-free variant, ideal for those who are mindful of their figure or wish to reduce caloric intake. In this preparation, sweet apples can be sufficient to provide the right degree of sweetness, while raisins can be used in moderation. Additionally, one can opt for whole wheat puff pastry or homemade dough with whole wheat flour for a higher fiber content. This light variant does not sacrifice flavor, allowing you to enjoy a healthy and nutritious dessert, perfect even for those following a balanced diet. Served with a scoop of Greek yogurt instead of cream, it becomes a fresh and light dessert.
Apples, the main ingredient in apple strudel, are a fruit rich in beneficial properties. They contain fiber, vitamins (particularly vitamin C), and antioxidants, which help keep the immune system strong and promote digestion. Regular consumption of apples can help reduce the risk of heart disease and improve heart health. Additionally, they have a low caloric content, with about 52 calories per 100 grams, making them an ideal option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Incorporating apples into desserts like strudel not only enriches the dish with flavor but also offers a nutritious and beneficial option for the body.
The question of whether apple strudel can be frozen is common, and the answer is affirmative. This dessert freezes well, allowing you to enjoy it at a later time. To freeze it, it is advisable to do so before baking, wrapping the strudel well in plastic wrap. This way, freshness and flavor are preserved. When you decide to bake it, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours and then bake it following the original recipe. If you wish to freeze a cooked strudel, it is important to ensure that it is completely cool before placing it in an airtight container. By doing so, you can enjoy a delicious dessert even after weeks!