Pin it A classic Austrian dessert featuring flaky pastry filled with spiced apples, raisins, and toasted nuts, served warm with a silky homemade vanilla sauce — the perfect weekend treat for cozy gatherings.
This apple strudel recipe has been a favorite at family gatherings, evoking memories of warm kitchens and sweet aromas that fill the home.
Ingredients
- For the Apple Strudel: 6 medium tart apples (e.g., Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 2 tbsp dark rum (optional, or use apple juice)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or toasted slivered almonds
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup fresh breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for breadcrumbs)
- 6 sheets phyllo dough, thawed
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing phyllo)
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting)
- For the Vanilla Sauce: 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped (or 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a small bowl, soak raisins in rum or apple juice for 10 minutes. Drain before using.
- Step 3:
- In a skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add breadcrumbs and toast until golden. Set aside to cool.
- Step 4:
- In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, soaked raisins, sugar, cinnamon, nuts, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss well.
- Step 5:
- Lay a phyllo sheet on a clean kitchen towel. Brush lightly with melted butter. Layer remaining sheets, brushing each with butter.
- Step 6:
- Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs evenly over the top phyllo sheet, leaving a 2-inch border.
- Step 7:
- Spoon the apple filling evenly along one short edge of the phyllo, leaving a 2-inch margin on sides.
- Step 8:
- Using the towel, gently roll up the strudel, tucking in the edges as you go. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the strudel with remaining melted butter.
- Step 9:
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
- Step 10:
- While the strudel bakes, prepare the vanilla sauce: Heat milk and vanilla bean (or extract) in a saucepan until steaming but not boiling. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until smooth. Slowly pour the hot milk into the yolk mixture, whisking constantly. Return to saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon (do not boil). Strain if desired.
- Step 11:
- Slice the strudel and serve warm with vanilla sauce.
Pin it Sharing this apple strudel at family gatherings has created many treasured memories and warm moments.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of whipped cream for an extra special treat.
Variations
Try substituting pears for apples or adding a handful of dried cherries for a twist on the classic.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving to maintain flakiness.
Pin it 
This apple strudel with vanilla sauce is sure to become a cherished dessert in your recipe collection.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of apples work best for this dish?
Tart apples such as Granny Smith are ideal because they hold their shape and provide a balanced tartness that complements the spices.
- → Can I prepare the pastry filling in advance?
Yes, the apple mixture can be made ahead and refrigerated, but it's best to assemble and bake the pastry shortly before serving for maximum freshness.
- → How do I prevent the phyllo dough from drying out?
Keep phyllo sheets covered with a damp towel while working and gently brush each layer with melted butter to maintain moisture and crispness during baking.
- → Is it possible to replace nuts for dietary restrictions?
You can omit nuts or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds to maintain texture without allergens.
- → How should the vanilla sauce be stored if not served immediately?
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently reheat over low heat, stirring constantly before serving.
- → What beverage pairs well with this dish?
A late harvest Riesling or a crisp apple cider complements the dessert's sweet and spiced flavors beautifully.