Heavenly Hand-Pulled Apple Strudel
Step back in time with this delightful recipe for Heavenly Hand-Pulled Apple Strudel, a cherished dish that evokes the heartwarming memories of our grandmothers’ kitchens. This strudel, made from a delicate, almost translucent dough, envelops sweet, tart apples seasoned with just the right amount of cinnamon and sugar, creating a divine contrast of flavors and textures. With a golden-brown, flaky exterior and a luscious, buttery interior, each bite is a nostalgic journey that will impress your family and friends. Ideal for gatherings or a cozy evening at home, this recipe captures the essence of tradition while inviting you to master the art of strudel-making. Embrace the challenge and create something truly special!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
All-purpose flour
8 cups (Sifted)
Large eggs
2 (Beaten)
Vegetable oil
2 tablespoons (For dough and brushing)
Warm water
2.5 cups (Approximately 110°F (43°C))
Salt
1 pinch
Tart apples (e.g., Granny Smith)
8-10 (Peeled, cored and sliced)
Granulated sugar
To taste
Ground cinnamon
To taste
Melted butter
For dotting
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, eggs, oil, warm water, and a pinch of salt to form a soft dough.
2
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3
Once kneaded, divide the dough into three equal parts, rolling each portion into a ball.
4
Brush each ball of dough with a bit of oil, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rest for 45 minutes.
5
After resting, prepare a clean tablecloth on a large table. On a floured surface, roll one dough ball as thin as possible.
6
With clean hands, gently push the dough outward, using your knuckles to stretch it evenly in a circular motion until it reaches a paper-thin consistency.
7
Brush the stretched dough generously with melted butter, ensuring it remains moist.
8
Once the dough is thin, trim the heavy edges to create a uniform rectangle.
9
Evenly distribute the peeled and sliced tart apples across the dough, sprinkling sugar, cinnamon, and any optional nuts on top. Drizzle a little melted butter to add richness.
10
Carefully fold the edges of the tablecloth over the dough, creating a frame. Starting from one side, lift the tablecloth and gently roll the dough into a tight log, sealing the edges as you go.
11
Transfer the rolled strudel to a buttered baking pan and repeat with the remaining dough balls.
12
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45–55 minutes, or until the strudel is golden brown and fragrant.
13
Allow the strudel to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Heavenly Hand-Pulled Apple Strudel?
It is a traditional dessert made from a delicate, paper-thin dough that envelops sweet and tart apples seasoned with cinnamon and sugar.
Which apples are best for this strudel recipe?
Tart apples, such as Granny Smith, are recommended for the best flavor contrast.
How long should the dough be kneaded?
The dough should be kneaded on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
How long does the dough need to rest before stretching?
The dough balls should rest for 45 minutes covered with a clean kitchen towel.
What is the ideal temperature for the warm water used in the dough?
The water should be approximately 110°F (43°C).
How should the dough balls be prepared for resting?
Each of the three dough balls should be brushed with a bit of oil before being covered.
Into how many portions is the dough divided?
The dough is divided into three equal parts.
What consistency should the stretched dough reach?
The dough should be stretched until it reaches a paper-thin, almost translucent consistency.
How do you stretch the dough without tearing it?
Gently push the dough outward using your knuckles in a circular motion.
What should be done with the heavy edges of the stretched dough?
You should trim the heavy edges to create a uniform rectangle before adding the filling.
Why is melted butter applied to the stretched dough?
Brushing with melted butter ensures the dough remains moist and adds a rich flavor.
What are the primary filling ingredients?
The filling consists of peeled and sliced tart apples, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and optional nuts.
Can nuts be included in the apple strudel filling?
Yes, optional nuts can be sprinkled on top of the apples for added texture.
What is the secret to rolling the strudel tightly?
Using a clean tablecloth to lift and roll the dough into a log helps keep it tight and intact.
At what temperature should the oven be preheated?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How long does the strudel need to bake?
It typically bakes for 45 to 55 minutes.
How can you tell when the strudel is finished baking?
The strudel is done when it is golden brown and fragrant.
What is the best way to serve Heavenly Hand-Pulled Apple Strudel?
Serve it warm, dusted with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
How much flour is required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 8 cups of sifted all-purpose flour.
How many eggs are used in the dough?
Two large beaten eggs are required for the dough mixture.
What kind of oil is used in the dough?
Vegetable oil is used both in the dough and for brushing the surface.
What preparation is needed for the apples?
The 8-10 tart apples should be peeled, cored, and sliced.
Should you add extra butter to the filling?
Yes, you should drizzle a little melted butter over the apple mixture to add richness.
What kind of surface is needed for rolling the dough?
A large table covered with a clean tablecloth is recommended for rolling and stretching.
How do you transfer the rolled strudel to the baking pan?
Carefully lift the rolled log and place it into a buttered baking pan.
What should the baking pan be prepared with?
The baking pan should be buttered to prevent sticking and add flavor.
Should the strudel be sliced immediately after baking?
No, allow the strudel to cool slightly before slicing to ensure it holds its shape.
What gives the strudel its flaky texture?
The combination of the paper-thin dough layers and the generous use of melted butter creates a flaky exterior.
Is this recipe considered a traditional dish?
Yes, it is described as a cherished, traditional recipe that evokes memories of grandmothers' kitchens.
What spice provides the primary flavor for the apple filling?
Ground cinnamon is the primary spice used to season the apples.