Stage 1: Prepare the Dough
- Mix the Dough Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, vegetable oil, and warm water. If using, add the vinegar to the mixture. Mix until the dough comes together.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You may need to add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- Rest the Dough: Once kneaded, form the dough into a ball and coat it lightly with oil. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 1 hour at room temperature. Resting the dough makes it easier to roll out later.
Stage 2: Prepare the Filling
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Place the sliced apples in a large mixing bowl.
- Add Flavorings: To the apples, add the sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), raisin, walnuts, and lemon juice. Mix gently to combine.
- Thicken the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little water to form a slurry, then add it to the apple mixture to help thicken the filling as it cooks.
- Toast the Breadcrumbs: In a small pan, melt 1 tablespoon butter and lightly toast the breadcrumbs over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
Stage 3: Roll and Assemble the Strudel
- Roll Out the Dough: After the dough has rested, turn it out onto a large, lightly floured table or countertop. Roll the dough into a thin rectangle, about 16×24 inches. You want the dough to be thin enough that you can see the surface beneath it.To make rolling easier, you can stretch the dough with your hands by gently pulling and stretching it from the center outwards. You can use a cloth to help lift and stretch the dough if needed.
- Spread the Breadcrumbs: Once the dough is rolled out, brush it with melted butter and then spread the toasted breadcrumbs evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Add the Apple Filling: Place the apple mixture along the edge of the dough closest to you, leaving a border at the top and sides. The apple filling should be piled high but spread evenly.
- Roll the Strudel: Carefully lift the edge of the dough closest to you and begin rolling it tightly over the filling, using the cloth to help roll it if necessary. Tuck in the edges as you go to make a secure, tight roll.
- Seal and Brush: Once rolled, carefully transfer the strudel to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the top with melted butter to help achieve a golden, crisp crust.
Stage 4: Bake the Strudel
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the Strudel: Place the assembled strudel in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
- Cool the Strudel: Once baked, remove the strudel from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Stage 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once cooled slightly, dust the top of the Apfelstrudel with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
- Serve: Slice the strudel into generous portions and serve warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side.
Additional Tips and Variations:
- Make-Ahead: You can assemble the strudel ahead of time and freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Dairy-Free Version: For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use non-dairy milk for the filling if needed.
- Flavor Variations: Add a splash of rum or bourbon to the filling for extra depth of flavor, or use different fruits like pears or cherries for a variation on the classic.
Conclusion
German Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel) is a deliciously comforting dessert that blends the flavors of sweet apples, cinnamon, and flaky pastry into a warm and satisfying treat. Whether you serve it with ice cream, whipped cream, or enjoy it on its own, this classic dessert is sure to bring joy to any gathering. Its beautiful presentation and irresistible flavor make it a perfect choice for holidays, family dinners, or any occasion when you want to enjoy a slice of traditional German sweetness.