June 17th marks National Apple Strudel Day, granting us a delightful reason to savor this sweet treat. Apple strudel, a Viennese dessert, comprises thinly rolled dough sheets filled with apples, sugar, and various spices. Renowned globally, it's relished both as a breakfast item and an evening dessert, often paired with coffee or tea during snack time. Enhance its flavor with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of icing sugar/cinnamon. While known as 'Apfelstrudel' in Austria, this dish can also take on a savory twist by replacing apples with spinach, cabbage, or other vegetables and herbs. The term 'strudel,' derived from German, translates to whirlpool or eddy.

What is Apple Strudel?

Apple strudel (known as "Apfelstrudel" in German) is a traditional pastry that is most commonly associated with Austria, especially as a part of Viennese cuisine. It consists of a thin, layered dough wrapped around a filling of spiced apples, raisins, sugar, and breadcrumbs, and is often served with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Apple strudel is renowned for its delicate, flaky crust and the contrast of the slightly tart apple filling with the sweet pastry. The dough is stretched so thin that you can almost see through it, giving the pastry its signature light and flaky texture.

History of Apple Strudel

The origins of apple strudel date back to the Austro-Hungarian Empire in the 17th century, although its culinary roots can be traced even further back to Middle Eastern baklava, which also features a thin, layered dough. The word "strudel" itself means "whirlpool" in German, referring to the rolled appearance of the pastry, which resembles a swirling whirlpool when cut into slices.

Over time, apple strudel became a beloved dessert in Austria, Germany, and other parts of Europe. It eventually made its way to the United States with European immigrants, especially those of Austrian, German, or Hungarian descent, who brought the recipe with them. Today, apple strudel is a staple in many bakeries and kitchens around the world, and it holds a special place in the hearts of dessert lovers everywhere.

How to Celebrate National Apple Strudel Day

1. Bake Apple Strudel at Home: One of the best ways to celebrate National Apple Strudel Day is by baking your own apple strudel. While making traditional strudel dough requires skill and patience, there are many modern recipes that use store-bought filo dough or puff pastry to simplify the process. The filling typically consists of apples, cinnamon, sugar, and sometimes nuts or raisins.

2. Visit a Bakery: Many European-style bakeries sell apple strudel, especially around National Apple Strudel Day. Treat yourself to a fresh, authentic apple strudel from a local bakery or café. You can also pair it with coffee or tea for a classic afternoon treat.

3. Try Different Variations: While apple is the most traditional filling, there are many variations of strudel you can try, including cherry, apricot, or cheese strudel. On National Apple Strudel Day, why not explore these other versions of the pastry?

4. Learn About Strudel-Making: If you're feeling adventurous, use National Apple Strudel Day as an opportunity to dive into the art of making traditional strudel dough. It requires careful stretching and rolling, but the reward is a beautifully flaky and delicate pastry that is light and crisp.

5. Share with Friends and Family: Baking or buying apple strudel and sharing it with loved ones is a wonderful way to celebrate this holiday. The delicious combination of spiced apples and pastry is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Fun Facts About Apple Strudel

• Austrian National Dish: Apple strudel is considered one of Austria's national dishes and is often served in restaurants and cafes in Vienna.
• Special Dough: Traditional strudel dough is stretched so thin that it’s said you should be able to read a newspaper through it.
• Global Popularity: While it originated in Austria, apple strudel is popular in many countries, including Germany, Hungary, the Czech Republic, and even parts of Italy.
• The “Strudel Show”: In Vienna, Austria, visitors to the Schönbrunn Palace can attend a "Strudel Show," where professional bakers demonstrate how to make traditional Viennese apple strudel.

Classic Apple Strudel Recipe

A traditional apple strudel consists of a few key components: the dough, the apple filling, and a few finishing touches like powdered sugar. Here’s a simple version of the recipe:

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/8 tsp salt
  • ½ cup lukewarm water
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • ½ tsp vinegar
• For the Filling:
  • 6 tart apples (Granny Smith or similar), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/3 cup raisins
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs, toasted in butter
  • ¼ cup melted butter
• For the Finish:
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Make the Dough: Combine the flour and salt in a mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, mix the water, oil, and vinegar. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and knead the dough until smooth. Let the dough rest for at least 1 hour.

2. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the apples, sugar, cinnamon, and raisins. Set aside.

3. Roll Out the Dough: On a clean, floured surface, roll out the dough as thin as possible. Traditional strudel dough should be so thin you can see through it. You can also use a sheet of store-bought filo dough or puff pastry to save time.

4. Assemble the Strudel: Brush the dough with melted butter and sprinkle the breadcrumbs over it. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Gently roll up the dough, folding the sides as you go to keep the filling inside.

5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the rolled strudel on a baking sheet, seam-side down. Brush the top with more melted butter. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

6. Serve: Let the strudel cool slightly before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Health Benefits of Apples

While apple strudel is definitely a sweet treat, it does offer some health benefits due to its apple content:

• Rich in Fiber: Apples are a great source of dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion.
• Antioxidants: Apples contain antioxidants like vitamin C, which help protect the body from oxidative stress.
• Low in Calories: On their own, apples are a low-calorie fruit, making them a healthy addition to many diets.

Conclusion

National Apple Strudel Day is the perfect opportunity to indulge in one of Europe’s most famous pastries. Whether you bake your own strudel, pick one up from a local bakery, or enjoy it at a café, this day is all about celebrating the wonderful combination of spiced apples and flaky dough. So, on June 17th, treat yourself to a slice of apple strudel and savor the flavors of this classic dessert!