πππ₯ Apple-Cranberry Strudel: A Delightful German Dessert π©πͺ
What is Apple-Cranberry Strudel?
Apple-Cranberry Strudel is a delectable German pastry filled with a sweet and tart mixture of apples and cranberries, wrapped in layers of thin, flaky pastry dough. It’s a beloved dessert known for its rich flavors and satisfying textures.
History:
The origins of strudel can be traced back to Austria and Hungary, with the word “strudel” itself coming from the German word “Strudel,” which means “whirlpool” or “eddy.” It was likely influenced by Turkish baklava and made its way into Austrian and German cuisine over the centuries. The apple strudel, in particular, gained popularity in Austria and later in Germany. It has become an iconic dessert in the region and is enjoyed worldwide.
Components:
The key components of Apple-Cranberry Strudel include:
- Thin sheets of phyllo or strudel dough (flaky pastry dough)
- Apples (commonly tart varieties like Granny Smith)
- Cranberries (dried or fresh)
- Sugar
- Cinnamon
- Lemon zest
- Breadcrumbs (to absorb excess moisture and add texture)
- Butter (for brushing the pastry)
Steps to Prepare Apple-Cranberry Strudel:
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Prepare the Filling:
- Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the apple slices, cranberries, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon zest. Toss to coat evenly.
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Assemble the Strudel:
- Lay out a sheet of phyllo or strudel dough on a clean, flat surface.
- Brush it with melted butter to prevent it from becoming too dry.
- Continue layering and buttering sheets until you have a stack of 4-6 sheets.
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Add the Filling:
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top sheet to absorb any excess moisture from the filling.
- Spoon the apple-cranberry mixture along one edge of the dough, leaving some space at the sides.
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Roll and Seal:
- Carefully roll the dough and filling into a log, tucking in the sides as you go to enclose the filling.
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Bake:
- Place the strudel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam side down.
- Brush the top with more melted butter for a golden crust.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375Β°F (190Β°C) for about 30-40 minutes or until it’s golden brown and crispy.
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Serve:
- Once baked, let it cool slightly before slicing into portions.
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm. It’s often served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Time Needed:
The preparation and baking of an Apple-Cranberry Strudel typically take around 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on your experience with handling the pastry dough and the efficiency of your work in assembling the strudel.
Enjoy your homemade Apple-Cranberry Strudel, and may it fill your kitchen with the sweet aroma of this classic German dessert! πππ₯π
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Apple-Cranberry Strudel:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values for a Typical Serving):
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of a strudel)
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories per slice
- Total Fat: 12-15 grams
- Saturated Fat: 5-7 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Cholesterol: Approximately 15-20 milligrams
- Sodium: Approximately 150-200 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Sugars: 15-20 grams
- Protein: 2-3 grams
Health Information:
- Apple-Cranberry Strudel is a delicious dessert but is considered a high-calorie and high-sugar treat due to the pastry dough and sugar content.
- While it contains some dietary fiber from the apples and cranberries, it is not a significant source of fiber.
- The saturated fat content in strudel comes from butter used for brushing the pastry, so it’s advisable to consume it in moderation if you’re watching your saturated fat intake.
- The sugar content is mainly from added sugar, which can contribute to excess calorie intake if consumed in large quantities.
Tips for Enjoying in Moderation:
- Portion control is key. Enjoy a small slice rather than a large portion to manage calorie intake.
- Balance your meal. If you indulge in strudel, consider having a lighter meal with plenty of fruits and vegetables earlier in the day.
- Pair with healthier options. Serve with a side of fresh berries or a small scoop of low-fat yogurt to add some nutrition to your dessert.
Remember, while Apple-Cranberry Strudel is a delightful treat, it’s best enjoyed occasionally as part of a balanced diet.