Name: Easy Apple Strudel Recipe with Filo Pastry Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Austrian
Ingredients: 6 – 7 Filo pastry sheets (9 x 14 inch sheets); 4 tbsp Unsalted butter, melted; 4 tbsp Breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts); 1 lb Apples (about 4 medium apples); 1 tbsp Lemon juice; 2 tbsp Fresh orange juice (or rum); ¼ tsp Kosher salt; ¾ cup Light brown sugar; ½ tsp Ground cinnamon; ¼ tsp Freshly grated nutmeg; ½ cup Chopped dried fruit (raisins, apricots, or cranberries); ½ cup Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts); 2 tbsp Powdered sugar (for dusting)

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There is nothing quite like indulging in a warm, flaky apple strudel that bursts with the sweet and spiced aroma of fresh fruit and nuts. This Easy Apple Strudel Recipe with Filo Pastry brings all those classic flavors together with the delicate crispness of paper-thin filo dough, making it a stunning dessert or snack that feels both impressive and effortlessly simple. Whether you’re sharing it around the table or sneaking a slice for yourself, this recipe is bound to become a beloved staple for cozy gatherings or anytime you crave that perfect balance of tender apples, warming spices, and crunchy, buttery layers.

Easy Apple Strudel Recipe with Filo Pastry Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is part of the fun and magic in creating this strudel. Each component plays a vital role—from the crisp apples that provide juicy freshness to the nuts and dried fruit that add texture and depth, all wrapped lovingly in crisp, buttery filo pastry sheets.

6 – 7 Filo pastry sheets (9 x 14 inch sheets): These delicate sheets are the star, creating that signature flaky crust.
4 tbsp Unsalted butter melted: Brushed between the filo layers to ensure crispness and a beautifully golden finish.
4 tbsp Breadcrumbs: Help soak up juices and keep the pastry from getting soggy.
1/4 cup Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts): Adds crunch and a nutty richness throughout.
1 lb Apples (4 apples): Fresh and crisp apples give this strudel its juicy, sweet heart.
1 tbsp Lemon juice: Balances the sweetness with a bright, tangy note and helps prevent browning.
2 tbsp Fresh orange juice (or rum): Adds a subtle citrus zing or warming depth if you prefer rum.
¼ tsp Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
¾ cup Brown sugar (light): Sweetens naturally while lending a rich molasses undertone.
½ tsp Cinnamon (powder): The perfect cozy spice that complements apples beautifully.
¼ tsp Nutmeg (fresh grated): Brings warmth and aromatic complexity.
½ cup Chopped dried fruit (raisins, apricots, or cranberry): Adds bursts of chewy sweetness and color.
½ cup Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts): More crunch inside to delight every bite.
2 tbsp Powdered sugar (for dusting): The final touch of sweetness and elegance on top.

How to Make Easy Apple Strudel Recipe with Filo Pastry

Step 1: Prepare your oven and apples

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, wash, peel, and core your apples. The slicing process might take a little time, but cutting each apple into thin, uniform slices ensures every bite is tender and perfectly cooked within the strudel.

Step 2: Mix the delicious apple filling

Combine the sliced apples with lemon juice, fresh orange juice or rum, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, chopped dried fruit, and nuts in a large bowl. This blend is where all the fantastic flavors come to life, marrying sweetness, spice, and a hint of tartness.

Step 3: Prepare the filo sheets

Open your filo pastry sheets carefully on a clean surface. Brush each sheet generously with melted butter to build that luscious, golden crispness and sprinkle a few chopped nuts or breadcrumbs onto each as you layer them. This method creates a beautifully textured crust that melts in your mouth.

Step 4: Assemble your apple strudel

Sprinkle the remaining breadcrumbs over the apple filling to absorb any excess moisture and keep the filo wonderfully flaky. Pile the apple mixture along one edge of the layered filo, leaving a small border so you can neatly fold and roll the pastry around the filling.

Step 5: Roll and seal the strudel

Fold the edges of the filo over the apples, then carefully roll the strudel into a tight parcel. Tuck the ends underneath to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking. This folding technique locks in all the goodness with a satisfying, golden crust.

Step 6: Bake until golden perfection

Place your strudel seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Give the top another brush of melted butter to enhance browning, then slide it into the oven to bake for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye out—once it turns a rich golden color, you know it’s ready.

Step 7: Cool and dust with powdered sugar

After baking, let the strudel cool for about five minutes on the tray to set. Then carefully transfer it to a plate and shower it with powdered sugar for that classic, irresistibly sweet finish.

How to Serve Easy Apple Strudel Recipe with Filo Pastry

Garnishes

Adding a little extra touch with garnishes instantly elevates your strudel. Consider a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the warm spices and flaky pastry. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top can also add flavor and flair.

Side Dishes

This apple strudel pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides like a simple green salad or a crisp apple and fennel slaw. For an indulgent treat, serve alongside rich custards or creamy cheeses like mascarpone to balance the tartness with softness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a striking presentation, slice the strudel into even pieces and arrange them on a rustic wooden platter with fresh apple slices and nuts scattered around. You can also serve it in individual portions wrapped in filo for a charming, single-serve twist that’s perfect for parties or brunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra strudel, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep the pastry crisp. Refrigerate leftovers for up to three days, but to maintain maximum flakiness, bringing it back to room temperature before reheating is ideal.

Freezing

Easy Apple Strudel Recipe with Filo Pastry freezes beautifully. After baking and cooling, wrap the whole strudel tightly in foil and place it in a freezer bag. It will keep for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To revive crispness, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it will make the filo soggy. A warm oven brings back that flaky, buttery texture we all crave.

FAQs

Can I use frozen filo pastry for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen filo pastry works perfectly, just make sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and handle it gently. Filo dries out quickly once exposed to air, so keep sheets covered with a damp towel while working.

What type of apples are best for making apple strudel?

Choose crisp, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. These hold their shape well during baking and provide a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.

Can I make this strudel vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the unsalted butter for a plant-based butter or margarine, and ensure your filo pastry contains no animal products. The rest of the filling is naturally vegan-friendly.

Is there a substitute for breadcrumbs in the recipe?

If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes or finely chopped nuts can work well to soak up excess moisture in the filling, keeping the pastry crisp.

How do I prevent the filo from tearing when assembling the strudel?

Filo is delicate, so work on a clean, dry surface and keep unused sheets covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out. Use gentle brush strokes with melted butter; avoid overhandling the sheets and handle each one carefully to avoid tears.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Apple Strudel Recipe with Filo Pastry is truly special—a perfect marriage of textures and flavors that will fill your kitchen with heavenly aromas and your heart with warmth. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved classic. So grab your apples, butter, and filo sheets, and treat yourself to this irresistibly delightful dessert. I promise, it will become one of your favorite easy-to-make, show-stopping treats.

Easy Apple Strudel Recipe with Filo Pastry Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 9 reviews

Author: Julian
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This easy apple strudel recipe features flaky filo pastry filled with a spiced apple, nut, and dried fruit mixture. A deliciously crisp and golden dessert with a tender, aromatic apple filling enhanced by cinnamon, nutmeg, and citrus juices. Perfect for a cozy treat or festive gathering.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C/Gas Mark 5) to ensure it’s ready for baking the strudel to a perfect golden crisp.
Prepare Apples: Wash, peel, and core the apples. Cut each apple in half, then quarters, and finally slice each quarter into three thin slices for an even, tender filling.
Make Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with lemon juice, orange juice or rum, kosher salt, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, chopped dried fruit, and chopped nuts. Mix thoroughly to blend all flavors. Cover with plastic wrap and set aside to marinate.
Prepare Filo Pastry: Lay out the filo sheets on a clean work surface. Brush each sheet with melted butter and sprinkle with some chopped nuts or breadcrumbs, layering them one by one, ideally opening the sheets like an open book for ease.
Add Filling: Add the remaining breadcrumbs to the apple mixture and stir well. Spoon the filling onto one side of the layered filo pastry, leaving about two inches free around the edges to allow folding and rolling.
Fold and Roll: Fold the edges of the filo over the apple filling to enclose it securely. Then carefully roll the strudel, tucking the edges underneath to seal and prevent it from opening during baking.
Bake: Transfer the strudel seam-side down onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush the top with melted butter and bake in the center rack of the oven for about 30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
Cool and Dust: Remove the strudel from the oven and let it cool on the baking tray for 5 minutes before transferring it to a serving platter. Once cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve your delicious homemade apple strudel warm or at room temperature. Enjoy this delightful treat with tea or coffee!

Notes

Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced sweetness and acidity in the filling.
Handle filo pastry gently as it dries out quickly; cover unused sheets with a damp cloth.
Chilling the filling for 30 minutes enhances flavors but is optional.
For added richness, serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Strudel can be stored covered at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerated up to 2 days.
Reheat in a low oven to restore crispness if served later.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Austrian