Apple Strudel Recipe With Cherry Stripe Icing

I simply love how this apple strudel recipe with Cherry Stripe Icing transforms simple ingredients into something truly special for my family.

This is the perfect dessert for busy parents and home bakers, bringing cozy delight to your family table with surprisingly little effort. Imagine the delightful aroma of warm apples and spices filling your kitchen, with crisp edges and a sweet, tender filling. This tried-and-true recipe has been a hit in our home for years, making it an ideal family-friendly treat for any occasion.

Ingredient Essentials for Your Apple Strudel (with Measurements & Roles)

To craft this delightful and hearty apple strudel recipe with Cherry Stripe Icing, gather these essentials:

For the Delicious Apple Strudel Filling

• Fresh Apples: 4 cups (approx. 960g) sliced; crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp offer the best tart-sweet balance.
• Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup (100g); sweetens the apples.
• Ground Cinnamon & Nutmeg: 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg; provides warm, comforting spice notes.
• Lemon Juice: 1 tbsp (15ml); brightens flavors and prevents apple browning.
• Raisins or Dried Cranberries (optional): 1/4 cup (35g); adds a pleasant chewy texture (I often grab dried cranberries if they’re handy).

For the Flaky Strudel Dough

• Store-Bought Puff Pastry: 1 sheet (approx. 10×15 inches / 25×38 cm); a fantastic shortcut for flaky perfection. I always use chilled puff pastry for easier handling and a crisper result. (For a gluten-free apple strudel, use a GF puff pastry sheet).
• Unsalted Butter: 2 tbsp (30g) melted; brushed on for richness and a golden crust.
• Plain Breadcrumbs: 1/4 cup (30g); absorbs apple moisture, preventing a soggy pastry bottom.

For the Sweet Cherry Stripe Icing

• Powdered Sugar: 1 cup (120g); creates a smooth, sweet icing base.
• Milk or Water: 1-2 tbsp (15-30ml); adjust for desired drizzle-able consistency.
• Cherry Extract: 1/2 tsp; delivers that distinct, lovely cherry flavor. (Vanilla or almond extract can be used for a flavor twist.)
• Red Food Coloring (optional): A few drops; enhances the vibrant “Cherry Stripe” appearance of this apple strudel recipe with Cherry Stripe Icing.

Beyond the core recipe, feel free to customize! Swap apples for firm pears, or add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for extra texture. For the icing, raspberry or almond extract works well if cherry isn’t on hand. This is a wonderfully adaptable recipe for quick meals or family dinners.

Choose firm, blemish-free apples for the best filling texture. Good quality unsalted butter and fresh, aromatic spices make a noticeable difference in the final taste. Using organic ingredients whenever possible elevates this easy, hearty dessert experience.

Baking Your Apple Strudel Step-by-Step

Ready to bake? This streamlined process brings a warm, comforting dessert to your table with satisfying results. This apple strudel recipe with Cherry Stripe Icing is designed for home cooks of all levels.

1. Prepare the Apple Filling: Combine apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and dried fruits in a large bowl. Toss gently. Let sit 10 minutes (apples will release juice, melding flavors).

2. Prep the Pastry: Unroll puff pastry onto a floured surface. Brush with 2 tablespoons melted butter, then sprinkle evenly with 1/4 cup breadcrumbs. This creates a moisture barrier and adds crispness.

3. Fill and Roll: Mound apple filling along one long pastry edge, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border. Roll pastry tightly, forming a log. Keep snug; don’t tear dough. If pastry looks dry, warm gently with hands before proceeding.

4. Bake to Golden Perfection: Transfer strudel, seam-side down, to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush top with any remaining melted butter. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes until golden brown, puffed, and aromatic.

5. Make the Cherry Stripe Icing: While strudel cools, whisk powdered sugar, milk (or water), cherry extract, and optional red food coloring in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth, drizzle-able. This vibrant addition makes our apple strudel recipe with Cherry Stripe Icing a showstopper.

6. Drizzle & Serve: Cool apple strudel for 15-20 minutes on the baking sheet. Drizzle icing generously over top (cooling ensures it sets). Slice and serve warm, enjoying this satisfying family-friendly dessert! This classic apple strudel is perfect with coffee.

Having trouble? Here are some quick fixes:

• Soggy bottom? Ensure apples release some juice before baking and always include the breadcrumbs layer.
• Pastry cracking? Avoid overfilling the strudel; roll gently and evenly.

Perfect Serving Moments & Pairings

This delightful apple strudel recipe with Cherry Stripe Icing isn’t just a dessert; it’s a versatile treat perfect for many family occasions. Its comforting flavors make it a favorite at any gathering.

Ideal Occasions

Perfect for cozy Sunday dinners, an impressive yet easy dessert for potlucks, or a special weekend breakfast treat. It’s a wonderful family-friendly addition to your meal rotation.

Suggested Pairings

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, a dollop of fresh whipped cream, or a mug of hot coffee or tea. These simple additions enhance the experience of this comforting pastry.

Seasonal Fit

A comforting dessert perfect for fall and winter gatherings, but delightful any time you crave a sweet apple treat. Its warm spices are always a welcome taste.

Storage, Leftovers & Make-Ahead Tips

Make meal prep easy by knowing how to properly store and reheat your delicious apple strudel, ensuring you can enjoy it for days.

How Long It Keeps

Store leftover apple strudel in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing.

Best Containers & Reheating

A firm, sealed container keeps it fresh. Reheat slices in a toaster oven or oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave briefly for softer results.

Batch Cooking & Make-Ahead Variations

You can assemble this apple strudel ahead of time (without baking) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Freeze unbaked strudel for up to 1 month; bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to cook time. This is a great meal prep recipe.

Recipe Benefits Aligned with Busy Family Meals

Our apple strudel recipe with Cherry Stripe Icing offers fantastic advantages for home cooks seeking both ease and deliciousness.

Time-Saving & Easy Prep

• Effortless assembly thanks to store-bought puff pastry.
• Minimal ingredients mean less fuss and quicker shopping trips.
• Enjoy a homemade, hearty dessert on the table in under an hour.

Hearty & Comforting

The warm, spiced apple filling enveloped in flaky pastry makes for a truly satisfying family treat. It’s a perfect way to end any meal, leaving everyone feeling content and happy.

Pro-Level Adjustments & Safety Notes for Your Apple Strudel

Elevate your baking and ensure a safe, delicious outcome with these expert tips and considerations for your apple strudel.

Technique Upgrades

• For extra flavor, lightly toast the breadcrumbs in a little butter before sprinkling.
• Brush the pastry with an egg wash (1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp water) before baking for a glossy, extra-crisp finish.

Dietary Adjustments

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free puff pastry for a GF apple strudel.
• Dairy-Free: Swap butter for a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free milk for the icing.
• Lower Sugar: Reduce sugar in the filling or use a sugar substitute to your taste.

Safety Cautions

Ensure apples are cooked through to a tender texture. Always store any leftover apple strudel promptly in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and safety.

Common Questions Answered About Apple Strudel

Q: Can I use different fruits in this strudel recipe?

Absolutely! Pears, berries, or a mix of stone fruits can be wonderful in a strudel. Adjust sweetness as needed for different fruits. This makes the recipe versatile for healthy eating.

Q: How can I ensure my apple strudel pastry gets extra flaky?

Use high-quality cold puff pastry and avoid overhandling. I always make sure to use really cold puff pastry, and I’ve found that chilling the assembled apple strudel for 15 minutes before baking really helps achieve those distinct, crisp layers.

Q: What if I don’t have cherry extract for the icing?

You can use a few drops of red food coloring with vanilla extract for color and a general sweet flavor, or try a different fruit extract you have on hand. Raspberry or almond are good choices.

Q: Can I prepare the apple filling the day before?

Yes, you can mix the apple filling ingredients the day before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Drain any excess liquid before assembling your apple strudel for the best results.

Q: My apple strudel looks pale, what should I do?

If it’s not browning sufficiently, try brushing with more melted butter or an egg wash, and extend baking time slightly, keeping a close eye on it. Oven temperatures can vary.

Q: Is it possible to make smaller, individual apple strudels?

Yes, simply cut your puff pastry sheet into smaller rectangles before filling and rolling for charming mini apple strudels. Adjust baking time down by a few minutes.

Conclusion

This easy apple strudel recipe with Cherry Stripe Icing is a true winner for any family meal—simple, hearty, and utterly delicious, making it a perfect choice for quick meals and family dinners. Pin this recipe for later or share it with a friend who loves sweet treats!

Print