Grandma’s Apple Strudel

Introduction

Grandma’s Apple Strudel is a timeless dessert that brings back memories of cozy kitchens and the sweet aroma of apples and cinnamon baking in the oven. This slab-style strudel is inspired by old-fashioned bakery treats, rolled and layered like a classic jelly roll rather than made with delicate phyllo dough. The crust is tender, flaky, and rich thanks to shortening and egg yolks, while the apple filling bakes into a perfectly spiced, jammy center. The final touch—a simple glaze poured over the strudel while it’s still hot—soaks in just enough to keep every bite moist, flavorful, and irresistibly nostalgic.

Ingredients

Apple Filling

• Apples, peeled and sliced – 6 cups

• Granulated sugar – 1 cup

• All-purpose flour – 1/2 cup

• Ground cinnamon – 1 tsp

Flaky Crust

• All-purpose flour – 3 3/4 cups

• Shortening – 1 1/2 cups

• Egg yolks – 2

• Water – enough to equal 1 cup when combined with yolks

• Granulated sugar – 1 tbsp

• Salt – 1/2 tsp

• Egg white (reserved) – 1

Thin Glaze

• Powdered sugar – 1 cup

• Milk or light cream – 2 tbsp

• Vanilla extract – 1/2 tsp

Instructions

Step 1: Macerate the Apples

In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with the granulated sugar, flour, and cinnamon until evenly coated. Set aside while you prepare the dough. This resting time allows the apples to release their juices, which will thicken into a rich, flavorful filling during baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces. In a measuring cup, combine the egg yolks and enough water to equal 1 cup. Stir this mixture into the flour until a soft dough forms. Divide the dough evenly into two portions.

Step 3: Form the Bottom Crust

Roll one portion of dough into a large rectangle. Transfer it to a greased 10×15-inch jelly roll pan, pressing the dough into the corners and slightly up the sides to create a shallow crust that will hold the apple filling.

Step 4: Add Filling and Top Crust

Spread the apple mixture evenly over the bottom crust. Roll out the second portion of dough and carefully place it over the apples. Pinch the edges together to seal. Brush the top with the reserved egg white and cut 4–5 small slits in the surface to allow steam to escape.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 45–60 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the apple juices are bubbling through the vents.

Step 6: Glaze While Hot

Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Pour the glaze evenly over the hot strudel as soon as it comes out of the oven. Allow the strudel to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Apple Strudel is more than just a dessert—it’s a comforting tradition baked into every layer. With its flaky crust, warmly spiced apple filling, and sweet glaze that melts into the pastry, this strudel is perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or a cozy weekend treat. Serve it on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly classic, homemade dessert everyone will love.

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