This Austrian Apple Strudel Is Making Us Swoon
Image Credit: Freepik

Apple strudel, also known as Apfel strudel, is a traditional Austrian delicacy that has a special place in the hearts of the Austrian people. It's also one of the most popular apple desserts ever.  As you may know, Austria is recognised not only for its breathtaking scenery and winter snow sports, but also for its delectable traditional cuisine. 

One of them is this Apple strudel. It's a sweet treat made of dough with an apple, bread crumbs, butter, sugar, cinnamon, and raisin filling. Isn't it fantastic?  Apple strudel is a popular dessert not only in Austria, but also around the world. Apple strudel is a popular and well-liked dessert that may be found in almost any bakery, cafe, or kitchen in any country or any corner of the world. It is a very common dessert.  

Apple strudel is one of the oldest desserts still in existence, according to sources. A handwritten recipe for Apple strudel from the year 1697 can still be found in the Town Hall Library in Vienna. It's hard to believe, isn't it? That anything written so long ago, and that too a recipe, has survived. However, this dessert became famous in the 18th century throughout the Austro-Hungarian empire, and many people feel that many different cultures contributed to its success and popularity.  

Image source-Freepik

A dessert as old as this is likely to be adored by all and will continue to be adored by future generations as well. Baklava, another well-known Turkish sweet treat, is frequently compared to apple strudel. Both have intricate and complex pastry structure with thin pastries and intricate filling methods.  

Because the swirling complicated design gives it the appearance of being a whirlpool, many people mistakenly believe that Apple strudel is a German dish when it is actually 100% Austrian. Strudel is a German word which means ‘whirlpool’.  Though there are both sweet and savoury strudels, the sweet ones with apples, known as 'apple strudel' or 'Apfel strudel,' are the most popular. 

The short-crust pastry used as a shell is the most complicated but crucial aspect of this recipe.When preparing it, be careful and very patient because the shell is the dessert's entire soul. Apple, butter, raisins, and almonds (soaked in liquor) are the most popular fillings, but people are also experimenting with various fillings like apricots, walnuts, and chocolates. 

 Despite the fact that the strudel can be made in a variety of ways, the basic recipe stays the same. Although apple strudel is delicious on its own, you can always top it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. You might serve them with fresh sliced fruits, fruit jams, or even fruit sauce.  

This delightful dessert looks lovely on a platter and goes well with tea or coffee in the evening.  So, go out cafe hopping and order an apple strudel with your cup of coffee, or if you're feeling very adventurous, try making it from scratch at home.