Classic Croatian Apple Strudel Recipe

There are some recipes that transcend time and bring back fond memories with every bite. The classic Croatian apple strudel is one such recipe – a timeless dessert that has stood the test of time and remained a beloved favorite amongst Croatians for generations.

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The History Behind the Classic Croatian Apple Strudel

The first known mention of apple strudel dates back to the 17th century in a handwritten recipe collection from Vienna, Austria. However, this delectable dessert did not reach Croatia until the 18th century.

Croatia has a rich culinary history influenced by various cultures and traditions, and the classic Croatian apple strudel is a perfect example of this fusion. Croatians adopted and adapted the dish, and today, it is an essential part of their culinary heritage.

Why You Will Love This Apple Strudel Recipe

One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a mouth-watering dessert that will impress even the most discerning palates. The flaky pastry, sweet apple filling, and warm spices come together to create a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more.

Moreover, making this classic Croatian apple strudel is a labor of love. The process may seem daunting at first, but with a little bit of practice and patience, you will soon be able to recreate this traditional recipe in your own kitchen.

Ingredients Needed

Dough

• 3.5 cups flour, all-purpose Robin Hood preferred
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil (or canola) + 2 tbsp oil 
• 1 egg
• 1 cup warm water + 2 tbsp warm water

Filling

• 4 shredded apples, cooking apples
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp vanilla sugar
• ½ cup crushed digestive cookies, any dried cookies (or use bread crumbs – but need more sugar if not using cookies)

How to Make a Classic Croatian Apple Strudel

Preparing the Strudel Pastry

You can find our recipe for how to make strudel pastry dough here or you can use a filo pastry instead of making pastry from scratch. You will need 3 sheets of filo dough to fill one baking sheet of strudel.

Preparing the Filling

Saute shredded apples in a pan with butter, cinnamon,  and sugars for about 4 minutes. 

Transfer to another bowl and leave to cool. 

Sprinkle crushed cookies (or bread crumbs) over top of butter dough.

Spread the filling over the top of the dough, on the side closest to you, about ¼ of the pastry covered. 

Use your fingers to begin rolling the edges along the side with the filling. Then lift the cloth to continue rolling tightly the strudel into a long rectangular shape.

Transfer to a greased pan.

Bake 390F for 23 minutes and check if golden color. Place on middle rack.

Additionally, you can sprinkle powdered sugar on top if it is not sweet enough.

Keep the dough recipe the same and substitute the filling with cottage cheese or sour cherry. Check out these recipes for their baking time:

Take A Step Back In Time

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the latest food trends and forget about the simplicity and beauty of traditional recipes. The classic Croatian apple strudel is a reminder of the rich cultural heritage and legacy that has been passed down through generations.

So why not take a step back in time and savor the flavors of tradition with this delicious recipe? Your taste buds will thank you! Whether it’s for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this classic Croatian apple strudel is sure to become a family favorite.

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