Frequently Asked Questions
What is Decadent Cinnamon Raisin Apple Strudel?
It is a simplified German-inspired dessert featuring a filling of sweet apples and raisins wrapped in flaky, buttery phyllo dough.
Which apple varieties are best for this strudel recipe?
Jonagold, Gala, and Pink Lady are recommended, though other firm baking apples can also be used.
How many sheets of phyllo dough are required?
The recipe calls for a stack of 6 sheets of phyllo dough.
What is the initial preheating temperature for the oven?
The oven should be preheated to 450°F (230°C) with the rack in the middle position.
How should the apples be prepared before mixing?
The apples should be halved, cored, and cut crosswise into thin 1/8-inch slices.
What ingredients are used to season the apple filling?
The filling is seasoned with granulated sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt.
How do you prevent the strudel filling from being too watery?
One tablespoon of cornstarch is added to the fruit mixture to help thicken the juices as they bake.
How should the phyllo dough sheets be layered?
Lay the first sheet horizontally, brush with melted butter, and repeat until all 6 sheets are stacked.
Where should the apple-raisin mixture be placed on the dough?
Spread the mixture evenly along the center of the phyllo stack.
What size border should be left when spreading the filling?
A 1.5-inch border should be left on the top and sides to allow for proper folding and sealing.
How should the strudel be placed on the baking sheet?
The strudel should be placed seam-side down onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Why are slits cut into the top of the dough?
Four diagonal slits are cut into the phyllo to allow steam to escape during the baking process.
How long does the strudel bake at the initial high temperature?
It bakes at 450°F for approximately 10 minutes until it begins to turn golden brown.
What is the second baking temperature?
After the initial 10 minutes, the oven temperature is reduced to 350°F (175°C).
How long does the strudel bake at 350°F?
It continues to bake for an additional 30 to 40 minutes at the lower temperature.
How do you determine if the strudel is fully cooked?
The strudel is done when the pastry is golden brown, the apples are fork-tender, and juices are bubbling at the edges.
How long should the strudel cool before it is sliced?
It should cool for at least 10 minutes to allow the filling to set slightly before serving.
What is the calorie count for a serving of this strudel?
One serving of the strudel contains approximately 155 calories.
How much fat is in one serving?
Each serving contains about 9 grams of fat.
What is the carbohydrate content per serving?
There are 17 grams of carbohydrates in a single serving.
How much protein is provided in a serving?
This dessert provides approximately 1 gram of protein per serving.
How much butter is needed for this recipe?
The recipe requires 8 tablespoons (1 stick) of unsalted butter, melted.
What quantity of raisins is included in the filling?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of raisins.
How much cinnamon is used?
One teaspoon of ground cinnamon is used to flavor the apple and raisin mixture.
What is the total number of ingredients required?
There are 8 main ingredients used in this strudel recipe.
How much sugar is added to the fruit?
Three tablespoons of granulated sugar are mixed with the apples and raisins.
Should the butter be salted or unsalted?
The recipe specifically calls for unsalted butter.
How much salt is added to the filling?
The recipe includes 3/4 teaspoon of kosher salt.
What kind of surface is best for assembling the strudel?
A clean, flat surface is necessary for laying out and rolling the delicate phyllo sheets.
Is this recipe suitable for beginner bakers?
Yes, it is described as an easy and simplified recipe designed to cater to bakers of all skill levels.