This recipe is a go-to for busy bakers who want a show-stopping dessert without the fuss. Using puff pastry makes it quick and easy, while the combination of sweet apples, cinnamon, and sugar wrapped in golden pastry delivers unbeatable flavor. It’s crowd-pleasing, comforting, and requires just a few simple ingredients. Plus, it’s just as delicious warm from the oven as it is served at room temperature.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Puff pastry sheets (thawed if frozen)
Apples (firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Lemon juice
Cornstarch or flour (for thickening)
Raisins or chopped nuts (optional)
Egg (for egg wash)
Powdered sugar (for dusting after baking)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Peel, core, and slice the apples thinly. In a bowl, toss them with lemon juice, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch until well coated.
Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth the seams and slightly enlarge it.
Spoon the apple mixture along the center third of the pastry lengthwise, leaving space at the edges.
Optionally sprinkle raisins or chopped nuts over the apple mixture.
Cut slits into the outer thirds of the pastry (on both sides) at a slight diagonal, about 1 inch apart.
Fold the slits over the apple mixture in a crisscross or braided pattern, tucking in the ends.
Brush the pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
Allow to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 6–8 slices. Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 35–40 minutes Cooling time: 10 minutes Total time: About 1 hour
Variations
Berry twist: Add fresh or frozen berries like raspberries or blueberries to the apple filling.
Caramel apple: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple filling before folding the pastry.
Nutty crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture.
Spiced version: Add ground nutmeg, allspice, or cloves for deeper warmth.
Maple glaze: Replace powdered sugar dusting with a simple maple syrup glaze.
Vegan option: Use a plant-based puff pastry and substitute the egg wash with almond milk.
Mini strudels: Cut the pastry into smaller portions and make individual servings.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover apple strudel in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the flaky texture.
FAQs
Can I use canned apple pie filling?
Yes, but fresh apples provide better texture and flavor. If using canned filling, reduce the added sugar.
What’s the best type of apple to use?
Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness and firmness, but Honeycrisp and Fuji also work well.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for a smoother filling, but you can leave the skins on for added texture and color.
Can I freeze the strudel?
Yes, freeze it unbaked or baked. For unbaked, assemble and freeze before egg wash. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to the bake time.
How do I keep the bottom from getting soggy?
Thickening the filling with cornstarch and preheating your baking sheet can help prevent sogginess.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate the unbaked strudel a few hours in advance, then bake when ready.
What if my puff pastry cracks?
Patch it gently with a small piece of extra pastry. Brushing with egg wash helps seal it.
Is egg wash necessary?
Egg wash gives the pastry a golden, shiny finish, but you can skip it or use milk as an alternative.
Can I use phyllo dough instead?
Yes, but layer multiple sheets with butter in between for a similar effect. Baking time may vary.
What toppings go well with apple strudel?
Whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel or maple syrup pair perfectly.
Conclusion
Puff Pastry Apple Strudel is a beautiful blend of simplicity and sophistication. With flaky layers, tender spiced apples, and endless customization options, it’s a dessert that works for any season or celebration. Whether you serve it warm with ice cream or enjoy a slice with coffee, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.
Puff Pastry Apple Strudel is a quick and elegant dessert made with flaky puff pastry and a spiced apple filling. This shortcut version of the classic European treat is perfect for holidays, brunch, or a cozy family dessert.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:40 minutes
Total Time:1 hour
Yield:6–8 slices
Category:Dessert
Method:Baked
Cuisine:European
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch (or flour)
1/4 cup raisins or chopped nuts (optional)
1 egg (for egg wash)
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, toss sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch until well coated. Add raisins or nuts if desired.
Roll puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth seams and slightly enlarge.
Spoon apple mixture along the center third of pastry lengthwise, leaving space at edges.
Cut slits into the outer thirds of pastry (on both sides) at a diagonal, about 1 inch apart.
Fold strips over filling in a braided pattern, tucking in the ends.
Brush pastry with beaten egg.
Bake 35–40 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown and crisp.
Cool for 10 minutes, then dust with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.
Notes
Add berries for a fruity twist.Drizzle caramel over filling for a caramel-apple version.Use chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.For extra spice, add nutmeg, allspice, or cloves.Substitute maple glaze for powdered sugar dusting.Make vegan with plant-based puff pastry and almond milk instead of egg wash.
