Easy Apple Strudel isn’t just a dessert—it’s an experience wrapped in buttery, flaky puff pastry. This Easy Apple Strudel recipe brings all the cozy fall feels right into your kitchen, no matter the season.
With store-bought puff pastry doing most of the heavy lifting, you get all the charm of homemade baking without the stress. Juicy apple slices mingle with cinnamon and sugar, creating a warm, aromatic filling that’ll make your home smell like a bakery on a crisp October morning. Whether you’re whipping it up for Sunday brunch, a dinner party, or just because you deserve something sweet, this Easy Apple Strudel recipe hits that perfect balance of simple and impressive. One bite, and you’ll see why it’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters can’t resist.
Table of Contents
What is Easy Apple Strudel?
Easy Apple Strudel is a simplified twist on the traditional Austrian pastry, but it doesn’t skimp on flavor. Instead of the labor-intensive dough that grandmas used to stretch across their kitchen tables, this version uses puff pastry—light, flaky, and ready to go. Inside, a spiced apple mixture—tart Granny Smiths meet sweet Honeycrisp or Fuji slices—creates the perfect sweet-tart combo. The magic happens as it bakes: the sugar caramelizes, the pastry turns golden, and that buttery scent fills the air. You’ll end up with a dessert that’s elegant enough for company but easy enough for a weeknight treat. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Reasons to Try Easy Apple Strudel
If you’ve ever craved something homemade but didn’t want to spend all day in the kitchen, this Easy Apple Strudel is your answer. First off, it’s ridiculously simple—no fancy equipment or pastry degree required. The store-bought puff pastry makes it foolproof, and the apple filling comes together in minutes. Second, it’s versatile: add raisins, nuts, or even a hint of cheddar for a savory-sweet surprise.
Third, it’s freezer-friendly, meaning you can prep ahead for the holidays (or a future craving emergency). And finally, it’s the kind of dessert that feels comforting—like a warm hug on a chilly day. Want more cozy fall recipes? Check out our Crock Pot Candied Yams or Autumn Harvest Beef Stew for more soul-warming inspiration.
Ingredients Needed to Make Easy Apple Strudel
Filling:
- 2 medium apples (Granny Smith + Honeycrisp or Fuji), peeled, cored, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon (plus a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom, optional)
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Pastry & Finish:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg (for egg wash, beaten with 1 tsp water, or milk/cream for dairy-free option)
Optional Add-ins:
- ¼ cup chopped toasted nuts
- ¼ cup raisins (soaked 10 minutes in warm water or rum)
- Pear + ginger twist: swap one apple for pear, add ½ tsp ground ginger
- Savory-sweet option: 2 tbsp sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions to Make Easy Apple Strudel
Ready to make your kitchen smell like heaven? Let’s walk through this Easy Apple Strudel step by step—from thawing your puff pastry to that golden, flaky finish that’ll have everyone hovering near the oven. This isn’t a fussy recipe; it’s straightforward, forgiving, and deliciously rewarding.
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Let’s start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). That high heat is what gives your Easy Apple Strudel its irresistibly crispy exterior. While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper—trust me, this simple move saves you from sticky clean-up later.
If you’re new to baking, this is the perfect time to check out our Crock Pot Candied Yams — another warm and cozy recipe that pairs beautifully with fall flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
Here’s where the magic begins. Peel, core, and slice two medium apples (a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp or Fuji gives the best flavor balance). In a medium bowl, toss the apple slices with brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, flour, and lemon juice.
The flour acts as your secret weapon—it thickens the filling so it doesn’t spill out during baking. If you like to customize your desserts, try adding toasted nuts or plump raisins. They add texture and richness that makes every bite extra satisfying. You can even find more fruit-based inspiration in our Butternut Squash Chili with Turkey for a sweet-meets-savory twist.
As you stir, you’ll notice the apples starting to glisten—that’s your cue that the sugars are doing their job. Set the filling aside for a few minutes while you prep the pastry.
Step 3: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
This step is where your Easy Apple Strudel starts to take shape. On a lightly floured surface, unfold your puff pastry and roll it into a 10×12-inch rectangle. You don’t need to press hard—just enough to smooth it out and make it slightly larger.
Leave a 2-inch border on the top and bottom, and about 3 inches on each side. These edges will help seal in the filling later.
If you’re curious about pastry handling, our Creamy Mushroom Wild Rice Soup post offers great tips on balancing rich textures—because cooking (and baking) is all about layering flavor and feel.
Pro tip: If the dough feels too soft, pop it in the fridge for 5 minutes. Keeping it cold ensures that signature flaky texture once baked.
Step 4: Add the Apple Filling
Now it’s time to assemble! Spoon the apple mixture evenly down the center of your rolled-out pastry, keeping the borders clean. You want a neat, central line of apples—it’ll make the folding and braiding easier later.
This is the step where your kitchen begins to smell like spiced fall goodness. The blend of cinnamon and sugar mingling with the buttery pastry is the kind of aroma that feels like a hug.
If you’re craving extra depth, drizzle a tiny bit of honey over the apples. Or, for a twist, try swapping one apple for a ripe pear and add ½ teaspoon of ground ginger. The result? A pear-ginger variation that’s subtly exotic but still homey.
Step 5: Braid and Seal (The Fun Part)
Here’s the part that looks fancy but is actually foolproof. Using a sharp knife, cut 1-inch diagonal strips along both sides of the pastry. Think of it like creating little pastry arms ready to fold over the filling.
Fold the top and bottom flaps over the apples first, then alternate folding the side strips across each other, creating that beautiful braided pattern. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect—imperfection is charm in this recipe. The goal is to seal in the filling while giving your Easy Apple Strudel that bakery-worthy look.
This step by step folding process helps keep the apples snug inside while baking, preventing leaks and keeping your strudel picture-perfect.
Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash & Bake
Transfer your braided strudel to the prepared baking sheet. Using a pastry brush, coat the top with an egg wash (one beaten egg mixed with 1 teaspoon of water). This helps your pastry bake into a deep golden color that’s both crisp and glossy.
Bake in your preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden, and the apple filling starts to bubble gently at the seams. You’ll know it’s done when it looks like something out of a cozy bakery window.
For a complete fall-inspired meal, pair your freshly baked strudel with our Creamy Vegan Potato Soup—the comforting combination of sweet and savory will make any chilly day feel special.
Step 7: Cool, Slice & Serve
Patience time! Let your Easy Apple Strudel cool for 15–20 minutes before slicing. This resting time lets the filling thicken slightly, so each slice holds together beautifully.
Use a serrated knife for clean cuts, and serve warm. If you want to turn this into a full dessert moment, top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a lighter option, a dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a refreshing touch.
There you have it—an Easy Apple Strudel step by step that transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping dessert. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like fall but works any time of year.
If you loved this recipe, you’ll also enjoy our comforting Autumn Harvest Beef Stew—perfect for cozy nights when you want a sweet finish after something hearty.
What to Serve with Easy Apple Strudel
This strudel loves good company. Try it with a dollop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a true dessert moment. If you’re feeling fancy, pair it with a strong espresso or a mug of Creamy Mushroom Wild Rice Soup to balance sweet and savory flavors. For brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a yogurt parfait for contrast. And if you’re really in the mood for indulgence, add a side of warm vanilla custard—just like the Austrians do.
Key Tips for Making Easy Apple Strudel
- Keep it cold: Puff pastry likes the chill. The colder it is before baking, the flakier your crust will be.
- Use the right apples: A mix of tart (Granny Smith) and sweet (Honeycrisp or Fuji) creates depth of flavor.
- Don’t overfill: Too much filling can make your pastry soggy or cause leaks.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble it up to 4 hours in advance and chill it until ready to bake.
- Serve it warm: That’s when the flavors—and your kitchen—shine brightest.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Easy Apple Strudel
Leftover Easy Apple Strudel? Lucky you. Store cooled slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop slices in the oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes to crisp up that pastry again. Avoid the microwave—it’ll make your strudel sad and soggy. You can also freeze unbaked strudel (tightly wrapped) for up to a month. Just bake from frozen, adding 5–10 minutes to the total time.
FAQs
Can I make Easy Apple Strudel ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking or freeze unbaked for later.
Can I use pie crust instead of puff pastry?
You can, but you’ll lose that light, flaky texture that makes this recipe so irresistible.
What apples work best?
A mix of tart and sweet apples—like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp—gives the best flavor balance.
Is it okay to skip the egg wash?
Yes, but you’ll miss out on that gorgeous golden sheen.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Apple Strudel is the perfect mix of cozy and classy. It’s simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for guests. Whether you’re baking it for family brunch, a Thanksgiving spread, or a sweet Sunday indulgence, this dessert never disappoints. The best part? You don’t need fancy tools or endless prep time—just a love for good food and maybe a scoop of ice cream on top.
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Easy Apple Strudel Recipe: A Simple Yet Stunning Fall Dessert
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Apple Strudel delivers flaky puff pastry filled with spiced apple slices for a simple yet stunning dessert. With store-bought puff pastry and a handful of pantry staples, it’s quick to make and perfect for any cozy occasion.
Ingredients
Filling:
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp/Fuji recommended)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Pastry & Finish:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten with 1 tsp water (or use milk/cream for dairy-free)
Optional Add-ins/Variations:
- ¼ cup chopped toasted nuts
- ¼ cup raisins (soaked in warm water or rum)
- Pear + ginger twist: swap one apple for pear, add ½ tsp ground ginger
- Savory-sweet: 2 tbsp sharp cheddar cheese in filling
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss apple slices with brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, flour, and lemon juice until well coated.
3. On a lightly floured surface, unfold the puff pastry and gently roll into a 10×12-inch rectangle, leaving about 2-inch borders on top and bottom and 3-inch on the sides.
4. Spoon the apple mixture down the center of the pastry.
5. Cut 1-inch diagonal strips along each side of the pastry. Fold the top and bottom flaps over the filling.
6. Alternately fold strips over the filling, overlapping slightly to create a braid or lattice effect.
7. Transfer strudel to the prepared baking sheet and brush with egg wash.
8. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until pastry is deep golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
9. Let cool for 15–20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Keep puff pastry cold while handling to maintain flakiness.
Flour helps absorb moisture from the apples—don’t skip it.
You can assemble the strudel ahead and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking.
Freeze unbaked strudel and bake from frozen, adding 5–10 minutes to baking time.
Strudel doesn’t need to look perfect—its rustic appearance adds charm.
