Dive into the cozy flavors of fall with this Apple Maple Strudel with Glaze Recipe, a delightful treat that perfectly balances tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and flaky puff pastry topped with a luscious maple glaze. This strudel offers a wonderful harmony of sweet and tart, all wrapped up in buttery, golden layers that are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it as a comforting dessert or an impressive brunch centerpiece, this recipe is straightforward to make yet feels like a special occasion every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential, each playing a key role in bringing the textures and flavors of this Apple Maple Strudel to life. From the tartness of Granny Smith apples to the warm spice of cinnamon and the rich sweetness of maple syrup, every element is crucial for that perfect balance.
- Granny Smith apples (4 cups, peeled, cored, and chopped): Their tartness cuts through the sweetness for a balanced filling.
- Lemon juice (2 Tablespoons): Prevents the apples from browning and adds a fresh zing.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Adds deep caramel notes that simmer beautifully with the apples.
- Ground cinnamon (1 1/2 teaspoons): The warm spice that gives the filling its classic strudel flavor.
- Cornstarch (2 Tablespoons): Thickens the apple mixture for a perfect filling consistency.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without being noticeable.
- Butter (2 Tablespoons): Adds richness and helps the apples cook to tender perfection.
- Maple syrup (2 Tablespoons): Provides a natural sweetness that complements the apples wonderfully.
- Frozen puff pastry (1 package, 17.3 ounces, thawed): The flaky, buttery base that makes assembly a breeze.
- Egg (1) plus water (1 Tablespoon): Combined for an egg wash that gives the strudel a gorgeous golden crust.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): The foundation of the smooth, glossy glaze.
- Heavy cream (2 Tablespoons): Adds richness to the glaze’s texture.
- Maple syrup (2 teaspoons for glaze): Infuses the glaze with that signature sweet maple flavor.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Rounds out the glaze with a touch of warm aroma.
How to Make Apple Maple Strudel with Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures a clean, non-stick surface for your strudel to bake on, helping it crisp perfectly without any sticking or burning.
Step 2: Toss the Apples with the Flavorful Mix
In a large bowl, combine the peeled, chopped apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, and salt. Toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated. This step layers the flavors right into the fruit, setting the stage for a mouthwatering filling that’s bursting with warmth and sweetness.
Step 3: Cook the Apple Filling to Perfection
Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add your apple mixture and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the apples to soften just slightly and for the mixture to thicken up. Stir in the maple syrup right at the end, and then remove from heat. Let the filling cool before moving on; this prevents soggy pastry later.
Step 4: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, roll each sheet of puff pastry into a rectangle approximately 12 by 10 inches. This size is just right for holding the filling while allowing enough pastry for that beautiful braid effect.
Step 5: Fill and Braid the Strudel
Divide your cooled apple filling evenly between the two pastry sheets, placing it down the center and leaving about 1.5 inches on each side free. Next, cut diagonal slits about an inch apart along both sides of the pastry. Fold those strips over the filling in an alternating pattern to create a lovely braided look, then tuck the ends underneath to seal everything in.
Step 6: Apply Egg Wash for a Golden Finish
Whisk together the egg and water, then brush this mixture generously over the surface of each strudel. This step might be small, but it’s what gives you that spectacular golden-brown sheen that makes the strudel look as amazing as it tastes.
Step 7: Bake Until Puff and Golden
Transfer the strudels to your prepared baking sheets and pop them into the oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until each is puffed and golden brown. Once done, let the strudels cool slightly to set before moving on to the final step.
Step 8: Make and Drizzle the Sweet Maple Glaze
While your strudels cool, whisk together powdered sugar, heavy cream, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Drizzle this glaze generously over the warm strudels, adding just the right touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish that is simply irresistible.
How to Serve Apple Maple Strudel with Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts not only adds a lovely crunch but also complements the warm spices in the strudel beautifully. A dusting of extra powdered sugar can add a delicate snow-dusted effect that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert presentation. Fresh mint leaves are a gorgeous touch of green color and a light herbal aroma that balances the rich sweetness.
Side Dishes
Serving your Apple Maple Strudel alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates an irresistible contrast between warm pastry and cold cream. For a brunch spread, pair it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or hot apple cider to echo those wonderful autumn flavors. A simple dollop of whipped cream or crème fraîche can also enhance the indulgent experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the strudel into thick slices and stacking them on a dessert plate for a rustic look. Drizzle extra maple glaze in a delicate pattern on the plate for an elegant touch. Or place individual strudel slices in small ramekins with a spoonful of extra apple compote on the side for a charming, individual serving that impresses guests every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Apple Maple Strudel tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Kept at room temperature, it stays tasty for about 1 to 2 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate it but allow it to come to room temperature before serving to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well! Wrap your baked and cooled strudel tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to maintain that perfectly flaky crust and tender filling.
Reheating
To bring your Apple Maple Strudel back to life, reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 12 minutes. This method helps restore the crispiness of the puff pastry without drying out the filling. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust flaky and delicate.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! Granny Smith apples are ideal because of their tartness and firm texture, but you can experiment with varieties like Honeycrisp or Braeburn for a slightly sweeter or different flavor profile. Just be sure to use apples that hold up well to cooking to avoid a mushy filling.
Is it possible to make this strudel vegan?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of a regular egg for the wash. For the glaze, swap heavy cream with coconut cream and use a vegan powdered sugar if you prefer.
Can I prepare the apple filling in advance?
You sure can! Make the apple filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When ready, warm it slightly in a skillet before assembling the strudel so it’s pliable and moist, ensuring your final pastry is perfect.
What can I substitute for puff pastry if I don’t have any?
If puff pastry isn’t on hand, phyllo dough could work as an alternative, though the texture will be crispier and less buttery. Alternatively, a homemade or store-bought pie crust could be used, but expect a denser texture. Puff pastry really is best for that classic, flaky strudel feel.
How do I store leftover glaze?
Store leftover glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before using again, give it a good stir and if it’s too thick, thin it out with a splash of milk or cream to reach the desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that combines classic comfort with a special touch, this Apple Maple Strudel with Glaze Recipe is a winner. It’s not just a treat; it’s an experience that warms the heart and delights every bite. Grab those apples and puff pastry and give this recipe a try—your friends and family will be asking for seconds in no time!
Print
Apple Maple Strudel with Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Austrian
Description
This classic Apple Strudel recipe features tender Granny Smith apples coated in cinnamon and brown sugar, encased in flaky golden puff pastry, and finished with a sweet maple glaze. Perfect for a cozy dessert or special occasion treat, the strudel combines a buttery, crisp exterior with a warm, spiced apple filling.
Ingredients
Filling
- 4 cups Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored, and chopped – about 4 medium apples)
- 2 Tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 2 Tablespoons maple syrup
Dough
- 1 17.3 ounce package frozen puff pastry (thawed)
Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- 1 Tablespoon water
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 Tablespoons heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, toss the chopped Granny Smith apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, cornstarch, and salt until they are evenly coated. This mixture will create a sweet, spiced filling that thickens during cooking.
- Cook Apples: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the apple mixture and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften slightly and the filling thickens. Stir in the maple syrup for added sweetness, then remove from heat and allow the filling to cool for a few minutes.
- Prepare Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out each thawed puff pastry sheet into a rectangle approximately 12 by 10 inches. This will help create an even, thin layer of dough for wrapping the filling.
- Assemble Strudel: Divide the cooled apple filling evenly between the two pastry rectangles, placing the filling in the center and leaving about 1.5 inches of space on each side. Cut diagonal slits about 1 inch apart along both sides of the pastry. Fold the strips over the filling in an alternating, braided pattern, then tuck in the ends to seal the strudel securely.
- Apply Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture generously over the surface of both assembled strudels to promote a golden, shiny crust during baking.
- Bake: Transfer the strudels to the prepared baking sheets and bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before glazing.
- Prepare Glaze and Serve: While the strudels cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, heavy cream, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle this over the warm strudels before serving to add a creamy sweetness and beautiful finish. Enjoy your delicious homemade apple strudel!
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples for their tartness and firm texture, which hold up well during cooking.
- Make sure the puff pastry is fully thawed before rolling for best results.
- The cornstarch helps to thicken the apple filling so it doesn’t become too runny.
- Adjust the sugar to taste based on the sweetness of your apples.
- The diagonal slits and braided folding create the classic strudel look and help the filling stay enclosed during baking.
- You can substitute maple syrup in the glaze with honey or leave it out for a simpler icing.
- Serve the strudel warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
