Go Back

Grandma's Apple Strudel

A cozy, flaky apple strudel filled with cinnamon-spiced apples, brown sugar, vanilla, and buttery crumbs. This classic dessert has a golden pastry crust and a tender, fragrant filling that feels homemade and comforting.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Baked Goods, Dessert, Family Favorites, Holiday Treats, Pastry
Cuisine: European
Calories: 310
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 sheet puff pastry thawed, or 8–10 sheets phyllo dough
  • 3 medium apples peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar packed
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs or crushed graham crackers
  • 2 tbsp butter melted
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 egg beaten, for brushing
  • powdered sugar for serving

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Place them in a large bowl and toss with lemon juice.
  3. Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and melted butter to the apples. Stir until evenly coated.
  4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed graham crackers over the apple mixture and stir gently to help absorb excess juices.
  5. If using puff pastry, unfold it on a lightly floured surface and roll slightly to smooth the seams. If using phyllo, layer sheets one at a time, brushing lightly with melted butter between layers.
  6. Spoon the apple filling down the center of the pastry, leaving space around the edges and avoiding excess liquid from the bowl.
  7. Fold one side of the pastry over the filling, then fold the other side over the top. Pinch the ends to seal and place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
  8. Brush the top with beaten egg and cut a few small slits in the pastry to allow steam to escape.
  9. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
  10. Cool for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.

Notes

For a tarter filling, use Granny Smith apples; for a sweeter strudel, try Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji. Add raisins, walnuts, pecans, or a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.