Easy Homemade Apple Strudel Recipe with Cinnamon Sugar Glaze: Your Family’s New Favorite Dessert!

I absolutely adore those moments when a simple recipe transports you to a cozy, comforting place.

This easy apple strudel recipe with Cinnamon Sugar Glaze delivers exactly that – a perfect blend of flaky pastry, tender fruit, and irresistible sweetness, with that warm cinnamon aroma filling your kitchen. It’s the ideal treat for busy home cooks who crave comforting, family-friendly desserts without spending all day. Rooted in timeless baking traditions and updated for today’s convenience, this is my go-to apple strudel recipe with Cinnamon Sugar Glaze. Get ready for a warm, sweet, and satisfying dish that’s a joy to prepare and even better to eat.

Ingredient Guide with Flavor & Function

Gathering quality ingredients is the first step to a delightful dessert. When preparing your family-friendly apple strudel recipe with Cinnamon Sugar Glaze, these components are key.

For those seeking dietary adaptations, note that a gluten-free puff pastry can create a delicious gluten-free apple strudel recipe without compromising on flavor.

• Puff Pastry or Phyllo Dough: 1 sheet (approx. 10 oz/280g) – for that classic crisp, golden texture. Opt for unbleached flour pastry if preferred.
• Apples: 3-4 medium (about 1.5 lbs/680g) – crisp, tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp offer the perfect sweet-sour balance in your apple strudel. (I always go for Honeycrisp myself; they hold their shape beautifully.) Choose firm, unblemished apples for best results.
• Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup (100g) – for classic warm sweetness in the apple filling. (Or use a sugar substitute like erythritol for a lower-sugar option, fitting a lower-carb approach).
• Ground Cinnamon: 1 tsp – essential for that cozy, spiced flavor.
• Melted Butter: 1/4 cup (60g) – to brush the pastry and create richness. (Use dairy-free butter alternative for a dairy-free version).
• Plain Breadcrumbs: 2 Tbsp – crucial for absorbing excess moisture, preventing a soggy bottom.
• Powdered Sugar: 1 cup (120g) – for the smooth, sweet base of the Cinnamon Sugar Glaze.
• Milk or Cream: 2-3 Tbsp – to achieve the perfect glaze consistency.
• Extra Cinnamon: 1/4 tsp – for that signature spiced finish in the glaze.

Cooking Instructions Made Simple

1. Prepare the Filling: Peel, core, and thinly slice 3-4 apples. Toss with 1/2 cup brown sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon in a large bowl. They’ll become fragrant and slightly juicy in about 2 minutes.
2. Prep the Pastry: Lay one sheet of puff pastry on a large parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with 1/4 cup melted butter. Sprinkle 2 Tbsp plain breadcrumbs evenly. If the pastry looks dry, gently mist it with water.
3. Assemble the Strudel: Spoon apple filling down the center third, leaving a 1-inch border. Fold one long side over, then the other, pressing to seal firmly. Don’t overfill! For a kid-friendly touch, ensure apples are thinly sliced.
4. Bake to Golden Perfection: Transfer the apple strudel to the baking sheet, seam-side down. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
5. Make the Glaze: As the strudel cools, whisk 1 cup powdered sugar, 2-3 Tbsp milk, and 1/4 tsp cinnamon until smooth. Drizzle over the warm apple strudel recipe with Cinnamon Sugar Glaze. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of nutmeg to the apple filling earlier.

Perfect Moments to Serve Apple Strudel with Cinnamon Sugar Glaze

This delightful apple strudel recipe with Cinnamon Sugar Glaze is wonderfully versatile, perfect for comforting family dinners, impressive holiday gatherings, or simply a cozy evening indulgence. It pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a warm mug of coffee.

This apple strudel recipe with Cinnamon Sugar Glaze is also perfect for making ahead:

• Prep ahead: Assemble the strudel and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
• Freeze: Unbaked strudel can be frozen for up to 1 month.
• Reheat: Warm leftovers in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes for crispness.

Nutrition & Wellness Spotlight

Our goal is to make healthy eating simple and enjoyable. This apple strudel recipe with Cinnamon Sugar Glaze can easily fit into a balanced lifestyle.

• Enjoy real fruit goodness with a generous apple filling.
• Customize for lighter choices by reducing added sugar or using natural substitutes.
• Adapt for best gluten-free recipes using alternative pastry doughs.
• Mindful portioning helps integrate this sweet treat for balanced enjoyment.

Everyday Benefits Beyond the Plate

Beyond its delicious taste, this family-friendly apple strudel recipe with Cinnamon Sugar Glaze offers practical advantages for busy households:

• Time-saving: Quick assembly means more time with family.
• Affordable: Uses common pantry staples for a budget-friendly dessert.
• Nourishing: Offers a satisfying, wholesome fruit-filled treat.

Expert Tips & Adaptations for Apple Strudel with Cinnamon Sugar Glaze

Elevate your homemade apple strudel recipe with Cinnamon Sugar Glaze with these simple expert tips and adaptations:

• Techniques: Toast walnuts or pecans for extra texture. I sometimes brown butter before brushing; it adds a wonderfully complex, nutty note.
• Flavor adjustments: Experiment with spices like allspice or ginger. For a simpler finish, top with powdered sugar instead of glaze.
• Dietary adaptations: For vegan, ensure plant-based pastry/butter. For diabetic-friendly, use sugar substitutes and whole wheat phyllo. Avoid nuts or dairy for allergy-conscious guests.

Questions Readers Often Ask

Can this apple strudel recipe be prepped ahead for busy weeks?

Absolutely! You can assemble the strudel and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze it unbaked for longer-term easy meal prep. This convenience makes the apple strudel recipe with Cinnamon Sugar Glaze a great family-friendly option.

What are the healthiest substitutes for the apple strudel ingredients?

For a healthier twist, use whole wheat phyllo dough, reduce the amount of brown sugar, or swap some butter for unsweetened applesauce in the filling. These small changes help make a more wholesome apple strudel recipe with Cinnamon Sugar Glaze.

How do I prevent a soggy bottom on my apple strudel?

Sprinkling plain breadcrumbs on the pastry before adding the apple filling is my secret weapon against sogginess. They effectively absorb excess moisture from the apples, ensuring a beautifully crisp bottom crust.

Can I use different fruits in this strudel recipe?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other fruits! Pears, cherries, or mixed berries can be delicious alternatives, though cooking times might vary depending on their water content. Adjust spices to complement your chosen fruit.

How long does homemade apple strudel with Cinnamon Sugar Glaze last?

Stored at room temperature, your fresh apple strudel is best enjoyed within 2-3 days. If refrigerated, it can maintain its quality for up to 5 days. Always ensure it’s covered tightly.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover apple strudel?

To restore its delightful crispness, reheat leftover apple strudel in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes. Microwaving is quicker but won’t give you that flaky crust.

Conclusion

This easy apple strudel recipe with Cinnamon Sugar Glaze delivers comforting flavors and homemade magic without the fuss.

Pin this family-friendly apple strudel recipe for later to enjoy quick meals and easy family dinners!

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