Introduction
Grandma’s Apple Strudel is a cozy, old-fashioned dessert that brings the warmth of a country kitchen straight to your table. Made in a generous slab instead of delicate rolled layers, this version features a tender, flaky crust wrapped around a sweet cinnamon apple filling. The finishing touch is a light vanilla glaze poured over the strudel while it’s still hot, soaking into the crust and keeping every bite moist, rich, and full of nostalgic flavor.
Ingredients
Apple Filling
6 cups apples, peeled and thinly sliced
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Flaky Crust
3¾ cups all-purpose flour
1½ cups shortening
2 egg yolks + enough water to equal 1 cup
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
½ teaspoon salt
1 egg white (reserved, for brushing)
Thin Glaze
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk or light cream
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Prepare the Apple Filling
In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Toss well and set aside while you make the dough. The mixture will become slightly syrupy.
Make the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
In a measuring cup, mix the egg yolks with enough water to equal 1 cup. Stir into the flour mixture until a soft dough forms. Divide the dough into two equal portions.
Form the Bottom Crust
Roll out one portion of dough into a large rectangle. Place it into a greased 10×15-inch jelly roll pan, pressing gently into the corners and slightly up the sides.
Add Filling and Top Crust
Spread the apple filling evenly over the bottom crust. Roll out the second portion of dough and lay it over the apples. Pinch the edges to seal. Brush the top with the reserved egg white and cut several slits for steam.
Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45–60 minutes, until the crust is deep golden and juices bubble through the vents.
Glaze While Hot
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Pour the glaze over the hot strudel as soon as it comes out of the oven. Let the strudel cool completely before slicing into squares.
Conclusion
This Grandma’s Apple Strudel is the kind of dessert that fills your home with comforting aromas and your heart with happy memories. With its flaky crust, tender cinnamon apples, and sweet vanilla glaze, it’s perfect for holidays, family dinners, or anytime you want a true taste of homemade tradition. Serve it with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and enjoy every warm, nostalgic bite.
