Apple Cinnamon Vanilla Strudel

Name: Apple Cinnamon Vanilla Strudel
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium apples, peeled and sliced; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 1 package phyllo dough (16 oz), thawed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; Powdered sugar for dusting

Highlighted under: Dessert Recipe Collection

I can’t express how much I love making this Apple Cinnamon Vanilla Strudel. The combination of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and a hint of vibrant vanilla is nothing short of magical. Whenever I prepare this dessert, my kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma that tempts everyone around. It’s a delightful treat that brings warmth to any gathering, and it’s surprisingly easy to assemble. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it on repeat!

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:46:28.448Z

Every time I make my Apple Cinnamon Vanilla Strudel, I remember the first time I watched my grandmother bake one. The way she layered the dough with apples, a dash of cinnamon, and her secret touch of vanilla inspired me to learn. I discovered that using a mix of sweet and tart apples gives a lovely balance to the filling. One small tip is to sprinkle a little lemon juice over the apples to enhance their flavor and prevent browning.

While assembling the strudel, I always take care to roll the dough as thinly as possible. This not only creates a flaky texture but also allows the filling to shine through. The golden-brown crust and the enticing aroma that wafts through my house are always a huge hit during family gatherings. I hope you enjoy making this strudel as much as I do!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The sweet and spicy aroma fills your kitchen, making it a warm, inviting space.
Each bite offers a delightful crunch followed by a soft, flavorful filling.
Easy to prepare, yet looks impressive enough to serve at any occasion.

Understanding Phyllo Dough

Phyllo dough is the star of this strudel, known for its delicate, flaky texture. When using phyllo, it’s essential to keep the sheets covered with a damp cloth while you work to prevent them from drying out. A dry sheet of phyllo can easily crack and ruin your strudel's beautiful presentation. If you find the dough too delicate to handle, pat yourself on the back! That’s a sign you’re working with authentic phyllo.

Layer the phyllo sheets generously with melted butter for optimal crispiness. This step not only enhances flavor but also helps to provide the strudel with a desirable crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender apple filling. Aim for at least five layers for excellent structural integrity; this is crucial for preventing the filling from leaking during baking.

Perfecting the Filling

Selecting the right apples is vital for a delicious filling in this strudel. A mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp delivers a well-rounded flavor. Ensure that the apples are sliced evenly for consistent cooking; thicker slices may remain crunchy whereas thinner pieces can turn mushy if overcooked. Tossing the apple mixture with cornstarch is key, as it helps absorb excess moisture, preventing a soggy strudel.

Incorporating lemon juice not only adds a bright note to the apple filling but also prevents the apples from browning prematurely. Allowing the filling to rest for a few minutes enables the sugar and spices to draw out the apples’ natural juices. This results in a more flavorful filling that melds perfectly with all the spices and enhances overall taste.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your Apple Cinnamon Vanilla Strudel:

Filling Ingredients

4 medium apples, peeled and sliced
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp cornstarch

Dough Ingredients

1 package phyllo dough (16 oz), thawed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Powdered sugar for dusting

Once your ingredients are ready, you're all set to start making this delicious strudel!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a stunning Apple Cinnamon Vanilla Strudel:

Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Mix well and set aside to let the flavors meld.

Prepare the Dough

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay out a sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface and brush it with melted butter. Repeat this with about 5 sheets, stacking them on top of each other.

Add the Filling

Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the dough. Pile the apple filling on one end of the dough, leaving space at the edges for rolling.

Roll the Strudel

Gently roll the dough away from you, enclosing the filling while tucking in the sides to seal. Use melted butter to brush the top and ends of the rolled strudel.

Bake

Place the strudel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Your strudel is ready to be enjoyed warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

Make sure to keep your phyllo dough covered with a damp cloth while you work to prevent it from drying out. Experiment with different apples for unique flavors!

Serving Suggestions

This Apple Cinnamon Vanilla Strudel pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy elements complement the warm spices in the strudel, creating a delightful balance of textures. For added richness, consider drizzling caramel sauce over the top just before serving for a luxurious touch.

Presentation can take this dish to a new level; slice the strudel into generous pieces and sprinkle with additional powdered sugar for a beautiful finish. A garnish of fresh mint or a few slices of apple surrounding the strudel on the serving platter can elevate its visual appeal, making it perfect for gatherings or special occasions.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're short on time, you can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to assemble your strudel, ensure the filling reaches room temperature to prevent the phyllo dough from becoming soggy when baked. Alternatively, you can assemble the entire strudel, then wrap it in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to a month before baking.

When you're ready to bake a frozen strudel, do not thaw it out completely. Instead, preheat your oven and place the strudel directly from the freezer into the hot oven. You may need to increase the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on it until the top is golden brown. This method ensures you maintain the crispiness of the phyllo.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! A mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works wonderfully for a balance of tart and sweet flavors.

→ Can I make this strudel in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the strudel a day ahead and store it in the fridge, then bake it just before serving.

→ What can I serve with the strudel?

It pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

→ How do I store leftover strudel?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for longer freshness.