Easy Apple Strudel with Phyllo

Easy apple strudel with phyllo features crisp, flaky pastry filled with spiced apples, walnuts, and raisins. This baked dessert recipe is perfect for holiday treats, brunch, or a sweet breakfast, combining warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange flavors with a golden, buttery phyllo crust.

Ingredients

• 2 tsp ghee (clarified butter)
• 2 Tbsp Private Reserve Greek extra virgin olive oil, plus more if needed
• 3 apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (1 Granny Smith, 2 Gala recommended)
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground cardamom
• 4 Tbsp orange juice
• ½ cup chopped walnuts
• ⅓ cup raisins
• 10 thawed phyllo dough sheets
• Confectioner’s sugar for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a large sheet pan lined with parchment paper.

2. Make the Filling:
In a large skillet, heat ghee and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and orange juice. Cook for about 2 minutes until apples release some juice but remain slightly firm. Stir in walnuts and raisins, then remove from heat. Set aside.

3. Prepare Phyllo Sheets:
Mix a small amount of the apple juices with olive oil in a bowl. Lay 10 phyllo sheets flat, brushing each sheet with the juice-oil mixture and sprinkling lightly with brown sugar.

4. Assemble the Strudel:
Place apple filling in the center of the phyllo stack, leaving a 2-inch border. Fold short edges over the filling, brush with oil, then roll the long edge over the filling gently toward the other side. Keep the seam on the bottom.

5. Bake:
Brush the top with extra olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes or until phyllo is golden brown.

6. Cool and Garnish:
Allow strudel to cool in the pan. Sprinkle with confectioner’s sugar and remaining walnuts or raisins if desired before serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crisp, flaky phyllo pastry with warm, spiced apple filling.
• Quick and simple dessert that looks impressive for guests.
• Combines natural sweetness of apples with aromatic spices and nuts.
• Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dessert.

Tips

• Keep phyllo covered with a towel to prevent drying out.
• Don’t overcook apples during filling prep; they should remain slightly firm.
• Use a light hand when rolling to prevent phyllo from tearing.
• Brush generously with oil for extra crispness.

Variations and Substitutions

• Fruits: Substitute pears, peaches, or mixed berries for apples.
• Nuts: Use pecans, almonds, or skip nuts for a nut-free option.
• Sweetener: Swap brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup.
• Spices: Add ginger, cloves, or allspice for different flavor profiles.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the strudel and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze the strudel?
Yes, wrap tightly in foil and freeze unbaked for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra 10–15 minutes.

Do I need to thaw phyllo dough?
Yes, thaw according to package instructions and keep sheets covered while working.

Serving

Serve warm as a dessert or sweet breakfast treat. Pair with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Suggestions

• Garnish with extra chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
• Serve alongside coffee or tea for brunch or afternoon snack.
• Slice into individual portions for parties or gatherings.