Apple strudel is a timeless dessert known for its flaky layers and sweet, spiced apple filling. This one-pot recipe simplifies the process while still delivering that perfect, bakery-style crispness.
Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering, a cozy night in, or a quick weekend treat, this apple strudel is easy to prepare and always impresses.
With minimal ingredients and a streamlined process, you can enjoy a homemade dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
The Secret to a Flaky & Buttery Crust
A great apple strudel starts with perfectly crisp pastry layers. This recipe uses thin, delicate layers of dough to create that classic golden-brown crunch.
The key is brushing each layer with just the right amount of butter to ensure flakiness without weighing it down. The final bake results in a light, crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft, spiced apple filling.
Why This One-Pot Recipe Saves Time
This one-pot recipe is designed for simplicity. Instead of juggling multiple bowls and baking tools, everything comes together quickly and efficiently.
By prepping the filling in one step and using ready-made dough, the process is streamlined while still maintaining incredible flavor.
No need for complicated techniques—just a straightforward approach that works every time.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Apple strudel is a versatile dessert that fits any occasion:
- Holidays & celebrations: A show-stopping dessert for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or family gatherings.
- Brunch & afternoon tea: A light, satisfying treat to serve with coffee or tea.
- Quick weekday indulgence: Preps easily for a no-fuss homemade dessert.
- Meal prep friendly: Make it ahead, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week.
Customization Options for Any Preference
The beauty of this one-pot recipe is how easy it is to customize. A few simple swaps can transform the flavor while keeping the process just as effortless:
- Fruit variations: Mix in pears, berries, or dried fruit for a twist.
- Nutty crunch: Add walnuts, pecans, or almonds for extra texture.
- Spice it up: Try nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom for more warmth.
- Dairy-free version: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative.
Tips for the Best Apple Strudel
To ensure your apple strudel turns out perfectly crisp, golden, and delicious, keep these tips in mind:
- Use the right apples: A good balance of tart and sweet varieties enhances flavor.
- Don’t overfill: Too much filling can make the pastry soggy and hard to roll.
- Seal the edges well: Prevents leaks and keeps the filling intact.
- Let it cool slightly before slicing: This helps it hold its shape and allows flavors to settle.
With its easy, one-pot approach, this apple strudel is a must-try for anyone looking for a no-fuss dessert. Simple ingredients, effortless preparation, and an irresistible crispy crust make this recipe a winner every time!
Best Apple Strudel One-Pot Recipe
Equipment
- 2½ x 10-inch rimmed baking sheet
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1¾ pounds Golden Delicious apples peeled, cored, and cut into ½-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon grated lemon zest plus 1½ teaspoons lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon table salt divided
- 3 tablespoons golden raisins
- 1½ tablespoons panko bread crumbs
For the Pastry:
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar plus extra for serving
- 14 9-inch phyllo sheets, thawed
Instructions
Prepare the Apple Filling:
- In a large bowl, toss apples with granulated sugar, lemon zest and juice, cinnamon, ginger, and ⅛ teaspoon salt.
- Cover and microwave for about 2 minutes, stirring once halfway through. Let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Transfer apples to a colander set over a second large bowl and let drain, reserving liquid.
- Return apples to the original bowl and stir in raisins and panko bread crumbs.
Prepare the Baking Sheet:
- Adjust oven rack to the upper-middle position and preheat to 375°F.
- Spray a rimmed baking sheet with vegetable oil spray and stir the remaining ⅛ teaspoon salt into melted butter.
Layer the Phyllo Dough:
- Place a 16½ x 12-inch parchment sheet on the counter, with the long side parallel to the counter’s edge.
- Lay one phyllo sheet on the parchment, also parallel to the edge.
- Using a fine-mesh strainer, dust with 1½ teaspoons confectioners’ sugar.
- Lightly brush with melted butter.
- Repeat with six more phyllo sheets, confectioners’ sugar, and melted butter, stacking each layer.
Assemble the Strudel
- Arrange half of the apple mixture in a 2½ x 10-inch rectangle, positioned 2 inches from the bottom and 2 inches from the sides of the phyllo.
- Fold the phyllo over the filling from the bottom, then fold the sides over.
- Brush the folded sections with reserved apple liquid.
- Fold the top edge over the filling, ensuring a 1-inch overlap. Press firmly to seal.
- Transfer the strudel to one side of the baking sheet, seam side facing the center.
- Lightly brush the top and sides with half of the remaining apple liquid.
- Repeat the process to make a second strudel, placing it on the other side of the baking sheet.
Bake the Strudel:
- Bake for 27 to 35 minutes, rotating the sheet halfway through baking, until golden brown.
- Immediately transfer to a cutting board and cool for 3 minutes.
- Slice each strudel into thirds and let cool for at least 20 minutes.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, dusting with additional confectioners’ sugar.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.