Peach strudel is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of ripe, juicy peaches and flaky pastry in every bite!
What country is strudel from?
Strudel is a traditional pastry that originated in the Austro-Hungarian Empire, which included parts of present-day Austria, Hungary, and surrounding regions. The most famous type of strudel is the “Apfelstrudel,” which is an apple strudel. It is closely associated with Austrian cuisine and has become a well-known and beloved dessert in many parts of the world. Strudel dough is typically stretched and rolled thin to encase various sweet or savory fillings, and it has variations in different cultures across Central Europe.
What is peach strudel made of?
Peach strudel is a delightful dessert made with layers of puff pastry dough filled with a sweet and juicy peach filling. Here’s a description of each component:
- Pastry Dough: Peach strudel typically uses thin and flaky pastry dough, such as phyllo dough or puff pastry. These doughs create layers that become crisp and golden when baked, providing a delicate and satisfying texture to the dessert.
- Peaches: Ripe peaches are the main ingredient, providing natural sweetness, juiciness, and a delightful peach flavor.
- Honey: Sweetener is added to enhance the natural sweetness of the peaches. Granulated sugar or honey can be used, depending on your preference.
- Ground Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth and a hint of spice that complements the sweetness of the peaches. By the way, cinnamon is rich in antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. Some research suggests that it may help support blood sugar control, protect against heart disease, and reduce inflammation.
- Lemon Juice: Lemon juice adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness and enhance the fruity flavors. It also helps prevent the peaches from browning.
- Optional Additions: Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, can be added to the filling for a nutty crunch. Raisins or dried cranberries can also be included for extra texture and flavor.
Peach strudel combines the natural sweetness of peaches with flaky pastry, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and full of vibrant fruit flavors.
How to make peach strudel?
In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced peaches, honey, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice. Gently toss the mixture to ensure that the peaches are coated with the honey and aromatic spices. Allow the filling to rest for approximately 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
Spread the peach filling evenly onto the puff pastry, making sure to leave about a 2-inch border along the edges. Carefully cut the pastry edges into thin strips. Commencing from one end, fold the pastry strips over the peach mixture, alternating sides until the entire peach filling is securely covered by the woven pastry strips.
Transfer the beautifully rolled strudel onto the prepared baking sheet. Give the top of the strudel a light brush of beaten egg yolk, and for an appealing golden touch, sprinkle a bit of sugar over the top.
Bake the peach strudel in the preheated oven for around 20 minutes, or until the pastry takes on a luscious golden hue and the filling bubbles enticingly. Once done, take the strudel out of the oven and allow it to cool slightly on the baking sheet.
Cut the warm peach strudel into individual portions and serve. It’s a delightful treat on its own, or you can elevate the experience by pairing it with a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of rich caramel sauce, or a dollop of airy whipped cream.
If you like puff pastry recipes, check out these:
Simple Peach Strudel
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry dough (thawed if frozen)
- 1-2 ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced
- 2 tbsp honey (adjust based on the sweetness of the peaches and your preference)
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 yolk (for brushing)
- some sugar (to sprinkle)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix the sliced peaches, honey, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice. Toss the mixture gently to coat the peaches in the honey and spices. Let the filling sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Spread the peach filling evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a border of about 2 inches along the edges. Cut the edges into strips.
- Starting at one end, fold the pastry strips over the peach mixture, alternating sides until you completely cover the peach mixture.
- Transfer the rolled strudel onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush the top of the strudel with the yolk and sprinkle with sugar for a golden finish.
- Bake the peach strudel in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Once baked, remove the strudel from the oven and let it cool slightly on the baking sheet.
- Slice the peach strudel into portions and serve warm. You can enjoy it on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Simple Peach Strudel