If you’ve ever craved a homemade dessert that takes you back to your childhood, strudel with jam is the perfect choice. This recipe combines simple ingredients and a love for traditional pastries, creating a delightful treat for any occasion.
To make this classic strudel, you’ll need 700 grams of flour, 5 tablespoons of sugar, a pinch of salt, 125 grams of margarine, 125 milliliters of milk, 125 milliliters of water, 30 grams of fresh yeast, 2 eggs, and a little grated lemon zest to add that extra zing. The process starts by making the dough. Begin by dissolving the yeast in warm milk and letting it activate for a few minutes. Once it’s ready, mix it with the flour, sugar, salt, margarine, water, eggs, and lemon zest. Knead everything together until you have a smooth and elastic dough.
The secret to a perfect strudel lies in letting the dough rest and rise. Cover it with a clean cloth and leave it in a warm spot until it doubles in size. This can take about an hour, depending on the temperature of your kitchen. Once the dough has risen, it’s time to roll it out. Use a rolling pin to create a thin, even sheet of dough. The thinner, the better, as this will give your strudel its delicate, layered texture.
For the filling, choose your favorite jam—apricot, plum, or any homemade variety works wonderfully. Spread the jam generously over the dough, ensuring an even layer. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the jam to leak while baking. Roll the dough gently, starting from one edge and working your way to the other, creating a tight log shape.
Place the rolled strudel into a greased baking tray or one lined with parchment paper. Let it rest again for about 20 minutes to allow it to rise slightly. This step ensures the strudel remains fluffy and light after baking. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the strudel for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as baking time can vary depending on your oven. The strudel is ready when it’s golden brown and fills your kitchen with its irresistible aroma.
Once baked, let the strudel cool slightly before slicing it. It’s perfect as is, but you can dust it with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish. Serve it warm with a cup of tea or coffee, or enjoy it as a dessert after a hearty meal.
This recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings a sense of nostalgia with every bite. Strudel with jam is more than just a dessert; it’s a connection to simpler times, where the joy of baking filled homes with warmth and togetherness. Whether you’re making it for family, friends, or just yourself, this strudel is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Take your time, enjoy the process, and let the magic of homemade baking fill your home. Happy baking!
