European-Style Apple Strudel with Puff Pastry 

Step 1

1. Preheat the oven

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.  

Step 2

1. Prepare the filling

   In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, raisins, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Toss everything together until the apples are well coated.  

Step 3

1. Prepare the pastry

   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet slightly to make it more even. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs down the center of the pastry (this will help absorb excess moisture from the apples).  

Step 4

1. Add filings

   Arrange the apple mixture in the center of the pastry, leaving about 1 inch of space around the edges. 

Step 5

1. Fold and seal

   Fold the sides of the pastry over the filling, then fold the top and bottom edges over to seal. Pinch the edges to secure the filling inside.  

Step 6

1. Egg wash

   Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush the top of the strudel with the egg wash. This will give the pastry a golden, shiny finish.  

Step 7

1. Bake

   Transfer the strudel to the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.  

Step 8

1. Cool and serve

    Allow the strudel to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.