National Apple Strudel Day

Delicious apple strudel on a plate, served with a dollop of whipped cream, surrounded by fall leaves.. — National apple strudel day illustration

Hey there, apple enthusiasts! Get ready to celebrate National Apple Strudel Day, a mouthwatering occasion that pays homage to this delicious dessert. Whether you prefer a flaky crust or a gooey filling, this day is all about indulging in the sweet and tangy flavors of apple strudel. So grab a plate and a fork, and let's dive into the delightful history of this delectable treat.

When is Apple Strudel Day?

It's national apple strudel day on the 17th June.

The Roots of Apple Strudel

Apple strudel, also known as Apfelstrudel, originated in Austria and quickly spread its mouthwatering appeal across the globe. This sweet pastry is made with a thin and crispy dough filled with a delectable mixture of diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and sometimes raisins. The strudel is then rolled up and baked until golden brown, creating a heavenly combination of flavors and textures.

While the exact origins of apple strudel are unclear, it is believed to have been inspired by similar desserts from the Ottoman Empire. The recipe for apple strudel as we know it today was first recorded in the late 17th century in a handwritten cookbook by Katharina Prato, a cook from Vienna. Her recipe quickly gained popularity, and apple strudel became a beloved Austrian pastry.

A Worldwide Affair

Apple strudel's irresistible taste and aroma soon transcended borders and captured the hearts (and taste buds) of people worldwide. Today, you can find variations of this delightful dessert in countries such as Germany, Hungary, the Czech Republic, and even the United States. Each region adds its own unique twist to the classic recipe, making apple strudel a dessert that truly knows no boundaries.

Celebrating National Apple Strudel Day

On National Apple Strudel Day, people come together to celebrate this pastry masterpiece in all its flaky glory. Whether you decide to bake your own apple strudel from scratch or visit a local bakery, the key is to savor every bite. Treat yourself to a warm slice, and let the sweet appley goodness transport you to dessert heaven.

History behind the term 'Apple Strudel'

1696

The Birth of Apple Strudel

The term 'apple strudel' originates from the year 1696 when the first recorded recipe for this delicious pastry was found in a handwritten cookbook in the Vienna Royal Library. The cookbook, called 'Küchenmeisterei,' was written by a Viennese physician named Dr. Johann Georg Degen and included the recipe for 'Apfelstrudel,' which translates to 'apple whirlpool.'

1450

The Birth of Strudel

The term 'apple strudel' originated in Austria during the 15th century. The delicate and flaky pastry known as strudel was born as a result of Turkish influences in the region. Turkish Baklava makers introduced their trade secrets, including the technique of stretching dough paper-thin, to Austrian bakers. This technique soon became the foundation for creating various types of strudels, including the renowned apple strudel.

18th Century

Rise in Popularity

During the 18th century, apple strudel gained popularity in the Austrian-Hungarian Empire, particularly in Vienna. It became a beloved pastry among the aristocracy and quickly spread to the local bakeries and cafés, where it became a staple on their menus. The dough, stretched thin and filled with spiced apples, raisins, and breadcrumbs, became synonymous with Viennese culinary traditions.

1696

Strudel's First Written Appearance

The term 'apple strudel' gained its earliest written mention in a handwritten cookbook by Anna Wecker from Klosterneuburg, Austria in 1696. The recipe for apple strudel was documented, infusing the term into the culinary vocabulary of the time. This provided a means for the recipe to be shared and spread across different regions, further solidifying the term in European culture.

19th Century

Exportation and Reinvention

In the 19th century, apple strudel traveled beyond Vienna's borders and gained recognition in other European countries. It became a popular dessert in Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, and other neighboring regions. Each country added its own twist to the recipe, incorporating local ingredients and flavors, resulting in regional variations of this delectable treat.

18th Century

Vienna's Strudel Popularity

During the 18th century, apple strudel gained immense popularity in Vienna, Austria. Viennese bakers perfected the art of creating thin, crispy layers of pastry with a delectable apple filling. The term 'apple strudel' became closely associated with Vienna and the Austrian culinary tradition. It became a beloved pastry in cafes and households, often enjoyed with a dollop of fresh cream or vanilla sauce.

19th Century

The Spread to Eastern Europe

In the 19th century, apple strudel's popularity transcended borders and spread to other parts of Eastern Europe. As people migrated and shared cultural traditions, the term 'apple strudel' spread to countries like Hungary, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Poland. Each region added its own unique twist to the recipe, incorporating local ingredients and flavors, thereby diversifying the apple strudel even further.

20th Century

International Recognition

In the 20th century, apple strudel achieved international recognition and became a symbol of Viennese cuisine worldwide. It gained popularity in America, especially among Jewish immigrants who brought their Eastern European recipes with them. Apple strudel was embraced by American bakeries, restaurants, and homes, solidifying its place as a beloved dessert in diverse culinary cultures.

Present Day

Continued Delight

Today, apple strudel remains a cherished pastry enjoyed by people all around the globe. Its sweet and tangy apple filling wrapped in delicate layers of crispy, buttery pastry continues to captivate taste buds and evoke a sense of nostalgia. Whether enjoyed with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a warm cup of tea, apple strudel carries with it the rich history of centuries past, making it a truly timeless dessert.

20th Century

Apple Strudel Goes Global

With increased globalization and international travel in the 20th century, apple strudel managed to find its way onto menus worldwide. The term 'apple strudel' became recognized and embraced far beyond its European origins. It became a symbol of Austrian and European cuisine, and today, the irresistible combination of sweet apples and delicate pastry continues to captivate taste buds across the globe.

Did you know?

Did you know that the world record for the longest apple strudel ever made was set in Germany? It measured a whopping 1,479 feet (or approximately 450 meters)! That's a whole lot of deliciousness!