Viennese Apple Strudel
1/2 cup dark raisins
2 tablespoons brandy
2 cups (2 medium) thinly sliced Granny Smith apples, peeled and cored
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons butter, softened
1 tablespoon grated lemon peel
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup apricot preserves
1 tablespoon brandy
10 sheets Fillo Dough, thawed
3 tablespoons butter, melted
Powdered sugar to dust
In large bowl, soak raisins in 1 tablespoon brandy for 2 hours. Add apples, walnuts, sugar, 2 tablespoons butter, lemon peel, cinnamon and vanilla. Mix well and set aside. In small skillet, over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter and stir in breadcrumbs. Cook about 2 minutes or until lightly browned. In small saucepan over low heat, melt apricot preserves and stir in brandy. To prepare large strudels, use 5 sheets of fillo per roll according to directions for Rolls and Strudels. Spread warm apricot mixture on top fillo sheet and sprinkle with breadcrumbs. Spread with apple mixture and roll up, placing the strudel seam side down on greased baking sheet. Score top into 6 equal sections. Repeat procedure for remaining 5 sheets of fillo. Bake in preheated 350ºF oven for 45 to 50 minutes or until golden brown. Cool. Dust with powdered sugar.
Yield: 2 large strudels