NATIONAL APPLE STRUDEL DAY

NATIONAL APPLE STRUDEL DAY

On June 17, get whirled up in pastry dough, apples, and spices and celebrate National Apple Strudel Day.

#AppleStrudelDay

Strudel is thought to have originated during the 16th century in Austria, but the earliest strudel recipes doesn't appear until 1696 during the 17th century. Interestingly, the recipe still exists in a handwritten cookbook now found in the Vienna Town Hall Library in Austria. It wasn't until the 18th century did strudel gain popularity during the Habsburg Monarchy (1867-1918).

The word strudel means "whirlpool" or "eddy" in the German language.

Apple strudel is the most widely known strudel in the world. In fact, apple strudel is considered to be the national dish of Austria. This tasty dessert is perfectly described in its German language as the sweet mixture of fruit, sugar, spices, and layers of thin dough rolled together and baked. The result is a bubbling, flaky treat.

Making traditional apple strudel is a difficult process. The dough is kneaded by flogging (slapping and folding) on a flat surface. The dough must be smooth and elastic before it can rest. Once the dough is ready, it is stretched out to a thinness similar to phyllo dough. The filling is arranged over 3/4 of the dough, with the excess dough being used to cover the filling. Once done, the strudel is arranged in a swirl pattern and baked and served with coffee or tea.

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL APPLE STRUDEL DAY

Visit your favorite bakery for a slice of apple strudel. You can also pick up a whole strudel and share it with friends. Consider making your own strudel with this apple strudel recipe. Be sure to give your bakery or your favorite baker a shout-out, too. Other great ways to celebrate the day include:

• Add a dollop of whipped create to your apple strudel.

• Dusting confectioner's sugar over a fresh-baked apple strudel.

• Add a scoop of ice cream to your apple strudel.

• Surprising a friend with apple strudel.

Share your apple strudel recipe and photos of your creation on social media using the hashtag #AppleStrudelDay!

NATIONAL APPLE STRUDEL DAY HISTORY

National Day calendar is researching the origins of this pastry holiday.