Instructions

1. Prepare the dough:
   • In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
   • In a separate bowl, mix the lukewarm water, vegetable oil, and white vinegar.
   • Gradually add the wet mixture to the flour, stirring until a dough forms.
   • Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   • Shape the dough into a ball, coat it lightly with oil, and place it in a bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 1 hour.
2. Prepare the filling:
   • In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, raisins, nuts (if using), and lemon zest.
   • In a small skillet, toast the breadcrumbs in melted butter until golden brown. Let cool and then mix into the apple mixture.
3. Assemble the strudel:
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Lay a large clean cloth or tea towel on your work surface and dust it lightly with flour.
   • Place the rested dough on the cloth and roll it out as thin as possible.
   • Gently stretch the dough with your hands, working from the center outward, until it is paper-thin. The dough should be almost transparent.
   • Brush the dough with melted butter.
   • Spread the apple filling evenly over two-thirds of the dough, leaving a border around the edges.
   • Using the cloth to help, carefully roll the dough over the filling, starting from the edge with the filling. Tuck in the sides as you roll to encase the filling.
   • Transfer the rolled strudel onto the prepared baking sheet, seam side down. Brush the top with melted butter.
4. Bake the strudel:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
   • Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
5. Serve:
   • Dust the strudel with powdered sugar before serving.
   • Slice and serve warm, optionally with vanilla sauce, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Enjoy your homemade apple strudel with its delightful combination of sweet, spiced apples and flaky pastry!