As the warm scent of baking pastry fills my kitchen, I’m reminded of cozy mornings spent savoring homemade treats. This recipe for Homemade Toaster Strudels brings back that nostalgic pleasure, transforming a simple breakfast into a delightful moment of indulgence. I love to serve these flaky pastries with a variety of fruit fillings, and every bite feels like a little treat tailored just for me and my family.
There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating your own version of this classic snack. Not only do they taste far better than their store-bought counterparts, but they are also surprisingly easy to make. You won’t find any strange preservatives here—just fresh ingredients combined in ways that make your taste buds sing.
Perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch or an energizing snack during a busy weekday, these strudels are as versatile as they are delicious. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet strawberry, zesty raspberry, or comforting cinnamon apple, this recipe offers you the freedom to fill them however you like. Let’s dive into this unique and flavorful journey of homemade goodness!
Why You'll Love This Toaster Strudels
- These Homemade Toaster Strudels are not only easy to prepare but also allow you to indulge in a delightful treat without the hassle of complicated steps.
- The combination of fresh ingredients results in a flavor that far surpasses store-bought versions, making each bite a dreamy experience.
- With endless filling options, you can easily customize these pastries to suit your mood, whether you crave something fruity or creamy.
- Their golden, flaky appearance is sure to impress anyone you serve, making them a crowd-pleaser for breakfasts or snacks alike.
Toaster Strudels Ingredients
• You won’t believe how simple it is to make these delicious toaster strudels from scratch!
For the Dough
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour – This is the foundation of your strudel, providing structure and flakiness.
- 1 teaspoon sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness to the dough.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the strudel.
- 1 cup unsalted butter – Cold, cut into small cubes for that perfect flaky texture.
- ½ cup cold water – Necessary for binding the dough; ensure it’s cold for optimal results.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional) – A splash of acidity helps to achieve extra flakiness.
For the Filling
- 1 cup fruit preserves – Choose your favorite flavor like strawberry, blueberry, or raspberry for the sweetest fillings!
- ¼ cup cream cheese (optional) – Adds a rich, creamy layer to the fruit filling if you’re feeling indulgent.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) – Enhances the flavor of the filling beautifully.
For the Topping
- 1 egg – Use for egg wash to ensure your pastries have a beautiful golden color.
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for glaze, optional) – Sweetens up and beautifully finishes the strudels.
- 1 tablespoon milk – Use to adjust the consistency of your glaze as needed.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze) – Adds a fragrant note to the sweet glaze that is irresistible.
How to Make Toaster Strudels
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Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and cut it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add cold water and lemon juice, stirring until the dough just comes together. Knead a few times, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
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Prepare the Filling: While the dough chills, combine the fruit preserves and cream cheese (if using) in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and well blended, then set aside for later use.
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Roll Out the Dough: Once chilled, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ⅛-inch thickness. Cut into rectangles, approximately 3 x 4 inches.
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Fill the Rectangles: Spoon a tablespoon of the fruit preserves mixture into the center of each rectangle. Be cautious not to overfill, as this can cause them to burst during baking. Feel free to incorporate cream cheese for a richer filling!
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Seal the Strudels: Fold the dough over the filling to create a pocket. Pinch the edges firmly to seal and use a fork to crimp down the edges for extra security. Make a few slits on top to allow steam to escape while they bake.
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Egg Wash and Bake: In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush it over each strudel. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
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Prepare the Glaze: While the strudels are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for the glaze. Drizzle over the cooled strudels and allow it to set for a few minutes before enjoying!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon on the glaze for extra flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Toaster Strudels
Room Temperature: Store your toaster strudels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for the best taste and texture.
Fridge: If you prefer, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to wrap them well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each strudel tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: For a delightful treat, reheat the frozen strudels in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This restores their flaky texture!
Toaster Strudels Variations
Feel free to get creative as you customize these delectable pastries to match your taste or dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious alternative without compromising on flakiness.
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Vegan: Use coconut oil or vegan butter for the dough, and swap out the egg wash with a plant-based milk for a beautiful finish.
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Savory: Try using roasted vegetables and goat cheese or a spinach and feta mixture for a delightful twist on the classic sweet filling.
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Sweet Spices: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice to the dough for a warm, cozy flavor. Warm spices will transform the taste into something special!
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Choco-Berry: Mix in some mini chocolate chips with your fruit preserves for an indulgent chocolate-berry treat that makes for a perfect dessert.
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Nuts & Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, into your fruit filling for an added crunch that enhances the overall texture and flavor.
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Fruit Medley: Combine different fruit preserves like peach and raspberry or blueberry and lemon for a delightful surprise in every bite; your taste buds will thank you!
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Zesty Citrus: Add a swirl of lemon or orange zest to your fruit filling for a bright and refreshing kick that truly elevates the pastry experience.
What to Serve with Homemade Toaster Strudels?
Creating the perfect breakfast or snack experience means considering delightful pairings that enhance your homemade treats.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits brightens up your meal and adds refreshing flavors that contrast beautifully with the warm strudels.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this sweet topping complements the filling while adding a luscious texture to each bite.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of your favorite brew pairs perfectly with strudels, further elevating the comforting experience of your homemade pastries.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and fruit, a yogurt parfait brings creaminess and crunch, balancing the crispiness of the strudels.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: A touch of maple syrup provides an added layer of sweetness, making each bite a delectable treat that feels indulgent.
- Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For a luxurious twist, serve with a rich chocolate sauce for dipping. The combination will satisfy any sweet tooth and add a touch of decadence.
- Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Sprinkling a mix of cinnamon and sugar on top adds a delightful crunch and an aromatic spice that perfectly complements any fruit filling.
- Milk: A classic pairing, a glass of cold milk enhances the flavors of the strudels, making for a nostalgic, comforting experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: For a dessert twist, serve warm strudels with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, melting into the pastry for a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
- Sparkling Water: A refreshing option, bubbly water can cleanse the palate and enhance the delightful flavors of the strudels, making them feel extra special.
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Toaster Strudels are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply follow the initial steps, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. The filling can also be made ahead; combine the fruit preserves and cream cheese, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your strudels, just roll out the chilled dough, fill it, seal, and bake. Trust me, they’ll taste just as delicious as if you’d made them fresh that morning!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For your toaster strudels, make sure to keep your butter very cold to achieve that perfect flaky texture, as warm butter can lead to tough pastries.
- Avoid overfilling the dough pockets to prevent them from bursting during baking, which can create a messy situation.
- When sealing the strudels, use a fork to crimp the edges tightly to ensure they stay closed while baking.
- Bake your strudels at a consistent temperature of 375°F for 20-25 minutes to achieve that golden brown color and crispy texture you desire.
Homemade Toaster Strudels Recipe FAQs
What kind of fruit preserves work best for toaster strudels?
Absolutely! You can use any fruit preserves that tickle your taste buds. Popular choices include strawberry, blueberry, raspberry, or even apple. What’s great is that you can mix and match flavors or even try out seasonal fruits!
How should I store leftover toaster strudels?
Very! For optimal freshness, store your toaster strudels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you think you won’t finish them in that time, you can keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days—just make sure they’re well wrapped to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze toaster strudels? How?
Yes, you can! To freeze your toaster strudels, start by wrapping each strudel tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a resealable freezer bag. This way, they can last up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes for that perfect crispy texture.
What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, don’t worry! Sprinkle a little extra flour on your work surface and on your rolling pin as you roll it out. This should help you manage the stickiness. Always remember to chill your dough properly; a cold dough is a dream to work with when making pastries!
Are there any dietary considerations for making toaster strudels?
Indeed! If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free flour if you need to avoid gluten. For a dairy-free option, substitute unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative, and choose fruit preserves that don’t contain any added dairy. It’s all about making it work for everyone’s preferences!
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling Pin
- Baking Sheet
- Whisk
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour provides structure and flakiness
- 1 teaspoon sugar adds a hint of sweetness
- ½ teaspoon salt enhances flavor
- 1 cup unsalted butter cold, cut into small cubes
- ½ cup cold water necessary for binding
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice optional for extra flakiness
Filling
- 1 cup fruit preserves choose your favorite flavor
- ¼ cup cream cheese optional for a creamy layer
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional to enhance flavor
Topping
- 1 egg for egg wash to achieve golden color
- ½ cup powdered sugar for glaze, optional
- 1 tablespoon milk to adjust glaze consistency
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for glaze
Instructions
How to Make Toaster Strudels
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold cubed butter, cutting until it resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add cold water and lemon juice, stirring until dough just comes together. Knead a few times, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- While the dough chills, combine fruit preserves and cream cheese in a small bowl. Stir until smooth, then set aside.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out dough on a floured surface to about ⅛-inch thickness. Cut into rectangles of approximately 3 x 4 inches.
- Spoon a tablespoon of the fruit preserves mixture into the center of each rectangle, being careful not to overfill.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a pocket. Pinch edges firmly to seal and use a fork to crimp down edges. Make slits on top to allow steam to escape.
- Beat the egg and brush it over each strudel. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.
- While strudels cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for the glaze. Drizzle over cooled strudels and allow to set.
