Mary Berry Pear Apple Strudel Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking to try something that combines classic flavors with a bit of a twist, Mary Berry’s pear apple strudel recipe is the perfect choice. The combination of sweet, juicy pears and crisp apples wrapped in flaky, buttery pastry is simply irresistible.

Not only does it taste incredible, but Mary Berry’s step-by-step instructions make it easy for anyone to master, whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out. Plus, it’s a great way to impress friends and family with your baking skills without too much hassle!.

Mary Berry Pear Apple Strudel Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Pear Apple Strudel, you’ll need a combination of fresh and simple ingredients that come together to create a delicious, comforting dessert. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements you’ll need:

1. Puff Pastry: The main structure of the strudel is the golden, flaky puff pastry. You can either buy ready-made puff pastry or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous. Ready-made is often preferred for ease and convenience, but homemade will give you a more authentic, buttery taste.

2. Pears and Apples: These are the star ingredients of the filling. You’ll need ripe pears and apples, typically a mixture of both for a balance of sweetness and tartness. Choose varieties that hold up well when baked, such as Bramley apples and firm pears like Conference. The apples will bring a slight tartness, while the pears provide sweetness and juiciness.

3. Butter: This ingredient is used for sautéing the fruit and adding richness to the filling. A knob of butter brings out the natural flavors of the apples and pears, enriching the filling without overpowering it.

4. Sugar: A small amount of sugar will sweeten the filling, but not too much to detract from the natural flavors of the fruit. You can use caster sugar or even a bit of brown sugar for added warmth and complexity.

5. Cinnamon: This warm spice enhances the flavor profile of the fruit filling, adding depth and a touch of cozy warmth that pairs wonderfully with apples and pears.

6. Breadcrumbs: Lightly toasted breadcrumbs help to absorb any excess moisture from the fruit, ensuring that the strudel stays crisp and doesn’t get soggy. They also add a subtle texture to the filling.

7. Egg Yolk: The egg yolk is used to brush over the pastry before baking. This gives the strudel a beautiful golden-brown finish and adds a slight sheen to the puff pastry.

8. Flour: A light dusting of flour is needed to prevent the puff pastry from sticking to the work surface while you roll it out. This ensures the pastry stays in good shape as you assemble the strudel.

Equipment Needed

The following equipment will make preparing Mary Berry’s Pear Apple Strudel easy and efficient:

1. Baking Tray: A standard baking tray is essential to bake the strudel. You’ll want one large enough to hold the rolled pastry without it being crowded.

2. Rolling Pin: To roll out the puff pastry, a good-quality rolling pin is a must. If you’re using store-bought puff pastry, you might need to roll it a bit thinner, depending on its thickness.

3. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is necessary to chop the apples and pears into even-sized pieces for the filling. This ensures even cooking and a consistent texture throughout.

4. Frying Pan: A non-stick frying pan is ideal for sautéing the fruit with butter and sugar. This pan helps caramelize the fruit slightly, enhancing the flavors before you wrap them in pastry.

5. Pastry Brush: A pastry brush is essential for brushing the egg yolk onto the pastry. This helps create that golden sheen on the finished strudel.

6. Large Mixing Bowl: A mixing bowl is necessary for tossing the fruit with sugar, cinnamon, and other ingredients before placing it on the pastry.

7. Sieve: If you’re using breadcrumbs, a fine sieve helps to ensure they are light and not clumpy, which helps in evenly distributing the breadcrumbs through the filling.

8. Oven: Of course, a well-preheated oven is needed to bake the strudel to golden perfection. An oven thermometer will help ensure the temperature is just right.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Pear Apple Strudel

Making Mary Berry’s Pear Apple Strudel is a step-by-step process that combines both the lightness of puff pastry and the warming flavors of cooked fruit. Here’s a detailed guide on how to make it:

1. Prepare The Filling

Start by peeling, coring, and chopping the apples and pears into small, bite-sized pieces. Heat a frying pan over medium heat and melt the butter.

Once the butter is foamy, add the chopped fruit, sprinkle over the sugar, and add the cinnamon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fruit is tender but still holds its shape. The sugar will caramelize slightly, creating a delicious syrupy texture.

Next, stir in the toasted breadcrumbs to absorb any moisture released by the fruit and add an extra layer of texture to the filling. Remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool while you prepare the pastry.

2. Prepare The Pastry

Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface, ensuring it’s thin and even. Once rolled out, you can trim the edges slightly to create a neat rectangle. You want the pastry to be large enough to fully wrap the filling.

3. Assemble The Strudel

Place the fruit mixture in the center of the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully fold the sides of the pastry over the fruit and then roll it up from one end to the other, sealing the edges. Brush the outside of the pastry with a beaten egg yolk to give it that signature golden color.

4. Bake The Strudel

Place the strudel onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.

5. Serve And Enjoy

Once the strudel is golden and crispy, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar, and perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of the crispy, buttery pastry with the warm, spiced fruit filling is absolutely irresistible.

Expert Tips

1. Choosing the Right Fruit: Opt for firm apples and pears that hold their shape when cooked. Softer varieties might turn mushy in the filling, losing texture.

2. Toast the Breadcrumbs: Toasting the breadcrumbs before adding them to the fruit ensures they don’t absorb too much moisture from the fruit, which could lead to a soggy strudel.

3. Avoid Overstuffing: When filling the pastry, don’t overstuff it. The puff pastry needs room to expand in the oven. A well-packed but not overstuffed strudel will bake more evenly.

4. Chill the Pastry: If your puff pastry gets too warm while you’re working with it, place it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before rolling it out. This helps the layers stay distinct and results in a flakier texture.

5. Serve with Ice Cream or Cream: This strudel is amazing on its own, but for an extra treat, serve it with some rich vanilla ice cream, custard, or whipped cream for added indulgence.

6. Experiment with Other Fruits: While pears and apples are classic, you can also experiment with other fruits like peaches, plums, or even berries for a twist on this recipe.

Mary Berry’s Pear Apple Strudel is a wonderfully warm and comforting dessert that combines the crispiness of puff pastry with a luscious, spiced fruit filling. It’s perfect for a family gathering, a cozy afternoon tea, or a special treat.

The balance between the sweet fruit and the buttery pastry is simply unbeatable. With simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, it’s a dessert that will impress without too much fuss. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe offers a great opportunity to create something truly delicious with minimal stress.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Pear Apple Strudel

Mary Berry’s Pear Apple Strudel is a delicious, comforting dessert that brings together the sweet, juicy flavors of pears and apples wrapped in a crispy, flaky pastry. While the classic version is already a treat, there are plenty of ways to make this dish your own by adding unique twists and variations. Below are some easy recipe variations that can give this traditional dessert a new spin.

1. Add Spices and Zests:
   The flavors of pears and apples pair wonderfully with spices, and adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even ginger can elevate the dish. You can also include citrus zest (such as lemon or orange) to give the filling a refreshing zest that complements the natural sweetness of the fruit.

2. Incorporate Nuts:
   Adding a handful of chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans can provide a delightful crunch to contrast with the soft, warm fruit filling. Toasting the nuts beforehand will enhance their flavor and add an extra depth of taste. Almonds, in particular, are a great addition and can be used in two forms: sliced for texture or ground for a subtle flavor.

3. Caramelized Onions and Balsamic Vinegar:
   For those who like a bit of savory contrast, incorporating caramelized onions and a touch of balsamic vinegar into the filling can create a more complex flavor profile. The sweetness of the fruit and the tanginess of the vinegar will balance each other beautifully.

4. Filling Variations:
   Experiment with adding different fruits to the mix. Consider swapping the pears or apples for other seasonal fruits like peaches, plums, or even dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. Mixing a variety of fruit will give the strudel an exciting, multi-layered taste that could surprise your taste buds.

5. Vegan or Dairy-Free Version:
   If you’re looking for a plant-based option, you can substitute the butter in the recipe with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine. The pastry can also be replaced with a store-bought vegan phyllo dough, or you can make your own using plant-based ingredients. This makes the dessert not only accessible for vegans but also for anyone with dairy sensitivities.

6. Sweet Sauce Drizzle:
   Another way to add a little flair to your Pear Apple Strudel is by drizzling it with a sweet sauce. A simple vanilla custard or a salted caramel sauce can complement the crispiness of the pastry and add a creamy richness to the dessert. For a lighter option, a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can suffice.

7. Pastry Alternatives:
   While puff pastry is the most traditional option for strudel, feel free to experiment with other types of dough or pastry. Try using filo pastry for a lighter, crispier texture, or even shortcrust pastry for a more substantial base. If you’re short on time, pre-made puff pastry sheets are a great option, but if you have more time, homemade pastry can add that extra bit of indulgence.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

If you’ve made Mary Berry’s Pear Apple Strudel and have some leftovers, you’ll want to store them properly to maintain the flavor and texture of the pastry. Here are some tips for storing your leftover strudel to ensure it stays as delicious as the day it was made:

1. Cool the Strudel Completely:
   Before you store your leftover strudel, make sure it has cooled down completely. Placing hot or warm strudel in the fridge can cause condensation, which may make the pastry soggy. Let the strudel sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour after baking.

2. Wrap It Well:
   Once the strudel is cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help prevent the pastry from drying out and protect the fruit filling from absorbing any surrounding odors in the fridge.

3. Refrigeration:
   Leftover Pear Apple Strudel should be stored in the refrigerator if you’re planning to eat it within a few days. Place the wrapped strudel in an airtight container for added protection, or keep it in a sealed bag to minimize air exposure.

4. Freezing Leftovers:
   If you have more strudel than you can consume in a few days, freezing is a great option. Slice the strudel into individual servings before wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This allows you to thaw individual portions as needed. When freezing, try to consume within 1-2 months for the best quality.

5. Reheating Leftovers:
   To bring back the crispiness of the pastry, it’s best to reheat the strudel in the oven rather than the microwave. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the strudel on a baking sheet, and warm it for about 10-15 minutes or until it’s heated through and the pastry regains its crispiness. For an extra touch, you can brush the top with a little butter or a sprinkle of sugar before reheating.

What Goes Well With Pear Apple Strudel

Pear Apple Strudel is a sweet, fruity dessert that can be enjoyed on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can enhance its flavors and turn it into a truly indulgent treat. Here are some options that complement this delightful dessert:

1. Whipped Cream:
   A dollop of freshly whipped cream is a classic pairing with strudel. Its light and airy texture balances the rich, buttery pastry, and the creaminess complements the sweetness of the fruit filling. You can also add a touch of vanilla extract or cinnamon to the whipped cream for added flavor.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream:
   For a more indulgent treat, serve your Pear Apple Strudel with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool, creamy texture of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, spiced strudel. If you want to get more creative, try a cinnamon or caramel ice cream to further enhance the flavors of the dessert.

3. Custard or Sauce:
   A rich, creamy vanilla custard or sauce makes an excellent accompaniment. The velvety custard adds a luxurious element to the dish, while its subtle sweetness doesn’t overpower the fruit in the strudel. A drizzle of caramel sauce also works well if you want a sweeter, more decadent touch.

4. Fresh Berries:
   Fresh berries like raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries can add a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the pear apple filling. The natural acidity of the berries will cut through the richness of the pastry and offer a refreshing burst of flavor.

5. Tea or Coffee:
   The delicate flavors of Pear Apple Strudel are beautifully complemented by a warm cup of tea or coffee. A mild Earl Grey or chamomile tea pairs wonderfully with the sweet, spiced strudel, while a cup of coffee, whether brewed black or with a splash of cream, balances the dessert’s richness.

6. Nuts or Almonds:
   If you like a bit of crunch, you can serve the strudel with toasted nuts like almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts. Their roasted flavors and crisp textures add a new dimension to the dish, providing a delightful contrast to the soft, baked fruit and flaky pastry.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Pear Apple Strudel is a timeless dessert that effortlessly combines the sweet, warm flavors of fruit with the crisp, buttery texture of pastry. Its versatility makes it the perfect dish to customize to your tastes, whether by adding spices, nuts, or other fruits.

The best practices for storing leftovers ensure that this delightful dessert stays fresh for days to come, and the many pairing options allow you to enjoy it in various ways, whether as an after-dinner treat or a mid-afternoon snack. Whether you’re enjoying it with a scoop of ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or alongside a cup of tea, this dessert is sure to be a hit every time.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For Mary Berry’s Pear Apple Strudel?

For Mary Berry’s pear apple strudel, you’ll need the following ingredients: pears, apples, puff pastry, butter, sugar, ground cinnamon, lemon juice, and some optional sultanas or raisins. You’ll also need egg wash for a golden finish on the pastry.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Fruit In Mary Berry’s Pear Apple Strudel Recipe?

Yes, you can modify the fruit combination. While pears and apples are a classic pairing, you could also try using other fruits like peaches, plums, or even mixed berries for a different flavor profile.

Do I Have To Use Puff Pastry For Mary Berry’s Pear Apple Strudel?

Puff pastry is traditionally used for strudel due to its flakiness and light texture, but you can use filo pastry as an alternative if you prefer. Filo pastry will create a crispier texture compared to puff pastry.

How Do I Prepare The Pears And Apples For The Strudel?

Peel, core, and slice the pears and apples thinly to ensure they cook evenly within the pastry. Toss the slices with a little lemon juice to prevent browning and to add a slight tang that complements the sweetness of the fruit.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Pear Apple Strudel In Advance?

Yes, you can prepare the strudel in advance. Assemble the strudel and freeze it before baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply brush with egg wash and bake directly from the freezer, though you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What Temperature Should I Bake Mary Berry’s Pear Apple Strudel At?

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F. Bake the strudel for 25 to 30 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crispy, and the fruit inside is tender and bubbling.

Can I Use Store-bought Pastry For Mary Berry’s Pear Apple Strudel?

Yes, you can absolutely use store-bought puff pastry to save time. Just ensure it’s thawed properly if frozen, and follow the recipe as you would with homemade pastry.

How Do I Get The Strudel’s Pastry To Be Golden And Crispy?

To achieve a golden, crispy pastry, brush the top of the assembled strudel with an egg wash (a beaten egg mixed with a little water or milk) before baking. This gives the pastry a beautiful, shiny finish.

What Should I Serve With Mary Berry’s Pear Apple Strudel?

Mary Berry’s pear apple strudel is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with a dollop of whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or custard for a comforting dessert.

How Do I Store Leftovers Of Mary Berry’s Pear Apple Strudel?

If you have leftover strudel, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore some of the crispiness.