national-apple-strudel-day-june-17

National Apple Strudel Day June 17

Imagine biting into a slice of history with every piece of Apple Strudel you enjoy. This Austrian dessert isn't just a treat for the taste buds; it's a journey through time, tracing back to the 17th century. Known in its homeland as "Apfelstrudel," this delicacy wraps the essence of autumn in its thin, flaky layers of dough, filled with a sweet and spicy mixture of apples, sugar, cinnamon, and raisins. But how did a simple pastry from the Austrian region of Upper Austria become a beloved dessert across the globe, especially in the United States, where June 17 marks the celebration of National Apple Strudel Day? The tale is as delicious as the dessert itself, involving centuries of tradition, migration, and the universal love for a good, sweet treat. From its royal beginnings to becoming a staple in bakeries across America, the story of Apple Strudel is a testament to the power of culinary exchange and the enduring appeal of comfort food.

Key Takeaway

National Apple Strudel Day is celebrated on June 17 in the United States to promote the enjoyment of this classic Austrian dessert.
Apple Strudel, made with thin layers of dough filled with apples, sugar, cinnamon, and raisins, originated in Austria in the 17th century and gained popularity in the US through European immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Day Activities

  1. Kick off National Apple Strudel Day by diving into the kitchen early. Whip up your own strudel using a mix of tart apples, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a handful of raisins. Rolling that dough thin enough might be a challenge, but hey, it's all part of the fun. Don't forget to share your masterpiece on social media to spread the strudel love!

  2. If baking isn't your cup of tea, no worries! Many bakeries join in on the celebration, offering their take on this flaky, fruity delight. Make it your mission to sample different versions from local spots. It's a tasty way to support small businesses and maybe, just maybe, find your new favorite treat.

  3. Lastly, why not host a strudel-themed party? Invite friends and family over for a taste-testing extravaganza. Everyone can bring their homemade version or a store-bought favorite. It's a sweet opportunity to bond, share stories, and, of course, decide who the unofficial strudel king or queen is.

Interesting Facts

1. Austrian Origins

Apple Strudel, tracing back to 17th century Austria, is a testament to the country's rich culinary history.

2. Sweet Composition

This dessert wraps apples, sugar, cinnamon, and raisins in thin dough layers, baked until golden and tender.

3. A Day to Celebrate

National Apple Strudel Day on June 17, spotlights this beloved dessert, though its origins remain a mystery.

4. Global Journey

In the late 19th century, European immigrants introduced Apple Strudel to the U.S., where it quickly became a bakery staple.

5. Homemade or Store-Bought

On June 17, whether homemade or from a bakery, enjoying Apple Strudel connects fans to a slice of Austrian heritage.

Why We Love This Day

  • Celebrating a Sweet Tradition: National Apple Strudel Day honors a beloved dessert that has been warming hearts and bellies since the 17th century. Originating from Austria, this pastry has become a symbol of culinary craftsmanship and cultural heritage, making June 17 a day to indulge in a slice of history.

  • A Recipe Passed Through Generations: What's not to love about a day that encourages us to enjoy a dessert that's been handed down through generations? The making of Apple Strudel is almost like a dance between tradition and innovation, where each layer of dough tells a story of families sharing secrets and techniques to keep the authentic taste alive.

  • An Excuse to Get Baking: Let's face it, any reason to whip up a dessert as delicious as Apple Strudel is a good one. National Apple Strudel Day gives amateur and seasoned bakers alike the perfect excuse to roll up their sleeves, fill their kitchens with the aroma of baking apples and cinnamon, and maybe even experiment with their own twists on the classic recipe.

Past & Future Dates

Month Day Year
JUNE 17 2022
JUNE 17 2023
JUNE 17 2024
JUNE 17 2025
JUNE 17 2026
JUNE 17 2027
JUNE 17 2028

FAQ

What is the national day for June 17th?

Today is National Eat Your Vegetables Day.

What country is famous for apple strudel?

Strudel is most often associated with Austrian cuisine, but is also a traditional pastry in the whole area formerly belonging to the Austro-Hungarian empire.

What is the cultural significance of apple strudel?

One of the most popular treats in any traditional Viennese café, this iconic dessert is considered by many to be the national dish of Austria. Often mistaken for being of German origin, the oldest known strudel recipe dates back to 1697 and survives today in a handwritten cookbook in the Vienna Town Hall Library.

What's the difference between apple strudel and apple streusel?

Easy to confuse due to the similar names, strudel and streusel are actually different types of dessert. An apple strudel has thin sheets of pastry wrapped around the filling, while streusel is a crumbly sweet topping of sugar, flour, and butter that is often layered over pies and cakes.