Jabolčni Štruklji
Slovenian Apple Dumplings
Štruklji are traditional Slovenian rolled dumplings, and the apple version is a beloved sweet treat. Thin dough is filled with a spiced apple mixture, then rolled, wrapped, and boiled to create a tender, comforting dessert or snack.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2.5 cups All-purpose flour(plus more for dusting)
- 0.75 cup Lukewarm water
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil(plus more for brushing)
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 4 large Apples(peeled, cored, and grated or thinly sliced)
- 0.5 cup Sugar(adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp Cinnamon
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
- 0.25 cup Raisins (optional)
- 0.5 cup Breadcrumbs(for toasting)
- 2 tbsp Butter(for toasting breadcrumbs)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and vegetable oil. Gradually add lukewarm water while mixing until a soft, pliable dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
- 2
Prepare the filling: In a bowl, combine the grated apples, sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and raisins (if using). Mix well.
- 3
Toast the breadcrumbs: Melt butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add breadcrumbs and toast until golden brown. Set aside.
- 4
Assemble the štruklji: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface or a clean kitchen towel until very thin (almost translucent). Brush lightly with oil.
- 5
Spread the apple filling evenly over two-thirds of the dough, leaving a border. Sprinkle with half of the toasted breadcrumbs. Carefully roll up the dough using the towel to help, creating a log. Pinch the ends to seal.
- 6
Wrap the roll tightly in a clean kitchen towel, tying the ends securely with string. Repeat with remaining dough and filling if making multiple rolls.
- 7
Cook the štruklji: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully place the wrapped štruklji into the boiling water. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 25-30 minutes.
- 8
Remove the štruklji from the water, unwrap, and let cool slightly. Slice and serve warm, sprinkled with the remaining toasted breadcrumbs and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Stretching the dough very thin is key to authentic štruklji.
- ✓If the dough is difficult to stretch, let it rest for a few more minutes.
- ✓Ensure the štruklji are wrapped tightly to prevent them from unraveling during cooking.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Other common fillings include cottage cheese, walnuts, or poppy seeds.
- Some recipes call for baking the štruklji instead of boiling.