EASY APPLE STRUDEL

1/3 cup raisins (reg or golden)
2 tbsp water
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups apples, peeled & coarsely chopped
1/3 sugar
2 tsp sugar
3 tbsp flour
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
8 sheets phyllo dough (18 x 14-inches)
2 tbsp melted butter
2 tbsp canola oil

Combine the raisins, water, and vanilla extract together in a small microwavable bowl. Microwave, uncovered, for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes on high; let stand in microwave for 5 minutes. Drain.

In a mixing bowl, toss the apples, 1/3 cup of sugar, flour, and cinnamon together. Add the raisins and toss lightly. Set aside.

On your work surface, place one sheet of the phyllo dough, keeping other sheets covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out. Combine the melted butter and the canola oil; reserve 2 teaspoons. Lightly brush the butter mixture on the sheet of phyllo. Repeat the process until all 8 sheets of phyllo have been used, stacking one on top of the others. Place the apple mixture in the center of the phyllo sheets to within 2-inches of both ends and one long side and within 4-inches of the other long side. Fold both short edges up over the filling. Roll up jellyroll style starting with the long side with the 2-inch border. Place strudel seam side down on a baking sheet sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Use a sharp knife to cut diagonal slits in the top of the strudel. Brush with the reserved butter mixture. Sprinkle with the 2 teaspoons of sugar.

Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 35 to 40 minutes or until golden brown. Best when served warm.

NOTE: You may make this a diabetic friendly recipe by replacing the sugar with Splenda granular. It will not affect the strudel.

 Note: File Photo