Making a recipe yours. Be bold!

There are so many good recipes out there, but one should never be afraid to change the recipe up.   I know several people who do not and will not stray from the recipe they are given.   I can understand trying a new recipe the first time and sticking to it but after that it is time to make it mine.

Here is a simple thing to change up,  Allrecipe Apple Strudel. It is a good solid recipe and very traditional.  I like it very much.  In all reality nothing needs to be changed about it, but if you are like me you just can't leave it alone.

So here is what I did.  It is pretty tasty...

Apple Pear Strudel

Here is what you need...

1 pear

2 or 3 granny smith apples.  depending on their size

1 tablespoon pumpkin spice (add more if you like it stronger)

Sugar.   This is a person preference.   Depending on how sweet you like your food.

1/2 cup nuts.   I have used walnuts and pecans.

1/2 - 1 cup rum or whisky

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed.

Pumpkin butter

1 egg white.

Here is what you do...

• Peel, core and thinly slice the pear and apples.
• In a pan added the pear, apples, pumpkin spice, sugar and rum.   Simmer until fruit is almost cooked through and the rum has cooked down.  
• While fruit is cooking, roll out the pastry crust slightly on a floored surface.
• Spread a layer of pumpkin butter of the pastry and sprinkle with nuts.  Use more if 1/2 cup is not enough for you.
• When the fruit has finished cooking, spoon onto pastry, about 4 inches from one end.   You to be able to fold the end to cover the fruit.   Makes it easier to roll.   Roll the fruit and pastry into a roll, tucking in the ends as you roll.
• Place the strudel on a greased pan.
• Whisk the egg white and brush on top the strudel.
• Place in 350 over uncovered.   Bake until the pastry is golden on the top.  30 -45 minutes depending on your over.

If you can wait, let the strudel sit for a few minutes to cool.  Well be easier to cut.   If you are like me... don't wait.   Cut right away and enjoy.   Serve with vanilla ice cream.

I have used apple butter in place of the pumpkin butter.  I have use craisins and golden raisins to add another layer of flavor.  Also try different apples.  So many to pick from.

As you can see it is an easy recipe to change up and make your own.  Have fun experimenting!   Enjoy!