Photo Courtesy of Monica Caretto of Sweet Bites blog

As promised, here is Pane Rustica’s Medjool date strudel that was served at last week’s Natural Delights Tampa Blogger’s Dinner. This recipe is very easy and would be a great addition to New Year’s day menus focused on good luck pork dishes.

Medjool dates are a very versatile fruit. Some people compare them to figs since they can be used in a similar flavor profiles, but in my opinion, they are less sweet (in a good way!) and have a better consistency.

To learn more about Natural Delights Medjool dates, check out their website or like them on Facebook.

Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS:

Phyllo dough, melted butter, pre-cooked yellow cake (or store bought), Medjool dates, Apples, Pistachios, Spiced Rum

DIRECTIONS:

In sauté pan melt butter, add sliced apples. Cook apples until slightly softened. Deglaze pan with Spiced Rum; add dates, simmer until heated through and all ingredients are incorporated. Take pan off the heat and fold in pistachios.

Let mixture cool before filling strudel.

Lay out a sheet of phyllo dough, brush with melted butter, and spread a thin layer of crumbled yellow cake, repeat 4 times.

Position date and apple mixture down the center of the phyllo rectangle. Fold the sides of the phyllo over the mixture. Transfer the roll to a parchment covered baking sheet, seam side down. Brush the top with more melted butter. Top with crystal sugar.

Bake in 350 degree convection oven for 13-15 minutes until top is brown and crispy.

Allow strudel to cool before slicing or transferring to serving platter.