The aroma of baked apples wafts through the air, mingling with a slight hint of butter and cinnamon—it’s hard to resist! Today, I’m excited to share my take on Wisconsin Apple Kringle, a delightful Danish-style pastry that transforms any meal into a celebration. With its flaky layers enveloping a spiced apple filling and finished off with a luscious vanilla glaze, this kringle captures the essence of comfort food while elevating your homemade breakfast or dessert game. Not only is it surprisingly simple to prepare, but it also has an inviting charm that makes it perfect for sharing with family and friends. So, are you ready to roll up your sleeves and create this flaky masterpiece? Let’s dive in!
Why is Wisconsin Apple Kringle a must-try?
Irresistible Delight: The combination of tender, flaky pastry and spiced apple filling creates an experience that’s hard to forget.
Homemade Goodness: This kringle is not just dessert; it’s a celebration of togetherness, perfect for holiday breakfasts or cozy gatherings.
Quick Preparation: Surprisingly simple to make, the steps are easy enough for beginners—no need to shy away from baking!
Versatile Flavor: Enjoy it warm, with a cup of coffee or tea, or even as a delightful addition to brunch spreads alongside fresh Apple Cake Cream.
Cultural Touch: Rooted in Scandinavian traditions, this recipe brings a touch of heritage to your kitchen, connecting you to family recipes passed down through generations.
With each slice, feel the warmth and love that makes this Wisconsin Apple Kringle an instant favorite!
Wisconsin Apple Kringle Ingredients
For the Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the pastry; a gluten-free blend works as a substitute.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; no substitutions necessary.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough; brown sugar can deepen the flavor.
• Dry Yeast – Helps the dough rise and develop a flaky texture; instant yeast is a great alternative.
• Butter (cold) – Essential for achieving flakiness; avoid margarine for the best results.
• Egg – Adds richness and binds the dough; flaxseed meal can be used for a vegan version.
For the Spiced Apple Filling
• Spiced Apple Filling – A mix of sliced apples, cinnamon, sugar, and nutmeg; consider store-bought filling for convenience.
For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Used to create a sweet glaze; no substitutes are recommended.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic flavor to the glaze; switch it out for almond extract for a twist.
Embrace the cozy charm of the Wisconsin Apple Kringle with these simple yet delightful ingredients!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Wisconsin Apple Kringle
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, granulated sugar, and dry yeast. Using a pastry cutter, cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Mix in the egg and add cold water gradually, stirring until a soft dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill, which helps achieve that perfect flaky texture.
Step 2: Shape the Kringle
Once the dough has chilled, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into an oval shape, about ¼ inch thick. Spread the spiced apple filling evenly over the surface, leaving a small border. Fold the dough over, sealing the edges tightly, and gently shape it into a loose oval or horseshoe on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Bake the Pastry
Before baking, whisk an egg in a small bowl and use it to brush the top of the kringle for a beautiful golden crust. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the kringle is golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on it as it bakes, enjoying the aroma of the Wisconsin Apple Kringle filling your kitchen.
Step 4: Add the Glaze
Once baked, remove the kringle from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. In a separate bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and a splash of milk to create a smooth glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the warm Wisconsin Apple Kringle, allowing it to soak into the warm pastry and enhance its sweetness.
How to Store and Freeze Wisconsin Apple Kringle
Room Temperature: Keep the kringle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its flaky texture and delightful flavor.
Fridge: If you need to extend the freshness, you can refrigerate the kringle for up to 5 days. Wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the kringle for up to 1 month before glazing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the kringle for about 10-15 minutes. This will restore its delightful flakiness.
Wisconsin Apple Kringle Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to personalize your Wisconsin Apple Kringle with these exciting twists and substitutes.
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Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for delightful crunch and flavor complexity.
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Alternative Fruits: Swap out apples for ripe pears or juicy berries to bring a fresh, fruity twist to your kringle.
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Creamy Filling: Mix in some cream cheese to the apple filling for a rich, velvety layer that enhances every bite.
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Vegan Option: Substitute the egg with flaxseed meal and opt for plant-based butter for a delicious vegan kringle everyone can enjoy.
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Flavorful Glaze: Experiment with a lemon or orange zest-infused glaze for a citrusy kick that brightens the overall taste.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne or jalapeño flakes to the apple filling for a warming heat that beautifully contrasts the sweetness.
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Fruity Glaze: Use fresh apple cider in your glaze for an added layer of flavor that complements the apple filling effortlessly.
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Mini Kris: Create individual servings by shaping the kringle into smaller rounds, giving everyone their own delightful pastry to savor.
Let your creativity shine as you whip up this cozy treat, and if you’re looking for delightful combinations, try enjoying a slice with a warm cup of coffee alongside some Apple Fries Sweet!
What to Serve with Wisconsin Apple Kringle
Enjoy the warm, flaky goodness of this pastry while thinking about the perfect accompaniments to elevate your experience.
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Fresh Brewed Coffee: The rich aroma and robust flavors of coffee perfectly balance the sweet, spiced apple filling, making each bite even more satisfying.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla on warm kringle creates a delightful contrast in temperature that’s pure bliss on your palate.
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Cinnamon Tea: Sipping on aromatic cinnamon tea enhances the cozy elements of this pastry, making it a perfect companion for chilly days.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: For an extra layer of sweetness, a light drizzle of maple syrup elevates the flavors of the kringle, echoing its autumnal essence.
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Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that adds texture, complementing the softness of the pastry.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits adds a light, tart contrast to the rich flavors of the kringle, making it a perfect breakfast spread.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: For those with a sweet tooth, a dollop of cream cheese frosting brings a tangy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the apple filling.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: A glass of fizzy apple cider will add a festive touch, making your kringle experience feel like a special occasion.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the kringle introduces a luscious sweetness that makes each piece irresistibly decadent.
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Herbal Infusion: A soothing herbal infusion with hints of chamomile or mint can cleanse the palate and provides a calming effect alongside your kringle.
Expert Tips for Wisconsin Apple Kringle
• Chill the Dough: Ensure your dough is well-chilled before shaping; cold butter is key to a flaky Wisconsin Apple Kringle.
• Seal Properly: Firmly seal the edges of the kringle to prevent any spiced apple filling from leaking out during baking.
• Egg Wash: Don’t skip the egg wash! It creates a beautiful, shiny crust that enhances the appearance of your kringle.
• Watch the Oven: Monitor your kringle closely as it bakes. Ovens vary, and you want it perfectly golden, not overbaked.
• Flavor Boost: For an extra hint of warmth, feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to your apple filling for added depth.
Make Ahead Options
Wisconsin Apple Kringle is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked goodness even on busy days! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its flakiness. The spiced apple filling can be made and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, preventing any browning by ensuring the apples are mixed with sugar and spices right away. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the chilled dough, fill it with your prepped apple mixture, and bake as directed. You’ll enjoy a delightful, freshly baked kringle with minimal effort!
Wisconsin Apple Kringle Recipe FAQs
What type of apples are best for the spiced apple filling?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using a mix of tart and sweet apples. Granny Smith apples add a nice tartness, while Fuji or Honeycrisp apples provide sweetness. This combination will keep the filling balanced and delicious!
How should I store the Wisconsin Apple Kringle?
To ensure your kringle stays fresh, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days, but make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze the Wisconsin Apple Kringle?
Yes! You can freeze the kringle before glazing to preserve its wonderful flavors. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then glaze and bake it.
What if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough seems sticky, don’t worry! Just sprinkle in a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time, while kneading until it reaches the right consistency. It’s essential to have a soft but manageable dough to achieve that perfect flaky texture.
Can I make this kringle vegan?
Absolutely! To make this Wisconsin Apple Kringle vegan, simply replace the egg with a flaxseed meal substitute: mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for a few minutes to thicken, and use it as you would the egg. Additionally, you can swap the butter for a vegan butter alternative.
How long can the spiced apple filling be stored?
The spiced apple filling can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. Just ensure it’s in a sealed container to maintain its freshness! If you’re using fresh apples, try to prepare the filling on the same day to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
Wisconsin Apple Kringle: Your New Favorite Cozy Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, granulated sugar, and dry yeast. Cut in the cold butter until coarse crumbs form, then mix in the egg and add cold water gradually. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the chilled dough into an oval shape, about ¼ inch thick. Spread the spiced apple filling evenly over the surface, fold the dough over, sealing the edges, and shape it into a loose oval on the baking sheet.
- Brush the top of the kringle with whisked egg for a golden crust. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.
- Let the kringle cool for about 10 minutes. Whisk together powdered sugar and a splash of milk to create the glaze, then drizzle it over the kringle.
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