Wisconsin Apple Kringle

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that can brighten up any morning, then this Wisconsin Apple Kringle is just what you need! This flaky, buttery pastry is filled with warm spiced apple pie filling and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze. It’s a beloved recipe that I always turn to for family gatherings, cozy breakfasts, or even just when I want to indulge in something special at home. With its tender layers and gooey apple center, this Kringle is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen too!

This recipe is not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re baking for yourself or hosting friends and family, the Wisconsin Apple Kringle is perfect for any occasion—making it an all-year-round delight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Comforting: The combination of spiced apples and buttery pastry creates a warm hug in dessert form.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps, this recipe allows you to enjoy home-baked goodness without the fuss.
• Perfect for Sharing: Slice it up and watch everyone gather around; it’s hard to resist!
• Make Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake it fresh for breakfast or dessert later.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as a cozy breakfast or a sweet end to your meal—either way, it’s delightful!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this wonderful Wisconsin Apple Kringle, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. These ingredients come together beautifully to create a tender pastry that’s both satisfying and delicious.

For the Pastry

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 2 tsp active dry yeast
• 1/3 cup whole milk, warm
• 2 tsp water
• 1 egg

For the Filling

• 2 oz apple pie filling
• 1/4 tsp ground cardamom

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2–3 tsp water (for glaze)

Variations

The beauty of this Wisconsin Apple Kringle lies in its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with fillings or toppings based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Switch Up the Filling: Try using cherry or blueberry pie filling for a fruity twist!
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for added crunch.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg alongside the cardamom for extra warmth.
• Try Different Glazes: Instead of vanilla glaze, drizzle with a maple syrup glaze for a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

Start by combining warm milk, water, and yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. This step activates the yeast, which is crucial for making your pastry rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and granulated sugar. Then cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This creates those lovely flaky layers we all adore!

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the foamy yeast mixture along with an egg to your flour mixture. Stir gently until just combined—remember not to overmix! Overworking the dough can lead to tough pastries instead of tender ones.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Form your dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps solidify the butter again, which contributes to flakiness during baking.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out your chilled dough into a large rectangle. This shape will allow you to fold over your filling nicely.

Step 6: Add Filling and Shape

Spread apple pie filling down the center of your rolled-out dough and sprinkle with ground cardamom. Fold over one side of the dough lengthwise over the filling while sealing edges well. Shape into an oval or horseshoe form before transferring it onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 7: Bake Your Kringle

(Optional) Brush lightly with an egg wash for color before baking your Kringle for about 22–25 minutes until golden brown and flaky. Let it cool completely on a wire rack—this anticipation makes it even more rewarding!

Step 8: Drizzle with Glaze

In another bowl, mix powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough water until smooth. Drizzle this sweet glaze over your cooled Kringle and let it set before slicing into those delicious pieces!

Now that you’ve made your own Wisconsin Apple Kringle, enjoy every lovely slice! Whether it’s paired with coffee in the morning or served as dessert after dinner—you’ve got yourself a real treat!

Pro Tips for Making Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Making Wisconsin Apple Kringle can be a delightful experience, and a few key tips can elevate your baking to perfection!

• Use cold butter: Keeping your butter cold while mixing helps achieve that flaky texture that’s characteristic of a great pastry. It creates steam during baking, which results in those beautiful layers.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Gently combining the ingredients ensures a tender Kringle. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture, so mix just until everything comes together.
• Chill the dough: Allowing the dough to chill not only makes it easier to roll out but also helps maintain its structure when baking. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden crust.
• Experiment with fillings: While apple pie filling is traditional, feel free to get creative! Consider using other fruit fillings or even cream cheese for a delicious twist. Just remember to adjust spices as needed.
• Let it cool before glazing: Allowing the Kringle to cool completely before drizzling with glaze prevents the icing from melting away and ensures that beautiful finish stays intact.

How to Serve Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Wisconsin Apple Kringle is as beautiful as it is delicious, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering or breakfast table. Here are some ideas on how to present and serve this delightful pastry.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dust: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and enhances the sweetness without overwhelming the flavors.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: For an extra hint of warmth, gently sprinkle cinnamon over the glaze. It complements the apple filling beautifully and adds visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing blend of seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus complements the richness of the Kringle, providing a burst of freshness.
• Yogurt parfaits: Creamy yogurt layered with granola and fruit offers a nutritious side that balances out the sweetness with its tangy flavor.
• Coffee or tea: A cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea enhances your eating experience. The warmth of these beverages pairs perfectly with the flaky pastry.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a non-dairy option, serve whipped coconut cream on the side. Its lightness and subtle sweetness make it an excellent companion for this dessert.

Enjoy making your Wisconsin Apple Kringle! Whether it’s for breakfast or as a sweet treat after dinner, this delightful pastry will surely warm hearts and fill bellies. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Wisconsin Apple Kringle is not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy this delicious pastry whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Kringle to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooled Kringle tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove wrapping and place the Kringle on a baking sheet.
• Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Wisconsin Apple Kringle.

Can I use other fillings for my Wisconsin Apple Kringle?

Absolutely! While this recipe features apple pie filling, feel free to experiment with other fruits like berries or even pumpkin puree for a seasonal twist.

How can I ensure my Wisconsin Apple Kringle is flaky?

The key is using cold butter and not overmixing the dough. This allows for those lovely flaky layers that make Kringles so enjoyable!

What makes Wisconsin Apple Kringle different from regular apple pie?

Wisconsin Apple Kringle has a unique Danish pastry dough that is flaky and buttery, offering a lighter texture compared to traditional apple pie crusts.

Can I add nuts to my Wisconsin Apple Kringle?

Yes! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can be sprinkled over the apple filling for added crunch and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Wisconsin Apple Kringle as much as I do! It’s perfect for cozy breakfasts or sweet treats any time of day. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations—I’d love to hear how your version turns out. Happy baking!