Wisconsin Apple Kringle

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that warms your heart and fills your home with delightful aromas, then this Wisconsin Apple Kringle is just the recipe for you! This flaky, buttery pastry is filled with spiced apple pie filling, making it perfect for breakfast or as a sweet dessert. It’s one of those recipes that brings the family together, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering. Once you try this traditional Wisconsin treat, I promise it will become a beloved favorite in your household.

The best part? This Wisconsin Apple Kringle is not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make. You’ll love how the buttery layers come together effortlessly, creating a stunning pastry that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, anyone can whip up this delightful kringle at home.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore the warm apple filling and sweet glaze—perfect for any age!
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch with friends or a cozy dessert after dinner, this kringle fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the dough ahead of time! Chill it overnight for an even easier baking experience.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spiced apples and buttery pastry creates a flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Wisconsin Apple Kringle uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Gather these items, and let’s get started on creating something truly special!

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

One of the great things about this Wisconsin Apple Kringle is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or pantry items. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the Filling: Experiment with other fruit fillings like cherry or peach for a different flavor twist.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and texture.
• Try Different Spices: Mix in cinnamon or nutmeg along with cardamom for an extra layer of warmth.
• Drizzle with Chocolate: For chocolate lovers, drizzle melted chocolate over the top instead of glaze!

How to Make Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm milk, water, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. This step is crucial because activating the yeast helps your dough rise beautifully, resulting in that lovely flaky texture we adore.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. It’s important to keep the butter cold; this creates those delicious flaky layers we want in our pastry.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the yeast mixture and egg to the flour mixture. Stir just until dough comes together—do not overmix. Overworking can make your kringle tough instead of tender!

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Form into a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling allows the gluten to relax and makes rolling out much easier.

Step 5: Preheat Oven & Roll Out Dough

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out chilled dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface. The goal here is to create an even base so every bite has that perfect balance of crust and filling.

Step 6: Fill with Apples

Spread apple pie filling down the center of your dough rectangle and sprinkle with cardamom. This aromatic spice adds warmth to our delicious apple filling.

Step 7: Shape Your Kringle

Fold the dough over the filling lengthwise, sealing the edges. Shape into an oval or horseshoe form and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. This step not only seals in all those yummy flavors but also gives us that traditional kringle shape!

Step 8: Bake Until Golden Brown

Brush with a bit of egg wash (optional) and bake for 22–25 minutes until golden brown and flaky. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely heavenly—trust me!

Step 9: Prepare Glaze & Drizzle

Mix powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and water until smooth. Drizzle over cooled kringle and let set before slicing. This final touch adds sweetness while making our beautiful pastry shine.

Now you have created your very own Wisconsin Apple Kringle—a delightful treat perfect for sharing (or indulging all by yourself). Enjoy every flaky bite!

Pro Tips for Making Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Making a perfect Wisconsin Apple Kringle can be a delightful experience, and these tips will ensure your pastry is as flaky and delicious as possible!

• Use cold ingredients: Keeping your butter and other ingredients cold is key to achieving that tender, flaky texture. Warm butter can lead to a dough that spreads too much during baking.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Once you’ve combined the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until they come together. Overmixing can develop gluten, making your crust tough instead of tender.
• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough not only makes it easier to handle but also helps maintain the flakiness by keeping the butter solid until baking.
• Experiment with fillings: While apple pie filling is traditional, feel free to try other fruit fillings or even cream cheese for a fun twist. Just keep in mind that the moisture level may vary.
• Let it cool before glazing: Allow your Kringle to cool completely on a wire rack before drizzling with glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting into the warm pastry, ensuring a beautiful finish.

How to Serve Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Presenting your Wisconsin Apple Kringle can transform it from a simple pastry into a stunning centerpiece. Here are some suggestions for serving this delightful treat!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and enhances the visual appeal without overwhelming the flavors.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A dash of ground cinnamon on top of your glaze can add a warm spice note that complements the apple filling beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the Kringle and adds vibrant color to your plate.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and berries alongside your Kringle for a wholesome breakfast option that’s both filling and satisfying.
• Coffee or tea: Pairing this pastry with a warm beverage like coffee or herbal tea enhances the cozy experience, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds creaminess and an extra layer of indulgence—perfect if you’re serving it as dessert!

Enjoy crafting your Wisconsin Apple Kringle, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family! It’s sure to become a beloved recipe in your home.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Wisconsin Apple Kringle is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a delightful pastry whenever you crave something sweet. You can prepare the dough in advance, store it, and bake fresh Kringle whenever you’re ready to indulge!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Kringle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate leftovers for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled Kringle tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; when ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the Kringle on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave slices for about 15-20 seconds; be careful not to overheat.

FAQs

If you’re curious about Wisconsin Apple Kringle, here are some common questions that might help!

Can I make Wisconsin Apple Kringle without yeast?

Yes! While yeast gives this Kringle its lovely texture, you can substitute with baking powder for a quicker version. However, the flavor may differ slightly.

How do I store Wisconsin Apple Kringle?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, freezing is a great option!

What can I use instead of apple pie filling?

You can use homemade apple filling made from fresh apples, sugar, and spices if you prefer. Just ensure it’s thick enough so it doesn’t make the dough soggy.

What makes Wisconsin Apple Kringle different from regular pastries?

Wisconsin Apple Kringle features a flaky Danish-style pastry that’s unique due to its layering process. The combination of spiced apple filling and vanilla glaze adds a cozy touch that sets it apart!

Final Thoughts

This Wisconsin Apple Kringle is not just a treat; it’s an experience—a delightful way to bring warmth into your kitchen and share smiles with family and friends. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! Grab your ingredients, get baking, and let the delicious aroma fill your home. Happy baking!