Wisconsin Apple Kringle

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that feels like a warm hug, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! This Wisconsin Apple Kringle is a cherished family favorite that brings the cozy vibes of autumn to any occasion. Imagine flaky pastry enveloping sweet, spiced apple filling, all topped with a luscious vanilla glaze. Whether it’s a busy weekday morning or a festive gathering with friends and family, this kringle shines as both breakfast and dessert.

What makes this Wisconsin Apple Kringle so special is its perfect balance of buttery layers and tender apples. Each bite is a comforting reminder of home and tradition, making it hard to resist going back for seconds (or thirds!). So grab your apron, and let’s dive into creating this delicious masterpiece!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps, even novice bakers can whip up this impressive pastry.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet apple filling wrapped in flaky goodness.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch or dessert, this kringle fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough ahead of time and bake when you’re ready for that fresh-baked aroma.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spiced apples and buttery pastry creates an irresistible treat every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Wisconsin Apple Kringle is half the fun! These are simple, wholesome items that you probably have on hand. Let’s check out what you need to create this delightful pastry.

For the Dough

• 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 best parts about making your own Wisconsin Apple Kringle is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Change Up the Filling: Swap in other fruits like blueberries or cherries for a different flavor profile.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for an added crunch.
• Experiment with Spices: Try cinnamon or nutmeg alongside cardamom for added warmth and depth.
• Go Vegan: Substitute butter with plant-based alternatives and use flaxseed meal mixed with water instead of egg.

How to Make Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

In a small bowl, combine warm milk, water, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. This step activates the yeast, ensuring your dough rises beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This technique gives your kringle that signature flaky texture we all love!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the yeast mixture and egg to your dry ingredients. Stir just until the dough comes together—do not overmix. We want that tender crumb without any toughness!

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Form into a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling allows the butter to firm up again, which helps achieve layers when baking.

Step 5: Roll Out Dough

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out chilled dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface. The goal is thinness here; we want lots of layers!

Step 6: Add Filling

Spread apple pie filling down the center of the dough and sprinkle with cardamom. This spicing adds warmth that perfectly complements those sweet apples.

Step 7: Fold & Shape

Fold the dough over the filling lengthwise, sealing the edges well. Shape into an oval or horseshoe form and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. This step ensures all that delicious filling stays tucked inside while baking!

Step 8: Bake

Brush with a bit of egg wash (optional) and bake for 22–25 minutes until golden brown and flaky. Keep an eye on it—your kitchen will smell amazing!

Step 9: Glaze & Serve

Cool completely on a wire rack before mixing powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and water until smooth. Drizzle over cooled kringle and let set before slicing. Now it’s time to enjoy every last bite!

Pro Tips for Making Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Creating the perfect Wisconsin Apple Kringle is all about the details, and with a few pro tips, you’ll elevate your pastry game!

• Use cold butter: This ensures a flaky texture in your pastry. The cold butter creates steam while baking, resulting in those delightful layers.
• Don’t skip the chilling: Chilling the dough helps prevent it from becoming too warm and sticky, which can lead to a tough Kringle. A well-chilled dough is easier to roll and shape!
• Roll evenly: When rolling out your dough, aim for an even thickness. This ensures that your Kringle bakes uniformly, resulting in a beautifully golden crust.
• Experiment with fillings: While apple pie filling is traditional, feel free to get creative! Try other fruit fillings or even nut mixtures to personalize your Kringle.
• Let it cool before glazing: Allowing the Kringle to cool completely before adding the glaze prevents it from melting away into a puddle, keeping that lovely drizzle intact.

How to Serve Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Serving your Wisconsin Apple Kringle is just as important as making it! Whether it’s for a cozy breakfast gathering or a delightful dessert after dinner, presentation can make all the difference.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and enhances the sweetness without overpowering.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A dash of cinnamon on top brings out the warm spices of the apple filling and adds visual appeal.
• Fresh apple slices: Place thin slices of fresh apples around the Kringle for a pop of color and freshness that complements the flavors.

Side Dishes

• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs beautifully with this pastry, enhancing its comforting qualities.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer some yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a refreshing contrast that balances the sweetness of the Kringle.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad brings brightness to your meal, making it feel more complete while cutting through the richness of the pastry.
• Cheese platter: Serve with a selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese; their creaminess complements the apple filling perfectly.

Enjoy serving up this delightful Wisconsin Apple Kringle—it’s sure to be a hit at any table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Wisconsin Apple Kringle is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance and store it for later enjoyment, making it a great addition to your breakfast or dessert rotation.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover Kringle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the Kringle in the same container for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled Kringle tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To enjoy later, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the Kringle on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, add an additional 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delightful treat!

What is a Wisconsin Apple Kringle?

A Wisconsin Apple Kringle is a flaky Danish-style pastry filled with spiced apple pie filling and finished off with a sweet vanilla glaze, making it perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Can I make Wisconsin Apple Kringle without egg?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or use unsweetened applesauce as a binding agent.

How do I store Wisconsin Apple Kringle?

Store your leftover Wisconsin Apple Kringle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate it for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze Wisconsin Apple Kringle?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled Kringle tightly and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Wisconsin Apple Kringle as much as I do! This recipe combines warm spices and sweet apple filling wrapped in flaky pastry—a true comfort food. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or saved for later, it’s sure to bring joy to your table. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations!