The moment I rolled out the dough, my kitchen was filled with an inviting aroma that danced around me like a cozy hug. The Wisconsin Apple Kringle is a delightful nod to Scandinavian baking, combining tender, flaky layers with a warm apple filling that’s just bursting with spice. Not only is this Danish-style pastry perfect for lazy weekend breakfasts, but it also doubles as a show-stopping dessert at gatherings. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to customize—just swap in your favorite fruits or spices! Imagine serving this golden, glazed treat to friends and family, their eyes lighting up with joy. Ready to impress everyone with its comforting elegance? Let’s dive into making this delectable kringle together! Why is Wisconsin Apple Kringle a Must-Try? Delightful flavors: The combination of warm apples with cinnamon and nutmeg creates an irresistible filling that will have your taste buds dancing. Flaky texture: This pastry boasts layers so light and airy, you’ll feel like you’re indulging in a gourmet café treat. Versatile treat: Whether enjoyed for breakfast or as a dessert, this kringle adapts beautifully to any occasion. Customizable options: Feel free to experiment with different fruits or even try out flavored extracts for the glaze—your creativity is the limit! Effortless preparation: With easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll create a stunning dish that impresses without stressing you out. For more delicious recipes, consider trying a Hawaiian Pineapple Carrot or Southern Pineapple Pecan cake to accompany your kringle! Wisconsin Apple Kringle Ingredients For the Dough • Flour – Provides structure and body to the kringle. For gluten-free versions, use a gluten-free blend. • Cold Butter – Essential for creating flaky layers. Do not substitute with margarine for best results. • Sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough and glaze. Coconut sugar can be used for a healthier alternative. • Yeast – Leavens and contributes to the texture. Instant yeast works well for quicker preparation. • Milk – Hydrates the dough; can be substituted with almond milk for a dairy-free option. For the Filling • Apples – Main filling component providing flavor and texture. Any firm apple variety like Granny Smith works best. • Spices (Cinnamon/Nutmeg) – Enhance the flavor of the filling. Adjust according to taste preferences. For the Glaze • Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic flavor to the glaze and filling. Almond extract can be an interesting alternative. Dive into this delightful Wisconsin Apple Kringle, where every bite captures the essence of a cozy kitchen and invites you to a sweet experience! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Wisconsin Apple Kringle Step 1: Prepare the Dough In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of cold, cubed butter, ¼ cup of sugar, 1 packet of instant yeast, and ½ cup of milk. Mix until a soft dough forms, avoiding overmixing. Once combined, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1 hour, allowing it to chill and firm up for easier handling later. Step 2: Make the Filling While the dough chills, peel and thinly slice 3 medium apples, such as Granny Smith. In a separate bowl, mix the apple slices with ¼ cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg. Toss until the apples are well coated with the sweet spices; set aside. This delicious filling will infuse the Wisconsin Apple Kringle with warmth and flavor. Step 3: Shape the Kringle After chilling, flour a clean surface and roll out the dough into a large oval shape, about ¼ inch thick. Transfer the dough carefully onto a lined baking sheet. Spoon the prepared apple filling down the center of the dough, leaving a generous border on each side. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch to seal, creating an oval or horseshoe shape. Step 4: Bake the Kringle Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Before baking, whisk one egg and brush the mixture over the top of the kringle for a golden finish. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry turns a lovely golden brown and the edges are crispy. Your kitchen will soon fill with delightful aromas! Step 5: Add Glaze Once baked, remove the kringle from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract with enough water to create a pourable glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the warm Wisconsin Apple Kringle, ensuring it covers the top beautifully, ready to impress your family and friends. Expert Tips for Wisconsin Apple Kringle Cold Ingredients Matter: Use cold butter and milk to ensure the perfect flaky texture. Warm ingredients will lead to a denser pastry rather than a light, airy kringle. Perfect Apple Selection: Choose firm apples like Granny Smith for the filling. Avoid overly soft varieties that could turn mushy during baking. Don’t Overfill: When adding the apple filling, leave enough space on the sides to fold and seal the dough. Overfilling can cause filling to leak out during baking. Egg Wash for Shine: Brush the dough with an egg wash before baking for a golden, shiny crust that looks as great as it tastes. Let It Cool: Allow the kringle to cool slightly before adding the glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting and ensures a beautiful finish to your Wisconsin Apple Kringle. How to Store and Freeze Wisconsin Apple Kringle Room Temperature: Keep the kringle at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days for optimal freshness without compromising the flaky texture. Fridge: If you prefer to extend its lifespan, store the kringle in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes before serving to restore its delightful warmth. Freezer: To freeze, wrap the completely cooled Wisconsin Apple Kringle tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes for a freshly-baked taste. Make Ahead Options These Wisconsin Apple Kringle are a fantastic option for meal prep, making your busy mornings much easier! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate the rolled-out dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its flakiness, and store the apple filling in an airtight container. When ready to bake, place the filling in the center of the cold dough, fold and seal it, and then bake directly from the fridge for 25-30 minutes. This way, your kringle will still turn out beautifully golden and delicious, perfect for impressing guests with minimal last-minute effort! What to Serve with Wisconsin Apple Kringle? The warm, comforting taste of Wisconsin Apple Kringle makes it ideal for pairing with delightful sides that elevate any meal occasion. Warm Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream melted slightly on warm kringle creates a heavenly contrast of temperatures. It’s a classic combination that never disappoints. Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a luscious touch that enhances the kringle’s sweet glaze, creating a dreamy dessert experience. Coffee or Espresso: The rich, bold flavor of freshly brewed coffee pairs perfectly, balancing the sweetness of the kringle while offering that warm hug in a mug. It invites whenever you’re ready to indulge. Cinnamon Sugar Pecans: These crunchy, spiced nuts provide a delightful textural contrast, and their flavor complements the apple filling beautifully for that extra crunch. Chai Tea: The warming spices in chai tea create a cozy pairing, making every bite of kringle feel even more comforting and inviting. Fresh Fruit Salad: A bowl of tart berries and juicy oranges brightens the plate, adding a refreshing element that cuts through the richness of the kringle. Maple Glazed Bacon: For a savory twist, serve crispy bacon with a drizzle of maple sauce alongside the kringle; it creates an unexpected yet delightful combination of sweet and salty. Spiced Apple Cider: Enjoy a mug of hot apple cider with a hint of cinnamon for a seasonal touch that beautifully ties in the flavors of the kringle. Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzling of chocolate over the kringle adds an indulgent touch for chocolate lovers seeking that extra layer of flavor and richness. Wisconsin Apple Kringle Variations Feel free to unleash your creativity with this scrumptious kringle—each bite can be a whole new experience! Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy. Dairy-Free: Replace milk with almond milk or oat milk to make this scrumptious pastry fit your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. The creamy texture holds up well, ensuring your kringle remains delightful. Fruit Swap: Try using pears or mixed berries instead of apples for a unique twist. This will bring vibrant colors and flavors, turning your kringle into an alluring centerpiece! Flavor Boost: Experiment with flavored extracts in the glaze, such as almond or maple, to elevate the sweet topping. It transforms the ordinary into something extraordinary, adding a lovely surprise to each bite. Cinnamon Roll Twist: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the dough for an extra dose of warmth and coziness. Imagine sinking your teeth into layers that embrace the classic comfort of a cinnamon roll! Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the filling for a delightful crunch that complements the soft apple texture. The added textures would make this kringle even more memorable. Double the Recipe: Make two kringles for larger gatherings or to enjoy over several days. This way, you can share the joy or make delicious memories last longer! For more delightful ideas, don’t forget to check out the Hawaiian Pineapple Carrot or Southern Pineapple Pecan cakes that perfectly accompany your apple kringle! Wisconsin Apple Kringle Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right apples for the filling? Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your Wisconsin Apple Kringle, I recommend using firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Avoid softer varieties such as Macintosh, as they can become mushy during baking. Look for apples that feel heavy for their size and have a vibrant skin, free from dark spots or blemishes. How should I store my Wisconsin Apple Kringle? You can store the kringle at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, placing it in the refrigerator will extend its life to about 5 days. Just remember to reheat it in the oven at 350°F for around 10 minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste! Can I freeze Wisconsin Apple Kringle? Absolutely! To freeze your kringle, allow it to cool completely after baking. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warm. What should I do if my dough is too sticky? Very important! If you find your dough is too sticky, don’t fret. Lightly flour your work surface and hands while rolling it out. You can also sprinkle a bit more flour into the dough as you mix until it reaches a soft but not overly sticky consistency. Just be cautious not to add too much flour, or you may lose that tender flakiness! Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions? Certainly! If you’re looking to make a gluten-free version of Wisconsin Apple Kringle, I recommend using a good gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-sensitive individuals, substituting almond milk for regular milk works wonderfully as well. Just be aware of the types of sweeteners you use, ensuring they are safe for any allergies. How can I prevent the filling from leaking out during baking? To avoid messy leaks, it’s crucial not to overfill your Wisconsin Apple Kringle. Leave a good margin around the edges when placing the apple filling. After folding the dough over, make sure to pinch and seal it well. A good egg wash on top also helps to form a barrier, keeping those delicious apples tucked in neatly! Flaky Wisconsin Apple Kringle: A Cozy Pastry Delight Experience the delightful Wisconsin Apple Kringle, a cozy pastry bursting with spiced apple goodness. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 1 hour hrCook Time 30 minutes minsChilling Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: ScandinavianCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough2 ½ cups all-purpose flour Can use gluten-free blend.½ cup cold butter Cubed; do not substitute margarine.¼ cup sugar Coconut sugar can be used.1 packet instant yeast Leavens the dough.½ cup milk Almond milk can be used for dairy-free.For the Filling3 medium apples Granny Smith preferred.¼ cup sugar Used to coat apples.1 teaspoon cinnamon¼ teaspoon nutmeg Adjust according to taste.For the Glaze1 cup powdered sugar1 teaspoon vanilla extract Almond extract can be used. Equipment Mixing bowlbaking sheetRolling PinPlastic wrapoven Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Wisconsin Apple KringleIn a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cold butter, sugar, yeast, and milk. Mix until a soft dough forms, then wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.Peel and thinly slice the apples. Mix with sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.Roll out the dough into an oval shape. Spoon the apple filling down the center, fold the edges and pinch to seal.Preheat oven to 375°F. Brush the top with egg wash. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.Cool for 10 minutes. Mix powdered sugar and vanilla with water to create a glaze and drizzle over the kringle. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 4gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 350IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesUse cold ingredients for a flaky texture. Choose firm apples for the filling. Brush with egg wash for shine. Allow cooling before glazing. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!