Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Wisconsin Apple Kringle is a delightful treat that brings the warmth of home baking to any occasion. This flaky pastry, filled with spiced apple pie goodness and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, is perfect for breakfast or dessert. Whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy weekend brunch, this kringle’s buttery layers and gooey center will impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and clear instructions, this recipe is great for bakers of all skill levels.
• Flavorful Filling: The warm spiced apple filling paired with cardamom adds a cozy touch that’s irresistible.
• Versatile Treat: Serve it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a sweet ending to your dinner—this kringle suits any occasion.
• Impressive Presentation: Its beautiful shape and glossy glaze make it a showstopper on any table.
• Comforting Aroma: Baking this Wisconsin Apple Kringle fills your kitchen with delightful scents that invite everyone to gather around.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes the baking process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Wisconsin Apple Kringle.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve the perfect dough thickness for even baking and flaky layers.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your kringle, ensuring it holds its shape.

Ingredients

A flakey, buttery Danish-style pastry filled with warm spiced apple pie filling and drizzled with vanilla glaze. This traditional Wisconsin Kringle is layered, tender, and sweet—with a crisp golden crust and a gooey apple center, perfect for breakfast or dessert all year round.

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)

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.

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.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the yeast mixture and egg. Stir just until the dough comes together—do not overmix.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Form into a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out chilled dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface.

Step 6: Add Filling

Spread apple pie filling down the center of the dough and sprinkle with cardamom.

Step 7: Shape the 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.

Step 8: Bake

Brush with a bit of egg wash (optional) and bake for 22–25 minutes until golden brown and flaky. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 9: Prepare Glaze

Mix powdered sugar, vanilla, and water until smooth. Drizzle over cooled kringle and let set before slicing.

How to Serve Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Wisconsin Apple Kringle is a delightful pastry that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

Pair with Coffee

• A warm cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the Kringle perfectly. Consider brewing a rich dark roast for a bold flavor contrast.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries adds a refreshing balance to the richness of the pastry. Try serving with a side of strawberries or raspberries.

Enjoy with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream on top creates a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the flaky layers of the Kringle. For extra flavor, consider adding a hint of vanilla or cinnamon to the cream.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• For a dessert twist, serve warm slices of Kringle with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The contrasting temperatures will make each bite even more enjoyable.

Drizzle Extra Glaze

• If you love sweetness, drizzle some extra vanilla glaze over your slice before serving. This enhances the flavors and makes for an eye-catching presentation.

How to Perfect Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Achieving the perfect Wisconsin Apple Kringle can be simple if you keep these tips in mind.

• Use cold ingredients: Ensure your butter and milk are cold for a flaky crust. This helps create those desirable layers in the pastry.
• Don’t overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough dough instead of tender layers.
• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough is crucial for achieving flakiness. It allows the butter to firm up again after mixing.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your Kringle while it bakes. Every oven is different, so check for that golden brown color around 22 minutes.
• Let it cool completely: Allowing your Kringle to cool before glazing ensures that the glaze adheres properly and doesn’t run off.

Best Side Dishes for Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Pairing side dishes with your Wisconsin Apple Kringle can create an exceptional meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with honey and granola for a healthy and satisfying addition.
2. Cinnamon Sugar Toast: Simple yet delicious, toast bread sprinkled with cinnamon sugar makes for a cozy complement.
3. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the rich flavors of the Kringle.
4. Cheese Platter: Offer mild cheeses like brie or gouda alongside crackers; they provide savory notes against sweet pastries.
5. Nutty Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars packed with nuts and dried fruits offer crunch and chewiness next to soft pastry.
6. Herbal Tea Selection: Brew herbal teas like chamomile or mint as soothing drinks that pair well with sweet treats.
7. Savory Quiche: A slice of vegetable quiche introduces savory flavors that balance nicely with sweet desserts like Kringle.
8. Baked Apples: Warm baked apples spiced with cinnamon create a comforting side dish that echoes the apple filling in your pastry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Wisconsin Apple Kringle, it’s easy to encounter a few pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes and tips on how to avoid them.

• Overworking the dough – Mixing the dough too much can result in a tough pastry. To prevent this, stir until just combined and stop as soon as a ball forms.
• Using warm ingredients – Cold butter is essential for flaky layers. Ensure your butter is well-chilled before cutting it into the flour mixture.
• Not chilling the dough – Skipping the refrigeration step can lead to a less flaky texture. Allow the dough to chill for at least an hour before rolling it out.
• Ignoring oven temperatures – A preheated oven is crucial for baking. Be sure to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before placing your Kringle inside.
• Skipping the glaze – The vanilla glaze adds sweetness and appeal. Don’t skip this step; it’s what makes your Wisconsin Apple Kringle irresistible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Wisconsin Apple Kringle in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Wisconsin Apple Kringle

• Wrap pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for the best quality.

Reheating Wisconsin Apple Kringle

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to common questions about making Wisconsin Apple Kringle.

Can I use other fruit filling for my Wisconsin Apple Kringle?

Yes, you can substitute apple pie filling with other fruit fillings like cherry or blueberry for a different flavor profile.

How do I ensure my Wisconsin Apple Kringle has flaky layers?

Make sure to use cold ingredients and avoid overmixing the dough, allowing it to remain light and airy.

Can I prepare Wisconsin Apple Kringle ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

What pairs well with Wisconsin Apple Kringle?

This pastry goes great with coffee or tea, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Final Thoughts

Wisconsin Apple Kringle is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its flaky texture and sweet apple filling make it ideal for breakfast or dessert. Feel free to customize it with different fillings or toppings based on your preference!