Wisconsin Apple Kringle

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion, the Wisconsin Apple Kringle is just what you need! This flaky, buttery pastry filled with spiced apple pie filling never fails to impress. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special, or for family gatherings where everyone will appreciate that delicious homemade touch. Each bite of this traditional pastry offers a delightful balance of crispness and gooey goodness that makes it truly irresistible.

What I love most about this Wisconsin Apple Kringle is how simple it is to make, yet it feels so special. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast or as a dessert, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you won’t need to be a baking expert to whip this up.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves warm apple pie flavors wrapped in flaky pastry—it’s a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve. Perfect for brunch gatherings!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spiced apples and vanilla glaze creates a comforting taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a sweet dessert any time of year!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Together, they create a magical blend that makes the Wisconsin Apple Kringle so 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

Feel free to get creative with your Wisconsin Apple Kringle! Here are some tasty variations you can try:

• Change up the filling: Use peach or cherry pie filling instead of apple for a different fruit flavor.
• Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling before folding the dough for added crunch.
• Spice it up: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg into the apple filling for an extra layer of warmth.
• Make it seasonal: Swap in pumpkin puree with spices during fall for a festive twist!

How to Make Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm milk, water, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. This step is crucial because activating the yeast helps your dough rise beautifully and ensures a light texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This technique creates those lovely flaky layers we adore in pastries!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the yeast mixture and egg to your flour mixture. Stir just until the dough comes together—avoid overmixing! This keeps your Kringle tender.

Step 4: Chill Out

Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps firm up the butter which is key for achieving that perfect flaky crust.

Step 5: Preheat and Roll Out

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out your chilled dough into a large rectangle. The right thickness is essential here; too thick won’t cook through properly.

Step 6: Add Your Filling

Spread apple pie filling down the center of your rolled-out dough and sprinkle with ground cardamom. The cardamom adds an aromatic hint that complements the apples wonderfully.

Step 7: Shape Your Kringle

Fold the dough over the filling lengthwise and seal the edges well. Shape it into an oval or horseshoe form on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This shape not only looks beautiful but also allows even baking.

Step 8: Bake It Up

Brush with an optional egg wash if desired and bake for 22-25 minutes until golden brown and flaky. Cooling completely on a wire rack will help maintain its crispiness.

Step 9: Drizzle with Glaze

Mix powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and water until smooth. Drizzle over your cooled Kringle and let set before slicing. This sweet finish makes every bite even more delightful!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this comforting Wisconsin Apple Kringle! Can’t wait for you to try it!

Pro Tips for Making Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Creating the perfect Wisconsin Apple Kringle is all about the details, and these tips will help you achieve that flaky, buttery goodness!

• Use cold butter: Keeping your butter cold ensures it remains solid while mixing, which creates those delightful flaky layers in your pastry.

• Don’t skip the chilling time: Chilling the dough not only makes it easier to work with but also helps in developing a tender crust. Patience pays off here!

• Roll evenly: Aim for a consistent thickness when rolling out the dough; this ensures even baking and a uniform texture throughout the Kringle.

• Experiment with fillings: While apple pie filling is classic, feel free to explore other fillings like cherry or almond paste for a delicious twist on this traditional treat.

• Let it cool before glazing: Allowing the Kringle to cool completely prevents the glaze from melting into the pastry, giving you that beautiful drizzle effect.

How to Serve Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Wisconsin Apple Kringle is not just about taste; it’s also about presentation! Here are some delightful ways to serve this scrumptious pastry that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and makes your Kringle look picture-perfect.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and a flavor boost that complements the apples beautifully.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light sprinkle of cinnamon over the glaze enhances the warm spiced aroma of your Kringle and adds an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pastry, making for a balanced plate.
• Greek yogurt: Serve with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt for a creamy, tangy accompaniment that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the Kringle.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances the cozy experience, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for breakfast or dessert.
• Vanilla ice cream: For those who enjoy indulgence, serving warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates an irresistible dessert combination.

Enjoy your delightful Wisconsin Apple Kringle with these serving suggestions—it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Wisconsin Apple Kringle is not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making it an excellent option for busy mornings or special occasions. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious kringle.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Kringle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate it for up to a week.
• Make sure to wrap the Kringle tightly in plastic wrap or foil before storing.

Freezing

• To freeze the Kringle, allow it to cool completely after baking.
• Wrap the cooled pastry tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the Kringle on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and flaky again.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions that may help you enjoy your Wisconsin Apple Kringle even more!

Can I make Wisconsin Apple Kringle without apple pie filling?

Absolutely! You can make your own apple filling by sautéing diced apples with cinnamon, sugar, and a bit of lemon juice. This will give you a fresh twist on the classic flavor.

How do I know when my Wisconsin Apple Kringle is done baking?

Your kringle is perfectly baked when it’s golden brown on top and has a flaky texture. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Can I use other fruits instead of apples in my kringle?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like pears or berries. Just ensure that your fruit filling isn’t too watery to maintain the pastry’s flakiness.

What makes Wisconsin Apple Kringle different from other pastries?

Wisconsin Apple Kringle is unique due to its flaky layers and rich butteriness combined with spiced apple filling, creating a delightful balance of flavors typical of traditional Scandinavian pastries.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Wisconsin Apple Kringle recipe brings warmth and joy into your kitchen! Its delightful blend of buttery pastry and sweet apple filling makes it a truly special treat for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as breakfast or dessert, I’m sure you’ll love making—and sharing—it just as much as I do. Happy baking!