Wisconsin Apple Kringle

If you’re looking for a cozy and delightful treat, let me introduce you to the charming Wisconsin Apple Kringle. This pastry is one of my all-time favorites, bringing together the warm flavors of spiced apples and the buttery goodness of a flaky crust. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or serving it at a family gathering, this kringle will surely make everyone smile. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in dessert form!

What I love most about this Wisconsin Apple Kringle is how versatile it is. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something special or for festive occasions where you want to impress your guests, this pastry truly shines all year round.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and ingredients, you’ll find that making this kringle is a breeze, even if you’re new to baking!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet apple filling and flaky crust. It’s perfect for sharing!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake it fresh when you’re ready. This makes it an excellent option for brunches or gatherings.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spiced apples and buttery pastry creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist!
• Beautiful Presentation: The elegant shape of the kringle makes it a stunning centerpiece on any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Wisconsin Apple Kringle. Each component plays an important role in giving us that tender, flaky pastry we crave.

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different flavors or fillings based on your preferences.

• Change Up the Fruit: Swap out apple pie filling for other fruits like cherry or peach. Just make sure they’re appropriately spiced!
• Add Nutty Goodness: Sprinkle some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the filling for added crunch.
• Experiment with Spices: Replace cardamom with cinnamon or nutmeg to suit your taste.
• Try Different Glazes: Instead of vanilla, add almond extract for a different twist on the glaze.

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 it’s foamy. This step is crucial because activating the yeast helps our pastry rise 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 creates those lovely flaky layers we all adore in pastries.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the yeast mixture and egg to your flour blend. Stir just until the dough comes together—be careful not to overmix! Overworking can lead to tough dough instead of tender pastry.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

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

Step 5: Preheat & Roll Out

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out your chilled dough into a large rectangle. This step prepares us for that delicious apple filling!

Step 6: Add Filling & Spice

Spread apple pie filling down the center of the dough rectangle and sprinkle with cardamom. The spices will enhance the flavor of our apples beautifully.

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 before transferring it to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Brush with a bit of egg wash if desired (this gives it that lovely golden color) and bake for 22–25 minutes until golden brown and flaky. Let it cool completely on a wire rack; patience is key!

Step 9: Drizzle & Serve

Mix powdered sugar with vanilla extract and water until smooth for your glaze. Drizzle over cooled Kringle and let set before slicing into those delectable pieces!

Now you have made an irresistible Wisconsin Apple Kringle! Enjoy every bite while sharing stories with loved ones around your table.

Pro Tips for Making Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Making Wisconsin Apple Kringle can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve perfect results every time!

• Use cold butter: Cold butter is key to a flaky pastry. It creates steam during baking, which helps the layers rise and become beautifully airy.

• Don’t skip the chilling step: Chilling the dough allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out and shape. Plus, it enhances the flakiness of your Kringle.

• Be generous with filling: To get that ooey-gooey center, don’t be shy when adding the apple pie filling. Just make sure to leave enough space at the edges to seal the dough properly!

• Monitor baking closely: Ovens can vary in temperature; keep an eye on your Kringle as it bakes. You want it golden brown but not overdone.

• Let it cool completely before glazing: Glazing a warm pastry can lead to a runny mess. Allow your Kringle to cool so that the glaze sets perfectly on top.

How to Serve Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Wisconsin Apple Kringle is not just delicious; it’s also visually appealing. Presenting this delightful pastry with a few simple touches can elevate its charm at any breakfast or dessert table.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overwhelming the flavor.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: For an extra touch of warmth, sprinkle some ground cinnamon over the glaze. It enhances both aroma and taste.
• Fresh apple slices: Add thinly sliced fresh apples around the serving platter for a pop of color and freshness that complements the filling.

Side Dishes

• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs beautifully with this sweet treat, making for a cozy breakfast experience.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a refreshing contrast that balances out the richness of the Kringle.
• Scrambled eggs: Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs offer a savory component that complements the sweetness of the pastry beautifully.
• Fruit salad: A vibrant fruit salad adds freshness and brightness to your meal, enhancing both flavor and color on your plate.

Enjoy your Wisconsin Apple Kringle as part of a delightful breakfast spread or as a comforting dessert!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Wisconsin Apple Kringle is not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring you have a delicious pastry ready to enjoy whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Kringle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the Kringle, where it will last up to 5 days.
• To maintain freshness, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap before storing.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled Kringle tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for added protection.
• Freeze for up to 2 months—just be sure to label it with the date!
• For best results, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the Kringle on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• If you prefer microwaving, heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

What is Wisconsin Apple Kringle?

Wisconsin Apple Kringle is a flaky, buttery pastry filled with spiced apple pie filling and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze. It’s a beloved treat that embodies the warmth of home baking.

Can I use homemade apple pie filling in my Wisconsin Apple Kringle?

Absolutely! Homemade apple pie filling can add a personal touch to your Wisconsin Apple Kringle. Just ensure it’s well-cooked and spiced to enhance the flavor of your pastry.

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

Your Wisconsin Apple Kringle is perfectly baked when it’s golden brown on top and has a flaky texture. A toothpick inserted into the dough should come out clean without any wet batter.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Wisconsin Apple Kringle as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with warmth and comfort. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast or dessert, each bite is sure to bring a smile. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family—they will love it too!