Wisconsin Apple Kringle

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings warmth to your kitchen, the Wisconsin Apple Kringle is the answer! This cherished recipe has been passed down through generations, and it’s easy to see why. With its flaky, buttery pastry and warm spiced apple filling, this kringle is perfect for cozy breakfasts or as a sweet dessert to share with family and friends. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

There’s something truly special about the aroma of freshly baked pastries wafting through the house. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a festive holiday dinner, this Wisconsin Apple Kringle will surely bring smiles all around!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is straightforward and fun!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this delicious pastry filled with sweet apples.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough in advance and bake fresh kringles whenever you want.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for breakfast, brunches, or dessert—this kringle fits right in anywhere!
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of warm spices and sweet apples creates a comforting taste everyone loves.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When making this Wisconsin Apple Kringle, you’ll use simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Each one plays an important role in creating that tender pastry crust and delicious filling. Here’s what you need:

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

This Wisconsin Apple Kringle recipe is versatile, allowing you to get creative in the kitchen! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch!
• Change up the filling: Swap out apple pie filling for other fruit fillings like cherry or peach.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor.
• Make it chocolatey: Add chocolate chips along with the apple filling for a decadent twist.

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, giving your dough that lovely rise!

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. This technique creates those flaky layers we love in pastries!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the yeast mixture and egg. Stir just until dough comes together—do not overmix. Overmixing can lead to tough dough instead of tender pastry.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Form into a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps relax gluten strands so your kringle will be light and flaky when baked.

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. Rolling it out evenly ensures that it bakes uniformly.

Step 6: Add Filling

Spread apple pie filling down the center and sprinkle with cardamom. The cardamom adds a lovely aromatic flavor that enhances the sweetness of apples.

Step 7: Fold and Shape

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. Sealing well keeps all that delicious filling inside!

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Brush with a bit of egg wash (optional) and bake for 22–25 minutes until golden brown and flaky. Baking brings out those beautiful layers!

Step 9: Drizzle with Glaze

Cool completely on a wire rack before mixing powdered sugar, vanilla, and water until smooth. Drizzle over cooled kringle and let set before slicing for that final touch of sweetness.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Wisconsin Apple Kringle! It’s sure to become one of your favorite recipes too!

Pro Tips for Making Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Creating a delicious Wisconsin Apple Kringle is easier than you think, and with just a few handy tips, you’ll be well on your way to impressing family and friends!

• Use cold butter: Cold butter is key to achieving that flaky texture. It creates steam as it melts during baking, resulting in layers that are both tender and crispy.

• Don’t skip the chilling time: Allowing the dough to chill for at least an hour helps relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out and ensuring a tender pastry.

• Experiment with fillings: While apple pie filling is traditional, feel free to mix things up! Try adding berries or nuts for added flavor and texture.

• Keep an eye on baking time: Ovens can vary greatly. Start checking your Kringle a few minutes before the recommended time to avoid over-baking.

• Make ahead for convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and keep it in the refrigerator overnight. Just roll it out and fill it when you’re ready to bake!

How to Serve Wisconsin Apple Kringle

This delightful pastry is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes! Here are some creative ways to present your Wisconsin Apple Kringle that will make it stand out at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch without overwhelming the flavors.
• Cinnamon Sprinkle: A sprinkle of cinnamon on top of the glaze enhances the warm spices within the filling and adds visual appeal.
• Fresh Apple Slices: Arrange thin slices of fresh apple around the Kringle for a pop of color and freshness that complements its flavors.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet pastry, making it a perfect breakfast companion.
• Greek Yogurt with Honey: The creaminess of Greek yogurt drizzled with honey offers a rich yet tangy side that balances out the sweetness of the Kringle.
• Coffee or Tea: Brewed coffee or herbal tea pairs beautifully with this pastry, enhancing its comforting qualities while providing a warm beverage option.
• Scrambled Eggs: For a more substantial breakfast, serving fluffy scrambled eggs alongside your Kringle adds protein and makes for a well-rounded meal.

Enjoy your homemade Wisconsin Apple Kringle with these delightful suggestions, whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, or dessert!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Wisconsin Apple Kringle is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delightful pastry fresh or saved for later. With simple storage options, you can savor its flaky goodness at your convenience.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the kringle to cool completely.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
• Keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• After baking and cooling, wrap the kringle securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, slice before freezing to enjoy individual pieces later!

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the kringle on a baking sheet and cover lightly with foil.
• Warm in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual slices for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Wisconsin Apple Kringle.

What can I use instead of egg wash on my Wisconsin Apple Kringle?

If you’d like an egg-free alternative, brush the dough with milk or a plant-based milk before baking. This will give your kringle a nice golden color without using eggs.

Can I make Wisconsin Apple Kringle ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just roll out and fill when you’re ready to bake.

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

Your kringle is perfectly baked when it’s golden brown and flaky on top. A toothpick inserted into the filling should come out clean, indicating that it’s cooked through.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Wisconsin Apple Kringle! Its warm apple filling and buttery layers are sure to delight everyone at your table. Whether for breakfast or dessert, it’s a special treat that brings comfort and happiness. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share with loved ones!