Wisconsin Apple Kringle

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that warms the heart and fills the kitchen with delightful aromas, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Wisconsin Apple Kringle. This flaky, buttery pastry is a beloved tradition in Wisconsin, and it’s not hard to see why! With its tender layers and gooey apple filling, it shines as both a scrumptious breakfast item and a comforting dessert. Whether you’re gathering with family on a chilly weekend or whipping up something special for a weekday breakfast, this Kringle will surely become a favorite.

What makes this Wisconsin Apple Kringle truly special is how approachable it is. You don’t need to be a baking expert to achieve that gorgeous golden crust and delightful flavor. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round—perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create an impressive pastry that looks as good as it tastes.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet apple filling, making it an excellent choice for family brunches.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance, saving time on busy mornings or when hosting guests.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of spiced apples and buttery pastry creates a mouthwatering experience that you won’t forget.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful Wisconsin Apple Kringle, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Gather these essentials from your pantry and local store, and let’s get baking!

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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different flavors or fillings that suit your taste.

• Change up the fruit: Swap out the apple pie filling for other fruits like cherry or peach for a unique twist.
• Add nuts: Sprinkle in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor in your filling.
• Infuse with spices: Experiment by adding cinnamon or nutmeg alongside cardamom for extra warmth.
• Try different glazes: Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty flavor in your 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 becomes foamy. This step is crucial because activating the yeast ensures your dough rises beautifully.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This creates those flaky layers we all love! Then add your yeast mixture along with the egg and stir until just combined—don’t overmix; we want tender dough.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Form your dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps solidify the butter, resulting in that perfectly flaky texture once baked.

Step 4: Roll Out Your Dough

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out your chilled dough into a large rectangle. Making sure to keep it even gives you consistent baking results!

Step 5: Fill with Apples

Spread the apple pie filling down the center of your rolled-out dough and sprinkle with ground cardamom. The cardamom adds beautiful warmth to complement the apples—trust me; this step is essential!

Step 6: Shape Your Kringle

Fold the dough over the filling lengthwise, sealing those edges tightly so nothing escapes during baking. Shape it into an oval or horseshoe form before transferring it to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 7: Bake It Up!

Brush with an egg wash if desired (this gives it that lovely golden color) and bake for about 22–25 minutes until golden brown and flaky. Once done, let it cool completely on a wire rack before glazing.

Step 8: Drizzle That Glaze

Mix powdered sugar with vanilla extract and water until smooth. Drizzle over your cooled Kringle and let it set before slicing into this delectable treat!

Enjoy every bite of your homemade Wisconsin Apple Kringle—it’s sure to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Creating the perfect Wisconsin Apple Kringle can be a delightful adventure, so here are some tips to ensure your baking experience is smooth and successful!

• Use cold butter: Starting with cold, cubed butter helps achieve that flaky texture. It creates steam during baking, which results in those lovely layers that are characteristic of a great pastry.

• Don’t rush the chilling process: Chilling the dough is essential for developing flavor and keeping the butter solid, which contributes to that tender, flaky crust. Make sure to give it at least an hour in the refrigerator.

• Roll evenly: When rolling out your dough, aim for an even thickness. This ensures uniform baking and prevents any parts from becoming too crispy or undercooked.

• Experiment with fillings: While apple pie filling is traditional, don’t hesitate to get creative! Try adding walnuts or raisins for added texture, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth.

• Let it cool before glazing: Allowing your Kringle to cool completely before adding the glaze will help it set beautifully on top rather than melting into the pastry. You want that lovely drizzle to stand out!

How to Serve Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Serving up your Wisconsin Apple Kringle is all about presentation and pairing it with delightful accompaniments. Here are some ideas to make your warm pastry shine on any table!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds sweetness and enhances the visual appeal without overwhelming the flavors.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: Adding a dash of cinnamon not only enhances the aroma but also complements the apple filling beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the Kringle. Think apples, berries, and citrus for a vibrant contrast.
• Greek yogurt with honey: Creamy Greek yogurt drizzled with honey offers a tangy counterpoint to the sweet pastry, making for a delightful combination.
• Herbal tea or coffee: Pairing your Kringle with a warm cup of herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee elevates your breakfast experience. The warmth of these beverages complements the cozy flavors of the pastry perfectly.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, serving whipped coconut cream alongside adds a luscious touch that complements the spiced apple filling exquisitely.

Enjoy your baking adventure with this Wisconsin Apple Kringle recipe—it’s sure to be a hit no matter when you choose to serve it!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Wisconsin Apple Kringle is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment, making it a great addition to your breakfast or dessert rotation.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Kringle to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, place in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Freezing

• Once cooled, slice the Kringle into individual portions.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Unwrap the slices and place them on a baking sheet.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave a slice for about 30 seconds, but this may soften the crust.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Wisconsin Apple Kringle that might help you!

Can I use store-bought apple pie filling for Wisconsin Apple Kringle?

Absolutely! Store-bought apple pie filling works perfectly. Just make sure it’s free from any animal-derived ingredients if you’re avoiding them.

How can I make Wisconsin Apple Kringle vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg or applesauce and use plant-based butter instead of regular butter. You’ll still enjoy that delightful flaky texture!

What should I serve with Wisconsin Apple Kringle?

This delicious pastry pairs beautifully with coffee or tea. You can also serve it alongside fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast or snack!

Can I add nuts to my Wisconsin Apple Kringle?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add a wonderful crunch and flavor. Just sprinkle them over the apple filling before folding the dough.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Wisconsin Apple Kringle as much as I do! It’s truly a special recipe that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether you’re enjoying it with family at breakfast or serving it as a sweet treat after dinner, this pastry is sure to impress. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with loved ones!