Walking into a cozy kitchen, the scent of spiced apples wafts through the air, inviting memories of autumn gatherings and sweet indulgences. The recipe for Wisconsin Apple Kringle embodies this warmth, offering a delightful Danish-style pastry that’s as versatile as it is delicious. With its flaky layers and a touch of vanilla glaze, this homemade treat is perfect for breakfast or dessert, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. One of the best aspects of this Kringle is its adaptability—you can easily make it gluten-free or dairy-free without sacrificing flavor. Just imagine sharing this beautiful pastry with friends or family, creating lasting connections over warm slices of goodness. Are you ready to bring a taste of tradition into your home? Let’s get baking!

What makes Wisconsin Apple Kringle special?
Irresistible Aroma: The warm scent of spiced apples fills your kitchen and captivates everyone around.
Versatile Delight: Easily adaptable to gluten-free or dairy-free diets without losing taste integrity.
Showstopper Presentation: Beautifully shaped and glazed, it’s a stunning centerpiece for breakfast or dessert.
Simple Preparation: Using common ingredients and straightforward steps means anyone can impress their guests!
** Crowd-Pleasing:** This Kringle is bound to evoke smiles and spark joyful conversations among family and friends. Enjoy it alongside a roasting cup of coffee, or maybe even check out our suggestions for perfect pairings.
Wisconsin Apple Kringle Ingredients
• Whip up this delightful pastry with ease!
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture; substitute with a gluten-free blend if needed.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; brown sugar can deliver a richer flavor.
- Salt – Enhances flavor in the dough for a balanced taste.
- Cold Butter – Key to achieving that flaky texture; make sure it's cold for best results.
- Active Dry Yeast – Acts as a leavening agent; fresh yeast will yield a better rise.
- Warm Milk – Hydrates the yeast and dough; almond milk is a great dairy-free option.
- Large Egg – Binds the dough; you can use flaxseed or aquafaba as an egg replacement if desired.
For the Filling
- Apple Pie Filling – Serves as the main filling; using store-bought filling makes it even easier.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and flavor; nutmeg can be an aromatic alternative.
For the Glaze
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor significantly; almond extract can offer a delightful twist.
- Powdered Sugar – For the glaze, this ingredient creates a smooth and sweet topping to finish off your Wisconsin Apple Kringle beautifully.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Wisconsin Apple Kringle
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt until combined. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate bowl, warm the milk and sprinkle the active dry yeast on top, allowing it to bubble for about 5 minutes. Then, mix it with the dry ingredients along with one large egg. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Shape the Kringle
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spoon the apple pie filling down the center, leaving space around the edges. Fold the long sides of the dough over the filling to form an oval shape and pinch the edges to seal it. Place the shaped Wisconsin Apple Kringle on a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy handling.
Step 3: Bake the Kringle
Brush the top of the Kringle with an egg wash (a beaten egg) to achieve a golden, glossy finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky. Keep an eye on it towards the end; the aroma of spiced apples should fill your kitchen, indicating that your Wisconsin Apple Kringle is nearly ready!
Step 4: Add Glaze
Once the Kringle has cooled for about 10 minutes, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this sweet mixture generously over the warm pastry, allowing it to soak in and create a beautiful finish. The glaze adds the perfect touch to your delicious Wisconsin Apple Kringle, ready for slicing and serving.

Wisconsin Apple Kringle Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to customize this delicious Wisconsin Apple Kringle to suit your taste and dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to ensure everyone can enjoy this delightful pastry.
- Dairy-Free: Replace butter and milk with plant-based margarine and almond milk for a dairy-free version.
- Fruit Fillings: Experiment with different fruit fillings such as cherry or pear for a fun twist.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the apple filling for an extra layer of texture.
- Spice It Up: Enhance the filling with a pinch of ginger or allspice for a more complex flavor profile.
- Lemon Zest: Incorporate lemon zest into the glaze to brighten the flavor and add a refreshing tang.
- Extra Glaze: For sweetness, double the glaze recipe and drizzle excess on each slice when serving.
- Savory Twist: Swap the apple filling for a savory mixture of cheese and spinach for a unique breakfast option.
No matter the variation, pairing your Wisconsin Apple Kringle with a warm cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream will take your experience to the next level. Also, consider trying it with our delightful suggestions for perfect pairings for a truly memorable treat!
How to Store and Freeze Wisconsin Apple Kringle
Airtight Container: Make sure to store any leftover Wisconsin Apple Kringle in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature, maintaining its delightful texture.
Refrigeration: If you prefer to keep it longer, you can place the Kringle in the fridge. Just be sure to wrap it well; it can last up to a week if stored properly.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap the cooled Kringle tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. This double wrap prevents freezer burn and preserves the flavor for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the Kringle in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 minutes until warmed through and flaky again. Enjoy that fresh-baked taste!
Make Ahead Options
These Wisconsin Apple Kringle are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time without sacrificing deliciousness! You can prepare the dough and the filling up to 24 hours in advance; just keep them refrigerated until you're ready to bake. To maintain that delightful flaky texture, chill the dough overnight and keep the filling sealed in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy your warm pastry, simply shape and bake it according to the recipe, adding a drizzle of glaze once cooled. This way, you’ll have fresh, homemade Wisconsin Apple Kringle ready to impress your family, making hectic mornings or unexpected guests a breeze!
What to Serve with Wisconsin Apple Kringle
The comforting warmth of this flaky pastry invites you to create a delightful meal experience with delicious companions.
- Freshly Brewed Coffee: The rich, robust flavor of coffee pairs perfectly, enhancing the sweet apple filling and glaze.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the warm Kringle, making each bite decadent.
- Light Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brightens the palate and adds a burst of freshness to the sweet pastry.
- Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai harmonize beautifully with the cinnamon in the Kringle, creating a cozy, comforting pairing.
- Sweet Cinnamon Tea: A warm cup of cinnamon tea will echo the spiciness of the filling while providing a soothing element to the meal.
- Baked Apple Slices: Serve up some caramelized apple slices for a playful nod to the filling, enhancing the apple flavor in the Kringle.
- Maple Glaze Drizzle: A drizzle of maple syrup over the slice elevates the sweetness and brings a hint of autumn to your table.
- Caramel Sauce: Warm caramel sauce adds a rich, buttery dimension that perfectly complements the spices and sweetness of the Kringle.
- Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of crunchy nutty granola on top adds texture while balancing the pastry's sweetness and softness.
Expert Tips for the Best Wisconsin Apple Kringle
- Cold Ingredients Matter: Ensure your butter and milk are cold to achieve a flaky texture—warm ingredients can lead to a dense pastry.
- Do Not Overfill: Avoid the temptation to pile in the apple filling too high; overfilling can result in messy leaks during baking.
- Chill for Flavor: Chilling the dough for at least an hour (or overnight) enhances both flavor and texture, making your Wisconsin Apple Kringle extra delightful.
- Seal Edges Well: Take the time to pinch the dough edges securely to keep the filling intact during baking, creating that beautiful Kringle shape.
- Use Quality Yeast: Fresh, active dry yeast is essential for a great rise; always check expiration dates to prevent flat dough!

Wisconsin Apple Kringle Recipe FAQs
What type of apples are best for Wisconsin Apple Kringle?
For the best flavor, I recommend using tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape well during baking and provide the perfect contrast to the sweetness of the glaze. If you prefer a sweeter filling, feel free to mix different varieties or use a store-bought apple pie filling, which works excellently in this recipe.
How should I store leftover Wisconsin Apple Kringle?
Absolutely! To keep your Kringle fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its life, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator, where it can last up to a week without losing moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze Wisconsin Apple Kringle?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Kringle, ensure it is completely cool first. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps prevent freezer burn and retains the flavor. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.
How do I prevent my Wisconsin Apple Kringle from leaking filling?
To avoid any filling leaks during baking, it’s crucial not to overfill your Kringle. Leave enough dough around the edges, and be sure to pinch the edges well to seal them securely. If you notice the edges are not sticking, you might brush a little beaten egg along the edges before pinching to enhance the seal. Monitoring the baking time helps too; you want a nice golden color but also to ensure it’s cooked through to avoid any sogginess.
Can I adapt the Wisconsin Apple Kringle recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very! This versatile pastry allows for various adaptations. For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For dairy-free options, use almond milk and a plant-based butter. Additionally, if you want to eliminate eggs, consider using flaxseed or aquafaba as a replacement. Everyone deserves a slice of this delicious Kringle, tailored to their dietary needs!
Is it necessary to chill the dough for Wisconsin Apple Kringle?
Yes, chilling the dough is essential! Chilling it for at least an hour helps develop the flavors and gives you that flaky texture we all love. It’s even more effective if you can chill it overnight. The colder the dough, the better the layers will rise and separate during baking, creating that irresistible flaky pastry that’s simply delightful to eat.

Wisconsin Apple Kringle: The Best Cozy Pastry Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt until combined. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate bowl, warm the milk and sprinkle the active dry yeast on top, allowing it to bubble for about 5 minutes. Then, mix it with the dry ingredients along with one large egg. Cover the bowl and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spoon the apple pie filling down the center, leaving space around the edges. Fold the long sides of the dough over the filling to form an oval shape and pinch the edges to seal it. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush the top of the Kringle with an egg wash to achieve a golden finish. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and flaky. The aroma of spiced apples should fill your kitchen when it's nearly done!
- Once the Kringle has cooled for about 10 minutes, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the warm pastry, allowing it to soak in.



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