A whiff of cinnamon and baked apples instantly transports me to my childhood kitchen, where the sweet aroma of homemade pastries filled the air. Today, I’m excited to share my take on the beloved Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze—an enchanting Danish pastry that’s stunningly simple to make. This recipe offers not only a delightful way to impress family and friends but also a quick, comforting dessert that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee or evening tea. The flaky pastry envelops a spiced apple filling, all topped with a luscious vanilla glaze that elevates every bite. Ready to explore how to bring the charm of a traditional Danish dessert into your home? Let’s get baking!
Why is Apple Kringle a Must-Try?
Exquisite Taste: This Apple Kringle combines a sweet, spiced apple filling with a rich vanilla glaze that delights every palate.
Versatile Options: Whether you enjoy it warm for breakfast or chilled as dessert, it caters to all occasions.
Customizable: Feel free to substitute apples with pears or berries, or add a layer of cream cheese for extra decadence!
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up this stunning pastry with confidence.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family dinners, it’s sure to impress everyone! For more delightful desserts, try my Cheesecake with Pumpkin Swirl or Vanilla Pecan Pralines!
Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze Ingredients
• Discover everything you need to make this delicious pastry!
For the Pastry
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – This forms the base of the pastry; for a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the filling.
- 1 tablespoon sugar – Adds a subtle sweetness to the dough.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed – Provides richness and ensures flakiness; avoid using softened butter for best results.
- 1/4 cup cold water – Binds the dough effectively; keeping it cold helps to maintain the flakiness.
For the Apple Filling
- 3 medium-sized apples, peeled and diced – Offers a perfect sweet and tart flavor; Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are excellent choices.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar – Sweetens the apple filling while adding moisture.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Infuses the filling with warm, cozy spice.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens the apple flavor and helps prevent browning.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Thickens the apple filling during baking to prevent sogginess.
For the Vanilla Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar – The main ingredient for creating that sweet, glossy glaze.
- 2 tablespoons milk – Adjusts the consistency of the glaze for perfect drizzling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Delivers a rich vanilla flavor; for a variation, almond extract can be used.
With these simple yet essential ingredients, you’re on your way to baking an incredible Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze that will bring smiles to your loved ones!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Cut in 1 cup of chilled, cubed unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or fork, mixing until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add in 1/4 cup of cold water, stirring until a dough forms, then wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
While the dough chills, prepare the apple filling by mixing 3 peeled and diced medium-sized apples with 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in a separate bowl. Stir gently to coat the apples evenly, allowing the mixture to sit for a few minutes to meld the flavors and soften the apples slightly.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry dough into a rectangle, about 12×16 inches, ensuring it’s an even thickness. Aim for a thin layer that will bake up flaky and golden, showcasing the beauty of your homemade Apple Kringle as it puffs up in the oven.
Step 4: Assemble the Kringle
Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon the apple mixture down the center of the dough, leaving about 2 inches of space on either side. Make diagonal slits about 1 inch apart along the edges of the dough, cutting toward the filling to allow for braiding.
Step 5: Create the Braided Effect
Fold the flaps of dough over the apple filling, alternating sides to create a beautiful braided pattern. Pinch the ends to seal the filling inside, ensuring no juices escape during baking. This step is key to achieving an attractive, rustic look in your Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze.
Step 6: Bake the Kringle
Place the assembled Apple Kringle in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky. Keep an eye on it as it bakes, noting the rich aroma of cinnamon and apples filling your kitchen, giving you that sweet hint that it’s nearly ready.
Step 7: Cool and Prepare the Glaze
Once baked, remove the Kringle from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. While it cools, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth, creating the perfect glossy glaze to drizzle over your cooled pastry.
Step 8: Drizzle the Vanilla Glaze
After your Apple Kringle has cooled slightly, drizzle the prepared vanilla glaze evenly over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides. Let this glaze set for a few minutes before slicing. This final touch adds a sweet, decadent finish to your delightful Apple Kringle, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pastry dough and apple filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate; this keeps it fresh and maintains flakiness. For the filling, mix the diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge to prevent browning. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the dough, assemble the kringle, and bake as instructed. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze
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Chill the Butter: Ensure your unsalted butter is chilled to achieve maximum flakiness in the dough, giving you that light, airy texture.
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Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix the ingredients until just combined. Overworking can lead to tough pastry instead of the desired flaky layers.
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Even Apple Slices: Cut your apples into uniform pieces for even cooking. This helps prevent some becoming mushy while others remain crunchy in the filling.
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Check Oven Temp: Ovens can vary widely in temperature. Keep an eye on your Apple Kringle in the last few minutes to avoid over-baking.
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Glaze Consistency: If your vanilla glaze is too thick, add a splash more milk to ensure it’s easy to drizzle over the cooled pastry.
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Customize Flavors: Feel free to mix things up! Try adding almond extract to the glaze for a different flavor twist or include nuts for added crunch in the filling.
Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze Variations
Personalize your Apple Kringle with delightful twists that will make your taste buds sing!
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to cater to your gluten-sensitive friends without sacrificing taste.
- Fruit Fusion: Replace apples with pears, peaches, or berries for a refreshing seasonal twist. Each fruit brings its own unique sweetness!
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for a delicious crunch that pairs beautifully with the tender fruit. The texture contrast is simply divine.
- Cheesy Delight: Include a layer of cream cheese mixed with vanilla beneath the apple filling for added creaminess. It takes the richness to another level!
- Cinnamon Swirl: Mix extra cinnamon or even a pinch of nutmeg into the dough for a spiced flavor throughout the pastry. It’s like adding a warm hug in every bite!
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the vanilla glaze for an added layer of decadence that takes this treat over the top. Just remember—a little goes a long way!
- Citrus Zest: Infuse your filling with lemon or orange zest for a bright, refreshing note that balances the sweetness of the apples nicely. It lights up the flavors!
- Heat It Up: For those who like a little kick, add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the apple mixture for a surprising twist that complements the sweetness.
Feel free to explore these variations to create your own unique version of this Apple Kringle. For more yummy ideas, consider trying out my Spicy Korean Chicken Wings with Gochujang Sauce or our delightful Brown Sugar Apple Pie. Happy baking!
What to Serve with Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze
Elevate your delightful pastry experience with perfect pairings that complement its sweet and spiced flavors!
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds refreshing acidity that balances the richness of the Kringle. The juiciness of berries or citrus will be a beautiful contrast on your plate.
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Coffee or Tea:Serve with a steaming cup of brewed coffee or fragrant herbal tea to warm up your senses. The hints of cinnamon in the pastry work harmoniously with your favorite morning or evening brew.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream brings a creamy texture that enhances the overall indulgence. It makes each bite feel luxurious and comforting.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop alongside your Apple Kringle for a delightful warm-and-cold experience. The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream perfectly complements the sweet apple filling.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over a slice creates a dynamic sweetness that pairs beautifully with the apples. It adds an irresistible touch of decadence to your dessert.
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Almonds or Pecans: A sprinkle of chopped nuts provides an added crunch that contrasts the soft pastry and tender apples. Their earthy flavor enhances the overall experience, making every bite satisfying.
Let your table come alive with these companion dishes, enhancing the warm and inviting nature of your Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze!
Storage Tips for Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze
Room Temperature: Keep your leftover Apple Kringle wrapped in plastic or aluminum foil at room temperature for up to 2 days to enjoy its fresh flavors.
Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate the wrapped Kringle for about a week. This helps maintain its texture while keeping it delicious.
Freezer: To preserve for later enjoyment, freeze the Apple Kringle (well-wrapped) for up to 3 months. When ready to delight again, let it thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating: Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for a quick indulgence, ensuring that glorious vanilla glaze remains intact!
Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze Recipe FAQs
What type of apples are best for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for their tartness, which balances the sweetness of the filling beautifully. You can also experiment with a mix of apples for added depth of flavor.
How can I store leftover Apple Kringle?
To keep your delicious Apple Kringle fresh, wrap it in plastic or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer preservation, refrigerate it for about a week. If you want to save it for later, you can freeze the Kringle (well-wrapped) for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze Apple Kringle? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your Apple Kringle! Firstly, allow it to cool completely after baking. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, remove it from the freezer and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. After thawing, you can reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for a quick treat.
What should I do if my pastry dough feels too dry?
If your dough seems too dry, try adding a teaspoon of cold water, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Avoid overworking it to maintain flakiness. Remember, the dough should be moist but not sticky—just the right balance to create those lovely layers!
Is this recipe suitable for those with gluten intolerances?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be mindful to include a teaspoon of xanthan gum to help the dough hold together well. This ensures you enjoy a delicious Apple Kringle without worry.
How long does it take to prepare and bake the Apple Kringle?
The overall preparation and baking process takes about 1 hour. Allow yourself around 30 minutes to prepare the dough and apple filling, followed by about 25-30 minutes of baking. Plus, a 10-minute cooling time before glazing, making it a perfect treat you can whip up in no time!
Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in butter until resembling coarse crumbs. Add cold water gradually until dough forms. Wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the apple filling by mixing apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch in another bowl. Allow to sit.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled pastry into a rectangle on a floured surface.
- Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon apple mixture down the center and make diagonal slits along the edges.
- Fold the flaps over the filling, creating a braided pattern. Pinch ends to seal securely.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown. Keep an eye on it while baking.
- Let the kringle cool for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for the glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled kringle and let it set before slicing.
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