Some pastries are more than just desserts—they’re a celebration of heritage, craftsmanship, and the joy of savoring something truly special. Easy Wisconsin Apple Kringle is one such pastry. This iconic treat is a delightful combination of flaky, buttery layers, sweet apple filling, and a delicate glaze, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Imagine a pastry that’s light, tender, and bursting with the flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples, all wrapped in a golden, flaky crust. It’s a treat that feels like a warm embrace, whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of coffee in the morning or sharing it with loved ones after dinner.

The first time I made this pastry, it was for a holiday brunch. I wanted something that would impress my guests but wasn’t too complicated to prepare, and this recipe caught my eye. As the kringle baked, the aroma of apples, cinnamon, and butter filled the kitchen, and my family couldn’t stop asking, “What’s in the oven? It smells amazing!” When I pulled the golden pastry out of the oven and drizzled it with glaze, everyone gathered around the table, eager to try it. “This is incredible!” my sister exclaimed, reaching for a second slice. Since then, Easy Wisconsin Apple Kringle has become a holiday tradition in my home.

The first time I served this pastry to friends, it was at a weekend brunch. One of my friends, who’s known for her baking skills, had brought her famous cinnamon rolls, and I was a little nervous to present my kringle. But as soon as I placed it on the table, the flaky layers and sweet apple filling started drawing everyone in. “What’s this?” a friend asked, eyeing the pastry curiously. “A little taste of Wisconsin,” I replied, smiling.
When everyone took their first bite, the room went quiet. Then came the murmurs of approval. “This is so good!” someone said, reaching for another slice. Even my baking-savvy friend nodded in approval. “You’ve got to give me this recipe,” she said with a smile. That day, Easy Wisconsin Apple Kringle became a brunch favorite, and it’s been a staple at every gathering since.

Why This Easy Wisconsin Apple Kringle?

Selling Points:

• Flaky and Delicious: The combination of buttery layers and sweet apple filling creates a pastry that’s both light and indulgent.
• Simple Ingredients: With easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe is perfect for home bakers of all levels.
• Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or even a midday snack.
• Customizable: Add your favorite fruits, nuts, or spices to make it your own.

What You Need for Easy Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
  • 1/4 cup cold water
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
• For the Filling:
  • 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• For the Glaze:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tbsp milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Easy Wisconsin Apple Kringle

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and cold butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the cold water and sour cream, and mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped apples, sugar, cinnamon, and nuts (if using). Set aside.
3. Roll the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches). Spread the apple filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Shape the Kringle: Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Carefully transfer the log to a parchment-lined baking sheet, shaping it into an oval or circle. Pinch the ends together to seal.
5. Bake the Kringle: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the kringle for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
6. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the warm kringle.
7. Serve: Slice the kringle and serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for the Perfect Apple Kringle

• Cold Ingredients: Use cold butter and water for a flaky crust.
• Even Filling: Spread the apple filling evenly to ensure every bite is flavorful.
• Seal Well: Pinch the ends of the dough tightly to prevent the filling from leaking.
• Rest the Dough: Chilling the dough makes it easier to roll and shape.
• Make Ahead: The kringle can be assembled a day in advance and baked fresh the next morning.

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the dough.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free butter and sour cream alternatives.
• Different Fruits: Try using pears, peaches, or berries instead of apples.
• Nut-Free: Omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin.
• Spiced Glaze: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for extra flavor.

Make a Healthier Version

• Whole Wheat Flour: Use whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Less Sugar: Reduce the sugar in the filling and glaze by half.
• Greek Yogurt: Replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter dough.
• Fresh Fruit Topping: Skip the glaze and top with fresh fruit for a natural sweetness.

Closing for Easy Wisconsin Apple Kringle

This Easy Wisconsin Apple Kringle is more than just a pastry—it’s a celebration of flavor, tradition, and the joy of sharing something special with loved ones. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this kringle is sure to impress. Don’t forget to let us know how your kringle turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more culinary inspiration. Happy baking!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Can I make this kringle ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the kringle a day in advance and bake it fresh the next morning.

Can I freeze this kringle?
Absolutely! Freeze the baked kringle (without glaze) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and add the glaze before serving.

Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, puff pastry or pie crust can be used as a shortcut.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend for the dough.

Can I add other flavors?
Yes, try adding raisins, dried cranberries, or a splash of lemon juice to the filling.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use plant-based butter, sour cream, and milk alternatives.

What’s the best way to serve this kringle?
Serve warm or at room temperature with a cup of coffee or tea.

This Easy Wisconsin Apple Kringle is a testament to the magic of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a pastry that’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy baking!

Easy Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Recipe by Aisha DevCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes

• 1/4 cup cold water

• 1/4 cup sour cream

• For the Filling:

• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

• For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2-3 tbsp milk

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

• Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and cold butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the cold water and sour cream, and mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
• Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped apples, sugar, cinnamon, and nuts (if using). Set aside.
• Roll the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches). Spread the apple filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
• Shape the Kringle: Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Carefully transfer the log to a parchment-lined baking sheet, shaping it into an oval or circle. Pinch the ends together to seal.
• Bake the Kringle: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the kringle for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
• Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the warm kringle.
• Serve: Slice the kringle and serve warm or at room temperature.