Name: Wisconsin Apple Kringle: The Perfect Cozy Bake for Fall
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup sugar (can use brown sugar for depth); 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (or instant yeast); 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F); ½ cup cold butter (cubed); 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan); 4 cups Granny Smith apples (peeled and chopped); ½ cup sugar (adjust based on tartness); 2 teaspoons cinnamon (add nutmeg for extra kick); 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk (or water for vegan); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract)

There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked pastry wafting through the kitchen, and when it’s a Wisconsin Apple Kringle, that magic transforms into pure joy. This buttery Danish-style pastry is not just a feast for the taste buds; it brings together the warmth of spiced apples and the delightful crunch of a perfectly flaky crust. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility—perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy holiday mornings. Plus, you can whip it up relatively quickly, making it the ideal treat for both experienced bakers and those who may find their baking skills a bit rusty. As we dive into this delightful creation, prepare to discover how this simple yet impressive pastry can brighten any occasion. Ready to fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas? Let’s get started on making your very own Wisconsin Apple Kringle!

Why is Wisconsin Apple Kringle Special?

Warm, Inviting Aroma: As it bakes, your kitchen fills with the delightful scent of cinnamon and apples, instantly making it feel like home.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy holiday mornings, it suits any occasion, whether it’s a relaxed weekend or a festive feast.
Quick to Whip Up: This recipe is surprisingly easy and requires minimal time, meaning even novice bakers can impress friends and family without the stress.
Decadent Flavors: The combination of spiced apples and flaky pastry creates a delectable eating experience that rivals any bakery treat.
Cultural Comfort: Inspired by Wisconsin’s rich baking heritage, this pastry represents a beautiful fusion of Midwestern warmth and Scandinavian tradition. For some fruity side options, consider pairing it with a refreshing Pineapple Cucumber Salad or even some BBQ Pineapple Chicken.

Wisconsin Apple Kringle Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create this delicious pastry that will fill your home with comforting aromas.

For the Dough

Flour – Provides structure for the pastry base; use all-purpose flour for best results.
Yeast – Acts as a leavening agent for lightness; can substitute with instant yeast if needed.
Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor; brown sugar can create a caramel note.
Milk – Moistens the dough; almond or oat milk work great as non-dairy alternatives.
Butter – Essential for flaky layers; make sure it’s cold for the best texture; consider cold cubed vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
Egg – Provides richness and aids in browning the crust; for vegan, substitute with a flax egg or applesauce.

For the Filling

Apples – The main filling component; Granny Smith apples add a perfect tartness.
Cinnamon – Enhances the spice profile; feel free to add nutmeg for an extra kick.
Sugar – Sweetens the apple mixture; adjust amount based on your apples’ tartness.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Provides a sweet and smooth finish to your kringle.
Milk – Thins the glaze; use water for a vegan-friendly option.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a delightful flavor; almond extract can offer a unique twist.

With these Wisconsin Apple Kringle ingredients, you’re ready to create a delightful pastry that will impress everyone at your table. Happy baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of sugar, and 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast. Gradually mix in 1 cup of warm milk (about 110°F) and ½ cup of cold, cubed butter until the dough starts to come together. Knead the mixture for about 5-7 minutes until you achieve a smooth and elastic dough.

Step 2: Chill the Dough
Once you’ve kneaded the dough, form it into a ball and cover it with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Place the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to chill; this allows the butter to firm up and the dough to relax, ensuring a flaky crust for your Wisconsin Apple Kringle.

Step 3: Make the Filling
While the dough chills, prepare the filling by peeling and chopping 4 cups of Granny Smith apples. In a large bowl, combine the apple pieces with ½ cup of sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, mixing until the apples are evenly coated. Set the filling aside to allow the flavors to meld together as you roll out the dough.

Step 4: Shape the Kringle
After chilling, retrieve the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle approximately 16×24 inches. Spoon the apple filling down the center, leaving about 2 inches of space on the sides. Fold the edges over the filling to create an oval shape, pinching the seams to seal the filling inside your Wisconsin Apple Kringle securely.

Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully transfer the shaped kringle onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake it for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly. Keep an eye on it for that perfect color that signals deliciousness is on the way!

Step 6: Add Glaze
Once baked, allow the Wisconsin Apple Kringle to cool slightly on a wire rack. In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the kringle while it’s still warm, allowing it to soak into the pastry for a sweet finish.

What to Serve with Wisconsin Apple Kringle

There’s nothing quite like gathering around the table with comforting sides that perfectly complement a freshly baked pastry.

Cinnamon Coffee: A warm cup of cinnamon coffee enhances the spiced apple flavors, creating a cozy atmosphere for your meal.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, homemade whipped cream adds a creamy touch that balances the kringle’s sweetness beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over a slice of warm kringle is pure bliss—think comforting dessert vibes!
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like berries or citrus cuts through the richness of the kringle, bringing brightness to your plate.
Hot Apple Cider: Infused with spices, this warm drink offers a delightful pairing that elevates the apple flavors in the kringle.
Savory Cheese Platter: Complement the sweetness with a bite of tangy cheese—try cheddar or brie for exciting texture contrast and flavor balance.

Indulging in these delicious pairings will turn your Wisconsin Apple Kringle experience into a cherished memory, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Expert Tips for Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Chill the Dough: Refrigerate your dough for at least 30 minutes to ensure cold butter, which is crucial for achieving that light and flaky texture.
Sealing Edges: Make sure to pinch the edges firmly when shaping the kringle; this prevents any delicious apple filling from leaking out while baking.
Egg Wash Option: For an extra golden crust, brush the surface of the kringle with an egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a bit of water) before placing it in the oven.
Controlled Filling Amount: Avoid overfilling the kringle; too much filling can lead to sogginess, impacting the overall texture.
Baking Time Monitoring: Keep an eye on your kringle as it bakes; every oven is different, so check for a beautiful golden color and bubbling filling to know it’s done!

Wisconsin Apple Kringle Variations

Feel free to put your spin on this delightful pastry and make it uniquely yours!

Fruit Swap: Use pears or berries for the filling. Each fruit offers a different flavor profile, keeping things fresh and exciting.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple filling. This brings a lovely crunch that complements the soft apples beautifully.
Maple Sweetness: Swap regular sugar for maple syrup in the filling. This extra layer of flavor creates a delightful twist that’s both rich and comforting.
Spice It Up: Try adding nutmeg or ginger to the cinnamon for a zingy kick. A little heat goes a long way in enhancing the overall spice blend!
Dairy-Free Delight: For a completely dairy-free version, use almond milk and vegan butter. You won’t compromise on taste, and everyone can enjoy a slice.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. This way, everyone can join in the yummy goodness.
Add-Ins: Toss in some dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for extra sweetness and texture. They’ll make each bite even more special.

Looking for more delicious baked ideas? Give the tender Chicken Apple Sausage or a refreshing Pineapple Cucumber Salad a try to round out your meal!

Make Ahead Options

Wisconsin Apple Kringle is an excellent recipe for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing taste! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours ahead; simply mix, knead, and chill the dough as instructed, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap. The apple filling can also be made up to 3 days in advance—just combine the apples, sugar, and cinnamon and refrigerate. To finish the kringle, roll out the chilled dough, add the filling, shape, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a delightful pastry ready to impress with minimal effort, just as delicious as if freshly made!

Storage Tips for Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Room Temperature: Store your kringle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to retain its flaky texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you want to keep it fresh longer, refrigerate the kringle, where it will last for about a week; wrap it tightly to prevent dryness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices of your Wisconsin Apple Kringle in plastic wrap and then place in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its delightful flakiness, or microwave for about 30 seconds.

Wisconsin Apple Kringle Recipe FAQs

What kind of apples should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! Granny Smith apples are highly recommended due to their tartness, which balances perfectly with the sweetness of the sugar and cinnamon. However, feel free to experiment with other tart apple varieties, such as Honeycrisp or Braeburn, to find your ideal flavor profile.

How should I store leftover Wisconsin Apple Kringle?
To keep your kringle fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, wrap it tightly and refrigerate for up to a week. Just make sure to let it cool completely before storing to maintain that perfect texture!

Can I freeze Wisconsin Apple Kringle?
Yes, definitely! To freeze your kringle, slice it first, then wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds for a quick treat.

What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to the yeast not being activated or not enough warmth—yeast loves a cozy environment! Ensure that your milk isn’t too hot when adding it, as temperatures over 120°F can kill the yeast. Also, try placing the dough in a warm, draft-free area covered with a towel to encourage rising.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the Wisconsin Apple Kringle?
Very much so! You can easily make this kringle dairy-free by substituting the milk with almond or oat milk and using cold cubed vegan butter instead of regular butter. For the egg, replace it with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or use unsweetened applesauce for added moisture. Enjoy this delightful pastry without compromise!