Wisconsin Apple Kringle
If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion, you’ve come to the right place! The Wisconsin Apple Kringle is a cherished recipe that perfectly balances flakiness, buttery richness, and a sweet apple filling. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dessert or a special breakfast for family gatherings, this pastry is sure to impress everyone at the table. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate!
Not only does this Wisconsin Apple Kringle taste amazing, but it also fills your home with the most heavenly aroma as it bakes. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a go-to for cozy mornings and delightful afternoons.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find that whipping up this Kringle is a breeze!
- Family-friendly: Everyone loves that warm apple filling wrapped in flaky pastry—perfect for all ages!
- Make-ahead option: You can prepare the dough ahead of time, making it easy to bake fresh Kringle whenever the craving hits.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as breakfast or dessert; it’s delicious either way!
- Impressive presentation: This beautiful pastry will wow your guests and make any meal feel special.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! Each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect flaky texture and sweet flavor. Let’s dive into what you’ll need for your Wisconsin Apple Kringle!
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
One of the best things about this Wisconsin Apple Kringle is its flexibility! You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:
- Try different fillings: Use cherry pie filling or even cream cheese for a delightful change-up.
- Add spices: Mix in cinnamon or nutmeg with your apple pie filling for an extra flavor boost.
- Make it fruity: Add some chopped nuts or dried fruits like cranberries for added texture.
- Experiment with glazes: Swap out vanilla extract for almond extract in your glaze for a unique twist!
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 helps the dough rise beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar. Next, cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This creates those lovely flaky layers in your pastry! Then add in the yeast mixture and egg. Stir gently until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough dough.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Form your dough into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps relax the gluten and makes rolling out easier later on.
Step 4: Roll Out and Fill
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out your chilled dough into a large rectangle. Spread that delicious apple pie filling down the center and sprinkle with cardamom to elevate those flavors!
Step 5: Fold and Shape
Fold the dough over lengthwise to cover the filling completely. Seal those edges well! Shape it into an oval or horseshoe form before transferring it to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake
Brush with a bit of egg wash if you like that golden sheen (though it’s optional!) and bake for about 22–25 minutes until golden brown and flaky. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack so those flavors can settle in.
Step 7: Drizzle with Glaze
Mix powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough water until smooth to create your glaze. Drizzle generously over your cooled Kringle and let it set before slicing into those heavenly pieces!
Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Wisconsin Apple Kringle! Whether shared with loved ones or savored solo with coffee, it’s sure to make any moment sweeter.
Pro Tips for Making Wisconsin Apple Kringle
Making the perfect Wisconsin Apple Kringle is all about attention to detail, and these tips will help you achieve that flaky, tender pastry every time!
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Use cold butter: Keeping the butter cold helps create those flaky layers. As the butter melts during baking, it creates steam that puffs up the dough.
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Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined ensures your Kringle remains tender. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture, which we definitely want to avoid!
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Chill before rolling: Allowing the dough to rest in the refrigerator not only makes it easier to roll out but also helps maintain that lovely flakiness when baked.
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Experiment with fillings: While apple pie filling is traditional, feel free to try other fruit fillings like cherry or blueberry for a fun twist on this classic recipe.
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Let it cool before glazing: This prevents the glaze from melting into the warm pastry and ensures a beautiful presentation when you slice it.
How to Serve Wisconsin Apple Kringle
Serving your Wisconsin Apple Kringle can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas for presenting this scrumptious pastry that will impress your family or guests.
Garnishes
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Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of sweetness and elegance without overwhelming the flavors.
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Cinnamon sprinkle: A gentle dusting of ground cinnamon over the glaze gives an aromatic enhancement that complements the apple filling beautifully.
Side Dishes
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Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits brings a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the Kringle. It’s light, bright, and a great way to balance out your meal.
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Yogurt parfait: Serving a yogurt parfait with layers of creamy yogurt, granola, and berries provides a satisfying crunch and creaminess that pairs well with the sweet pastry.
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Coffee or spiced tea: A warm beverage like freshly brewed coffee or spiced tea complements the cozy flavors of this pastry, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
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Vanilla ice cream: For a dessert twist, serve warm slices of Kringle alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The melting ice cream contrasts wonderfully with the warm pastry’s gooey apple center.
These serving suggestions will elevate your Wisconsin Apple Kringle experience and make it even more enjoyable for everyone at your table!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Wisconsin Apple Kringle is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy the deliciousness throughout the week. Here are some tips on storing, freezing, and reheating your Kringle to keep it fresh and delightful.
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftover Kringle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- If you prefer a longer storage option, refrigerate it for up to a week.
- To maintain freshness, consider wrapping slices in plastic wrap before placing them in the container.
Freezing
- Wrap the cooled Kringle or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped Kringle in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your container with the date!
Reheating
- For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Drizzle with a bit of extra glaze after reheating for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making Wisconsin Apple Kringle.
Can I use another fruit filling instead of apple?
Absolutely! While this recipe features apple pie filling, you can substitute it with pear or cherry pie filling for a delicious twist.
How do I make Wisconsin Apple Kringle vegan?
To make this Wisconsin Apple Kringle vegan, substitute the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg replacer and use plant-based butter.
What makes Wisconsin Apple Kringle different from other pastries?
Wisconsin Apple Kringle stands out due to its flaky layers and buttery crust filled with warm spiced apple pie filling, making it a delightful treat any time of day.
Can I add nuts to my Wisconsin Apple Kringle?
Yes! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can be added to the apple filling for an extra crunch and flavor boost.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in creating this delightful Wisconsin Apple Kringle! It’s not just a pastry; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings comfort whether enjoyed at breakfast or as dessert. Enjoy every buttery bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try. Happy baking!
Wisconsin Apple Kringle
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Wisconsin Apple Kringle, a luscious pastry that combines flaky layers with a sweet apple filling. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, this homemade treat is sure to impress family and friends alike. With its buttery richness and warm spices, each bite feels like a comforting hug on a plate. The heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes will become one of your favorite memories. This recipe is not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing you to adapt it with various fillings and glazes. Enjoy the cozy experience of creating this traditional Scandinavian pastry that brings joy to any occasion.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 8 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Scandinavian
Ingredients
- 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
- 2 oz apple pie filling
- 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 tsp water (for glaze)
Instructions
- Activate yeast by combining warm milk, water, and yeast in a small bowl; let sit for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
- Add the yeast mixture and egg; stir gently until just combined.
- Chill dough wrapped in plastic wrap for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out chilled dough into a rectangle; spread apple filling along the center.
- Fold dough over filling and shape into an oval or horseshoe on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 22–25 minutes until golden brown; cool on a wire rack.
- Mix powdered sugar with vanilla extract and water for glaze; drizzle over cooled Kringle.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg