If you’re craving a delicious, flaky pastry with a sweet apple filling, this Easy Wisconsin Apple Kringle is the perfect treat for you! Inspired by the classic Scandinavian pastry, this simplified version brings all the cozy flavors of apples, cinnamon, and buttery dough right to your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. Let’s dive into why this kringle will become your new favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe!
Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh apples for a fuss-free baking experience.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of tender apples, warm cinnamon, and a flaky crust is unbeatable.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack with coffee.
Impressive Yet Easy: Looks bakery-worthy without requiring advanced skills.
Wisconsin Twist: Celebrates the state’s love for apples in a delightful, shareable pastry.
Ingredients :
For the Dough:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1/4 cup cold water
1/4 tsp salt
For the Apple Filling:
2 medium apples (preferably Wisconsin-grown, like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled and diced
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp cornstarch
For the Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
1-2 tbsp milk
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Preparation Time :
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: About 50 minutes
Method:
Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Incorporate the chilled butter into the flour using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
Gradually mix in cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to form. Form into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for 15 minutes.
Make the Apple Filling:
In a medium bowl, toss diced apples with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch until evenly coated. Set aside.
Assemble the Kringle:
Put parchment paper on a baking pan and preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Roll out the chilled dough into a large rectangle (about 12×8 inches) on a lightly floured surface.
Spoon the apple filling down the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border on each side.
Fold the sides of the dough over the filling, overlapping slightly to create a sealed log. Pinch the ends to secure.
Bake:
Place the kringle on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow it to cool a bit on a wire rack.
Add the Glaze:
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled kringle.
Storage and Serving Suggestions:
Storage: Keep any leftover kringle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate it for up to 5 days. To bring back its crisp texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
Serving: Enjoy it warm or at room temperature alongside a cup of coffee or tea. For a special treat, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 8 Servings):
Calories: 280
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Sugar: 22g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 80mg
Note: Values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Variations & Substitutions :
Fruit Swap: Substitute apples with pears, cherries, or a mix of berries for a different flavor profile.
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling for added crunch.
Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.
Enhance the Flavor: Sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom into the filling for a cozy, warm twist.
Additional Tips :
Use cold butter and water for the flakiest dough possible.
Don’t overfill the kringle to prevent leakage during baking.
For a shinier finish, brush the dough with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water) before baking.
FAQ :
1- What is a Wisconsin Apple Kringle?
A Wisconsin Apple Kringle is a flaky, buttery pastry filled with sweet apples, often spiced with cinnamon, and topped with a simple glaze. It’s a nod to the state’s apple harvest and Scandinavian heritage.
2- Can I freeze an Easy Wisconsin Apple Kringle?
Yes! Wrap the baked and cooled kringle tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Let it defrost at room temperature and warm it up before serving.
3- What apples are best for this recipe?
Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples work wonderfully in an Easy Wisconsin Apple Kringle due to their balance of sweetness and tartness.
4- Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before assembling your kringle.
Conclusion :
This Easy Wisconsin Apple Kringle is a delightful way to enjoy the comforting flavors of apple season with minimal effort. Its flaky layers, spiced filling, and sweet glaze make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring a slice solo, this recipe captures the essence of homemade goodness. Give it a try, and let this kringle become a staple in your baking repertoire!