Wisconsin Apple Kringle
If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings warmth and joy, you’ve come to the right place! This Wisconsin Apple Kringle is one of those recipes that fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of spiced apples and buttery pastry. It’s a cherished favorite in my home, perfect for cozy breakfasts or as a sweet ending to any meal. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make and is sure to impress your family and friends, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a quiet Sunday morning.
This lovely pastry is not just about taste; it’s about creating memories. Picture yourself sharing slices of this flaky goodness over coffee with loved ones. Trust me, once you take a bite of this Wisconsin Apple Kringle, you’ll understand why it holds such a special place in my heart!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: This recipe may look fancy, but it comes together easily, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Family-Friendly Appeal: With its sweet apple filling and soft pastry, everyone will love this delicious treat—kids and adults alike!
- Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time, making it a great option for busy mornings or unexpected guests.
- Versatile Delight: Enjoy it warm for breakfast or cool as dessert; either way, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
- Cozy Flavors: The combination of spiced apples and buttery crust creates a comforting treat that warms the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients to create this Wisconsin Apple Kringle. Don’t worry; they are easy to find and won’t break the bank!
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 beautiful things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and fillings that suit your taste.
- Try Different Fruits: Swap out apple pie filling for other fruits like cherry or blueberry for a delightful twist.
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans inside for added crunch and flavor.
- Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg in the filling for extra warmth.
- Vegan Option: Substitute butter with plant-based margarine and use flaxseed meal mixed with water instead of an egg.
How to Make Wisconsin Apple Kringle
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm milk, water, and yeast. Let this sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. Activating the yeast is crucial because it helps your dough rise beautifully!
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step gives our pastry its signature flakiness!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add in the yeast mixture along with the egg. Stir just until the dough comes together—try not to overmix! A gentle touch ensures your kringle stays tender.
Step 4: Chill Out
Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps relax gluten in the dough, resulting in an even flakier pastry.
Step 5: Roll It Out
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out your chilled dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Rolling it out evenly ensures every slice has that perfect golden crust!
Step 6: Add Filling
Spread apple pie filling down the center of your rolled-out dough and sprinkle with cardamom. This aromatic spice adds warmth that perfectly complements the apples!
Step 7: Fold and Shape
Fold the dough over the filling lengthwise, sealing those edges tightly. Shape it into an oval or horseshoe form before transferring it to a parchment-lined baking sheet. This shape gives our kringle its classic look.
Step 8: Bake Until Golden
Brush with egg wash if desired (this gives it a lovely sheen) and bake for 22–25 minutes until golden brown and flaky. Keep an eye on it while baking; you want that beautiful color!
Step 9: Drizzle with Glaze
Once cooled completely on a wire rack, mix powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and water until smooth. Drizzle this delightful glaze over your kringle and let set before slicing into generous pieces.
And there you have it—a stunning Wisconsin Apple Kringle that’s sure to impress! Enjoy each bite as you savor those cozy flavors shared among friends and family.
Pro Tips for Making Wisconsin Apple Kringle
Making a perfect Wisconsin Apple Kringle is all about technique and a little patience. Here are some tips to ensure your pastry turns out just right!
- Use cold ingredients – Starting with cold butter and milk helps create that flaky, tender texture we all love in pastries. Warm ingredients can lead to a tough dough.
- Don’t skip the chilling step – Allowing the dough to rest in the refrigerator not only makes it easier to handle but also helps develop the layers that give your Kringle its signature flakiness.
- Roll evenly – When rolling out your dough, aim for an even thickness. This ensures uniform baking and prevents some parts from becoming overcooked while others remain underdone.
- Seal edges well – Properly sealing the edges of your Kringle will keep the delicious apple filling from leaking out during baking. A little water on your fingers can help create a tight seal.
- Experiment with fillings – While apple pie filling is traditional, feel free to get creative! Try adding nuts, raisins, or other spices to customize your Kringle to suit your taste.
How to Serve Wisconsin Apple Kringle
Serving your Wisconsin Apple Kringle can be as delightful as making it! With its beautiful golden crust and tempting aroma, this pastry deserves a wonderful presentation.
Garnishes
- Powdered sugar dusting – A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and enhances the sweetness without overwhelming the dish.
- Cinnamon sprinkle – A dash of cinnamon on top before serving ties in beautifully with the apple filling and gives an extra cozy vibe.
Side Dishes
- Fresh fruit salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the richness of the Kringle.
- Yogurt parfait – Layering yogurt with granola and berries creates a creamy counterpart that complements the flaky pastry perfectly.
- Coffee or tea – A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances the flavors of your Kringle, making it an ideal breakfast or afternoon treat.
- Whipped coconut cream – For a dairy-free option, serve with light whipped coconut cream for a luscious topping that pairs well with the sweet apple filling.
With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy a delightful slice of Wisconsin Apple Kringle that will impress family and friends alike! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Wisconsin Apple Kringle is not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can enjoy it fresh or store it for later, making it an excellent option for busy mornings or cozy afternoons.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the kringle to cool completely before storing.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing
- Cool the kringle completely before freezing.
- Wrap in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, slice before freezing so you can enjoy individual pieces.
Reheating
- To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the kringle on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil.
- Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy fresh from the oven!
FAQs
If you have questions about making this delicious pastry, you’re in the right place!
What is Wisconsin Apple Kringle made of?
Wisconsin Apple Kringle is made with a flaky pastry dough filled with spiced apple pie filling and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze. This comforting treat is perfect for breakfast or dessert!
How do I store Wisconsin Apple Kringle?
To store Wisconsin Apple Kringle, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
Can I customize the filling in my Wisconsin Apple Kringle?
Absolutely! While apple pie filling is traditional, you can experiment with other fillings like pumpkin, cherry, or even cream cheese to create your unique version.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this Wisconsin Apple Kringle as much as I do! It’s a special recipe that brings warmth and comfort any time of year. Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or simply a sweet snack, this kringle will surely delight everyone who tries it. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations!
Wisconsin Apple Kringle
If you’re in search of a delightful pastry that combines warmth and comfort, look no further than this Wisconsin Apple Kringle. This flaky treat is filled with spiced apple pie filling and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Ideal for cozy breakfasts or as a charming dessert, this easy-to-make kringle will impress your family and friends alike. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh from the oven or as an afternoon snack, each slice promises to evoke feelings of nostalgia and joy. With its buttery crust and comforting aroma, this recipe is bound to become a cherished favorite in your home.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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 oz apple pie filling
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 tsp water (for glaze)
- 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
Instructions
- Activate the yeast by combining warm milk, water, and yeast in a small bowl; let sit until foamy (about 5 minutes).
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
- Add the yeast mixture and egg; mix gently until combined.
- Shape into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll chilled dough into a rectangle.
- Spread apple pie filling along the center and sprinkle with cardamom.
- Fold dough over the filling lengthwise; shape into an oval or horseshoe on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 22–25 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool completely before drizzling with glaze made from powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and water.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg