Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze Recipe

There is something utterly magical about a warm, flaky pastry filled with tender, spiced apples and topped with a luscious vanilla drizzle that brings pure comfort in every bite. This Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze Recipe blends buttery, tender layered dough with a sweet cinnamon apple filling, finished with a shiny glaze that makes it feel like a special treat anytime of the day. Whether it’s brunch, dessert, or a cozy afternoon pick-me-up, this recipe promises a beautiful balance of flavors and textures that will quickly become one of your favorites to share with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze Recipe is delightfully straightforward. Each element plays a vital role—from the tender all-purpose flour dough to the fragrant cinnamon-spiced apples, and the sweet vanilla glaze that ties everything together with a perfect touch.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and tender crumb for the kringle dough.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness throughout the pastry.
• 1 tablespoon sugar: Adds a gentle sweetness to the dough itself.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed: Creates flaky layers and rich flavor in the pastry.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Keeps the dough tender and moist with a slight tang.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses aroma and warmth into the dough and glaze.
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced: The star of the filling, bringing sweetness and texture.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: Sweetens and caramelizes the apples with deep molasses notes.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds the classic cozy spice that makes apple desserts unforgettable.
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Gives the kringle a beautiful golden-brown shine when baked.
• For Vanilla Glaze:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar: The base of the sweet glaze for drizzling.
  • 2 tablespoons milk: Helps achieve the perfect glaze consistency.
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Delivers a lovely vanilla flavor to complement the apple filling.

How to Make Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough Base

Start by whisking the flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl to evenly distribute the dry ingredients. This simple step ensures every bite of the dough is perfectly seasoned.

Step 2: Cut in the Butter

Next, cut the chilled, cubed butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or fork until it resembles coarse crumbs. This process is crucial for creating those wonderful flaky layers we all crave in a kringle.

Step 3: Add Sour Cream and Vanilla

Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until the dough just begins to come together. The sour cream adds tenderness while vanilla brings warmth to the flavor profile.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Form the dough into a disk, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and pop it into the refrigerator for at least an hour. Chilling firms up the butter again and relaxes the dough, making it easier to roll out.

Step 5: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The right baking environment helps the kringle bake evenly and prevents sticking.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a 12×16 inch rectangle. This shape creates the perfect canvas for layering the apple filling.

Step 7: Add the Apple Filling

Arrange the sliced apples down the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border on all sides. This ensures the filling stays inside the folded dough during baking.

Step 8: Spice it Up

Mix together brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle this fragrant mixture evenly over the apples. This combination caramelizes beautifully as it bakes, coating each slice with sweet spice.

Step 9: Fold and Seal the Kringle

Fold the short sides of the dough over the apples, then fold the long sides, overlapping slightly, to enclose the filling securely. This classic folding technique forms the iconic kringle shape.

Step 10: Egg Wash for a Golden Finish

Place the kringle seam-side down on the baking sheet and brush the top with beaten egg. This step gives your kringle that irresistible gleam and gorgeous golden crust.

Step 11: Bake the Kringle

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes until the kringle is golden brown and the apple filling is tender and bubbling. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is pure magic.

Step 12: Cool Slightly on a Wire Rack

Once baked, transfer the kringle to a wire rack to cool for a bit. Cooling prevents the vanilla glaze from melting off when applied.

Step 13: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze

While the kringle cools, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make a smooth, pourable glaze. This sweet finish adds that extra layer of delight.

Step 14: Drizzle the Glaze

Finally, generously drizzle the vanilla glaze over the warm kringle to create a shiny, sweet topping that perfectly complements every forkful.

How to Serve Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted almonds adds an elegant touch to your kringle, enhancing its appearance and offering a subtle crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.

Side Dishes

This Apple Kringle pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream for a decadent dessert experience. For breakfast or brunch, a hot cup of spiced tea or coffee is the perfect complement to balance the sweet and buttery flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve slices of the kringle on rustic wooden boards with small bowls of extra vanilla glaze on the side for dipping. For a festive touch, add edible flowers or fresh apple slices alongside the plate to create a charming, inviting presentation that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover kringle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. After that, the pastry is best kept in the fridge to maintain freshness, but be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving to enjoy the best texture.

Freezing

This Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the entire pastry tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently for a fresh-baked feel.

Reheating

To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until heated through and crisp on the outside. You can also microwave slices briefly, but the oven method helps maintain the flaky texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! Crisp apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work wonderfully. Choose your favorite variety to customize the sweetness and tartness to your liking.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it wrapped tightly and chilled in the fridge, which can even help develop richer flavors.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

With some adjustments, yes. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend designed for pastries. The texture might be slightly different, but you can still enjoy a delicious kringle.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

You can swap sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or crème fraîche, which will keep the dough tender while adding a subtle tang.

How thick should the apple slices be?

Thin slices, about 1/8 inch thick, work best. They cook evenly and meld nicely with the dough without making the filling too bulky.

Final Thoughts

Making this Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm, cozy hug of flavors and textures that feel both nostalgic and special. It’s a delightful project that rewards your efforts with a stunning pastry perfect for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and share that joyful first bite with those you love.

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