Dessert

Wisconsin Apple Kringle Recipe

ByMatteo Rossi November 28, 2025November 28, 2025

Introduction

Wisconsin Apple Kringle is a delightful Nordic pastry filled with sweet apple pie filling and a hint of cardamom. Its flaky, buttery layers and smooth glaze make it a perfect treat for breakfast or dessert. This recipe will guide you through making this classic, impressive pastry at home.

A golden brown puff pastry roll cut into five thick slices sits on a wooden board. Each slice shows soft, layered dough inside with a crispy, sugary crust on top. A shiny glaze with a light cream color drips slowly over the top, adding a smooth texture to the crunchy surface. The wooden board contrasts with the white marbled texture beneath it, making the pastry stand out. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, 2 teaspoons water, and active dry yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, kosher salt, and granulated sugar. Cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 3: Add the yeast mixture and egg to the flour mixture. Stir just until the dough comes together, being careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Form the dough into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 5: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a large rectangle.
Step 6: Spread the apple pie filling down the center of the rectangle and sprinkle evenly with ground cardamom.
Step 7: Fold the dough over the filling lengthwise, sealing the edges securely. Shape it into an oval or horseshoe form and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 8: If desired, brush the top with a little egg wash for extra shine. Bake for 22–25 minutes until golden brown and flaky. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 9: To prepare the glaze, mix powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 2–3 teaspoons of water until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled kringle and let it set before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flakiness, make sure your butter is cold and the dough is chilled before rolling.
Substitute apple pie filling with other fruit fillings like cherry or blueberry for variation.
If you prefer a spicier twist, add a pinch of cinnamon along with the cardamom.

Storage

Store the kringle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze wrapped tightly for up to 1 month. Reheat gently in the oven before serving to restore crispness.