There’s something magical about waking up to the promise of a warm, flaky pastry swirling with tender apple slices and aromatic cinnamon. This Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze brings together crisp layers of buttery dough, pockets of caramelized sweetness, and a whisper of spice that dances across your palate. It’s the kind of bake that fills your kitchen with a sense of comfort and anticipation, beckoning family and friends to gather around the table. As each slice is drizzled with a glossy vanilla glaze, you’ll notice the way light catches those sugary ribbons before they settle into every flaky nook.
The beauty of this kringle lies not just in its taste, but in the way it transforms simple ingredients—flour, butter, apples—into something extraordinary. Whether you’re aiming to surprise brunch guests or treat yourself on a lazy Sunday morning, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between elegance and approachability. You don’t need to be a professional baker to achieve those delicate layers; a little patience, some chilled butter, and the right rolling technique will get you there. And as you serve it alongside a steaming cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea, you’ll savor every tender bite and the shared smiles that follow.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN APPLE KRINGLE WITH VANILLA GLAZE
Before diving into the step-by-step process, let’s explore the essential ingredients that make this kringle come alive. Each component plays a crucial role, from creating flaky layers in the pastry to infusing the filling with bright apple flavor and warming cinnamon notes.
- All-Purpose Flour
Provides the backbone for the dough, offering structure and the right balance of gluten to achieve those irresistible flaky layers.
- Baking Powder
Gives a gentle lift to the pastry, helping it puff slightly as it bakes without creating large air pockets that would compromise the delicate texture.
- Baking Soda
Works alongside baking powder to ensure even rising, enhancing browning and complementing the tanginess of sour cream in the dough.
- Salt
Enhances the overall flavor, counterbalancing sweetness and bringing out the richness of butter and apples.
- Unsalted Butter (Chilled and Diced)
Essential for creating the layered, crisp texture of the kringle. Using chilled butter ensures it releases steam in the oven, producing flaky pockets.
- Sour Cream
Adds moisture and a slight tang, contributing to a tender crumb and enhancing the pastry’s richness.
- Cold Water
Helps bring the dough together without warming the butter, maintaining the integrity of those flaky layers.
- Unsalted Butter (Melted)
Used for brushing over the rolled dough, this butter encourages caramelization of the brown sugar and cinnamon filling.
- Brown Sugar
Provides deep, molasses-like sweetness that melds beautifully with cinnamon and apples during baking.
- Ground Cinnamon
Infuses the filling with warmth and spice, balancing the sweetness and brightening the apple flavor.
- Apple (Peeled, Cored, and Thinly Sliced)
The star of the show—juicy, slightly crisp slices that soften in the oven and release natural sugars as they bake.
- Powdered Sugar
Forms the base of the silky vanilla glaze, adding sweetness without grittiness.
- Vanilla Extract
Lends aromatic complexity and a smooth, fragrant note to the glaze.
- Milk
Adjusts the consistency of the glaze, ensuring it’s thin enough to drizzle but thick enough to set beautifully.
HOW TO MAKE APPLE KRINGLE WITH VANILLA GLAZE
Get ready to roll up your sleeves and transform these pantry staples into a stunning centerpiece. This section breaks down each step, ensuring you achieve that signature flaky pastry and tender apple filling every time.
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, whisking briefly to distribute each leavening agent evenly.
3. Cut in the chilled, diced butter using a pastry cutter (or two forks) until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs; these small butter pockets will steam and create flaky layers.
4. Stir in the sour cream until the dough just begins to come together. Then, add cold water one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until you form a soft, cohesive dough without overworking it.
5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently a few times until smooth. Use a rolling pin to roll it out into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches, aiming for even thickness.
6. Brush the entire surface with the melted butter, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon evenly over the dough, leaving a small border along one long edge.
7. Arrange the apple slices in a single layer on top, ensuring each piece overlaps slightly for consistent flavor in every bite.
8. Starting from the long side, roll the dough up tightly in a jelly-roll style, keeping the seam on the bottom to seal in the filling. Carefully transfer the roll to your prepared baking sheet.
9. Shape the roll into a ring, gently pressing the ends together to seal. Use a sharp knife to make several slashes on top, which allow steam to escape and create that classic look.
10. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the kringle is golden brown and the apples are tender. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack.
11. While the pastry cools, prepare the vanilla glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to reach a drizzle-able consistency. Adjust with more milk if it’s too thick.
12. Once the kringle is cool, drizzle the vanilla glaze over the top in a loose zigzag pattern. Allow it to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR APPLE KRINGLE WITH VANILLA GLAZE
Once your Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze is perfectly baked and glazed, it’s time to think about the best ways to serve it so every bite is as delightful as the last.
- Morning Brunch Delight
Serve warm slices alongside a fresh fruit platter and strong coffee. The contrast between the flaky pastry and the bright fruit makes for a balanced brunch spread.
- Afternoon Tea Treat
Pair with a pot of Earl Grey or Chai tea. The subtle spices in the tea will complement the cinnamon in the kringle, creating a cozy mid-afternoon moment.
- Dessert Duo
Top each warm slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cool creaminess contrasts beautifully with the warm, cinnamon-kissed apples.
- Festive Gathering Centerpiece
Garnish the ring with chopped toasted nuts (like pecans or walnuts) and dried cranberries for extra color and crunch. It makes a stunning addition to holiday tables.
HOW TO STORE APPLE KRINGLE WITH VANILLA GLAZE
Proper storage ensures your Apple Kringle stays as tender and flavorful as when it first comes out of the oven. Whether you’re saving leftovers for breakfast or packing slices for a picnic, follow these tips to maintain freshness.
- Room Temperature Wrap
Once completely cool, wrap the kringle in foil or plastic wrap and store on the counter for up to 2 days. This keeps the pastry crisp on the outside and tender within.
- Refrigeration
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring slices to room temperature or warm briefly in a low oven to revive flakiness.
- Freezing Portions
Cut into individual servings, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a zip-top freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm in the oven.
- Reheating Tips
To refresh a slice, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and bake for 5–7 minutes until warm and crisp. Avoid the microwave, which can make the pastry chewy.
CONCLUSION
From the very first bite of tender apple slices swathed in a cinnamon-brown sugar swirl, to the final drizzle of glossy vanilla glaze, this Apple Kringle is a celebration of flavor and texture. Every step—from chilling your butter for those signature flaky layers to rolling the dough carefully into a ring—ensures a perfectly balanced pastry that’s both impressive and approachable. The combination of sour cream in the dough and the natural sweetness of apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp gives a gentle tang that cuts through the richness, while the melted butter brush and slashes on top lead to an irresistibly golden crust. Serving suggestions—whether paired with a piping-hot latte, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a festive sprinkle of nuts and cranberries—allow you to tailor this kringle for brunches, afternoon teas, or special holiday gatherings. And when it comes to leftovers, simple storage techniques will keep your pastry tasting fresh so you can savor slices for days to come.
Feel free to print this article or save it for later reference—you’ll want it on hand whenever the craving for something warm, flaky, and sweet strikes. Below, you’ll find a handy FAQ section to answer any questions that come up as you bake. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment sharing your tips, ask any questions if you hit a snag, or let me know what variations you experimented with. Here’s to many joyful mornings and cozy evenings filled with the comforting aroma of freshly baked Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze!
Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze
Description
Crispy and flaky layers envelop sweet apple slices and a touch of cinnamon, topped with a smooth vanilla glaze for the perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
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Cut in 1/2 cup chilled, diced butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Stir in the sour cream until the dough begins to come together. Add cold water one tablespoon at a time, as needed, to form a soft dough.
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Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it gently until smooth. Roll it out into a large rectangle, approximately 12x18 inches.
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Brush the rolled dough with 2 tablespoons of melted butter, then sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon.
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Arrange the apple slices evenly over the dough.
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Starting from the long side, roll the dough up jelly-roll style. Carefully transfer the roll to the prepared baking sheet.
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Shape the roll into a ring, sealing the ends together. Make several slashes on top with a sharp knife.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack.
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While cooling, prepare the vanilla glaze by mixing powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk in a small bowl, adjusting the consistency by adding more milk if necessary.
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Drizzle the cooled kringle with the vanilla glaze. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.
Note
- Ensure butter is well-chilled for a flaky pastry.
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier taste.
- Apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well due to their firmness.
- The kringle can be garnished with chopped nuts or dried cranberries for added texture.
- This dish makes for a delightful breakfast treat or dessert pairing with coffee or tea.
- To store leftovers, wrap in foil and keep at room temperature for up to 2 days.
