There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked pastries wafting through the kitchen. It takes me back to my childhood, where weekends were filled with sweet treats and laughter. This Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze is not just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience waiting to happen. Perfect for a quick breakfast or a charming dessert to impress your loved ones, this pastry combines tender apples with a sweet glaze that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this kringle is a fun and rewarding project that will fill your home with warmth.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze
This Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze is a game-changer for busy days. It’s easy to whip up, making it perfect for those mornings when you need a little something special. The flaky pastry envelops tender apples, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. Plus, the sweet vanilla glaze adds a touch of elegance. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, this kringle is sure to bring smiles all around.
Ingredients for Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze. Each component plays a vital role in crafting this delightful pastry. Here’s what you’ll need:
All-purpose flour: The backbone of your dough, providing structure and a tender crumb.
Sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors in the pastry.
Salt: Enhances the overall taste, making the sweet elements pop.
Instant yeast: Helps the dough rise quickly, giving it that lovely flaky texture.
Unsalted butter: Cold and cubed, it creates a rich, flaky pastry. For a twist, consider using half cream cheese for added flavor.
Sour cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang, enriching the dough.
Milk: Helps bind the ingredients together and adds tenderness.
Large egg: Acts as a binding agent, giving the dough structure and richness.
Vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with a warm, sweet aroma that complements the apples.
Medium apples: Peeled, cored, and diced, they provide the star filling. Choose your favorite variety for the best flavor.
Cinnamon: A warm spice that enhances the apple filling, making it cozy and inviting.
Brown sugar: Adds depth and a hint of caramel flavor to the apple mixture.
Chopped walnuts (optional): For a delightful crunch, these can be added to the filling.
Powdered sugar: Essential for the sweet vanilla glaze that tops the kringle.
Milk (for glaze): Helps achieve the perfect consistency for drizzling.
Vanilla extract (for glaze): A splash of this elevates the glaze, making it irresistible.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze
Creating your own Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze is a rewarding experience. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious pastry that will impress everyone. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast in a large bowl. This combination is the foundation of your kringle. Next, add the cold, cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for that flaky texture we all love.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the flour blend and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix; we want a tender dough. Turn it out onto a floured surface and knead gently for about 1-2 minutes. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. This chilling time helps the butter firm up, ensuring a flaky pastry.
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
While the dough chills, let’s prepare the apple filling. In a small bowl, combine the diced apples, cinnamon, brown sugar, and walnuts if you’re using them. This mixture is where the magic happens. The apples will soften and soak up the sweet spices as they bake, creating a delightful filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Kringle
Once your dough is chilled, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Place the apple filling down the center, leaving about 2 inches on each side. Now, cut slits along the sides of the dough, about 1 inch apart. This is where you’ll create that beautiful braid effect.
Fold the flaps over the apple filling, alternating sides as you go. This not only looks impressive but also ensures every bite is packed with flavor. It’s like wrapping a gift, but the best kind—one that you can eat!
Step 4: Bake the Kringle
Place your assembled kringle in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste. Keep an eye on it; every oven is different, and you want that perfect golden hue.
Step 5: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze
While the kringle bakes, it’s time to whip up the vanilla glaze. In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. This glaze is the cherry on top, adding sweetness and a beautiful finish to your kringle.
Step 6: Drizzle and Serve
Once the kringle is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, drizzle the vanilla glaze generously over the top. The glaze will melt slightly into the warm pastry, creating a luscious finish. Slice it up and serve it warm, perhaps with a cup of coffee or tea. Enjoy every bite of your homemade Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze!
Tips for Success
Chill your butter and dough for a flakier texture.
Use a variety of apples for a more complex flavor.
Don’t skip the resting time; it’s crucial for the dough.
Keep an eye on the kringle while baking to avoid over-browning.
Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg for added warmth.
Equipment Needed
Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes is handy; you can use any large bowl if needed.
Pastry cutter: If you don’t have one, your fingers work just as well for cutting in butter.
Rolling pin: A wine bottle can substitute in a pinch!
Baking sheet: Any flat oven-safe tray will do.
Parchment paper: Aluminum foil can be used if you’re out.
Variations
Fruit Medley: Swap out apples for pears or berries for a different flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this kringle suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the apple filling for an extra layer of warmth.
Nut-Free Version: Omit the walnuts or substitute with sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative.
Vegan Adaptation: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg for a plant-based version.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with Coffee: A warm slice of kringle goes perfectly with a rich cup of coffee.
Tea Time: Serve alongside a fragrant herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
Fresh Fruit: Add a side of fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.
Presentation: Dust with extra powdered sugar before serving for a beautiful finish.
FAQs about Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze
Can I make Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling a day in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, assemble and pop it in the oven. Freshly baked kringle is always a hit!
What type of apples work best for this recipe?
I recommend using a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination gives your Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze a delightful balance of flavors.
Can I freeze the kringle?
<pYes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked kringle. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When you're ready to enjoy it, bake it straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover kringle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just reheat slices in the oven for a few minutes to bring back that fresh-baked taste!
Can I customize the glaze?
Definitely! Feel free to add a splash of lemon juice or almond extract to the glaze for a unique twist. You can also experiment with different types of milk or even a dairy-free alternative for a personalized touch.
Final Thoughts
Creating this Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze is more than just baking; it’s about crafting memories. The process fills your kitchen with warmth and the sweet scent of apples and cinnamon, inviting everyone to gather around. Each slice is a delightful blend of flaky pastry and tender fruit, topped with a luscious glaze that brings smiles. Whether enjoyed at breakfast or as a dessert, this kringle is sure to become a cherished favorite. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the joy of baking, and share this delicious treat with those you love. Happy baking!
A delightful pastry filled with apples and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon instant yeast
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Mix well.
Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the flour mixture and stir until just combined.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth, about 1-2 minutes. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, mix the diced apples, cinnamon, brown sugar, and walnuts (if using). Set aside.
Roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Place the apple mixture down the center of the dough, leaving about 2 inches on each side.
Cut slits along the sides of the dough, about 1 inch apart, to create flaps. Fold the flaps over the apple filling, alternating sides to create a braid effect.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
While the kringle is baking, prepare the vanilla glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Once the kringle is done baking, allow it to cool for a few minutes before drizzling the glaze over the top.
Notes
For a richer flavor, substitute half of the butter with cream cheese.
For a fun twist, try adding raisins or cranberries to the apple filling.
