As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of apples mingling with warm cinnamon transported me straight to a quaint café in Denmark. That’s the magic of making Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze—this traditional Danish pastry is not just a recipe; it’s an experience. This delightful flaky treat is perfect for breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or even dessert, making it an incredibly versatile choice for any occasion. Plus, with its simple preparation and quick bake time, you can whip it up anytime the craving strikes. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a slice all to yourself, I promise this apple dessert will charm its way into your heart. Are you ready to bake this crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress?

Why Try This Apple Kringle?
Simplicity at its Best: Crafting this flaky pastry requires just a few easy steps, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
Delightfully Versatile: Whether served warm for breakfast or chilled as dessert, the Apple Kringle shines in any setting.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of tart apples, warm cinnamon, and a creamy vanilla glaze tantalizes the taste buds, turning every bite into a delightful experience.
Quick Bake Time: Ready in just under an hour, this recipe is ideal for satisfying your sweet cravings without spending all day in the kitchen!
Unique Variations: Explore your creativity by substituting fruit or adding nuts. You might even love it with a cream cheese filling—imagine the delicious possibilities!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, this show-stopping pastry will leave your friends and family begging for the recipe. Pair it with a cup of coffee or warm spiced beverages for a cozy treat! Want more delicious apple flavors? Try these Apple Cinnamon Blondies or indulge in some Apple Cinnamon Cookies.
Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze Ingredients
For the Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the dough; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; no substitutes needed.
• Sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough; granulated or coconut sugar can be used.
• Unsalted Butter – Creates a flaky texture; ensure it’s chilled and cubed for best results.
• Cold Water – Binds the dough; should be icy cold to maintain flakiness.
For the Apple Filling
• Apples – The main filling; using a tart variety like Granny Smith balances the sweetness beautifully.
• Brown Sugar – Adds rich sweetness and depth to the apple filling; can also use coconut sugar.
• Cinnamon – Provides warmth and spice to the filling; substitute with nutmeg for a different flavor.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the apple flavor; no substitutes needed.
• Cornstarch – Thickens the apple mixture; tapioca flour can also be used as an alternative.
For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Essential for the glaze; no substitutes needed.
• Milk – Helps achieve the right consistency; use almond milk for a dairy-free version.
• Vanilla Extract – Flavors the glaze; almond extract can be a substitute if preferred.
Now you’re all set to gather your ingredients and create this delightful Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze! Enjoy the magical aromas that will fill your kitchen as you bake!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze
Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar, stirring well to incorporate the dry ingredients. Dice the chilled butter into small cubes and cut it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually mix in cold water until just combined, being careful not to overwork the dough. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Step 2: Make Filling
While the dough chills, prepare your apple filling. Peel, core, and dice your chosen tart apples into small pieces, placing them in a separate mixing bowl. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch to the apples, stirring until everything is evenly coated. Set this mixture aside while the flavors meld together and the juices start to combine, creating a sweet and spiced filling for your Apple Kringle.
Step 3: Roll Out Dough
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has chilled, lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough into a rectangle, approximately 12 inches by 18 inches. Aim for a uniform thickness of about 1/4 inch. Carefully transfer the rolled dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring it doesn’t tear to keep your Apple Kringle beautifully intact.
Step 4: Assemble Kringle
Spoon the apple filling down the center of the rolled-out dough, creating a generous line that runs the length of the rectangle. On each side, make 1-inch cuts about 3 inches deep at a slight diagonal, creating flaps you will fold. Start folding the flaps over the filling in a braiding pattern, sealing the ends to prevent any apple filling from escaping during baking.
Step 5: Bake
Place your assembled Apple Kringle in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the pastry turns a lovely golden brown. Keep an eye on the color during the last few minutes of baking to avoid over-browning. Once baked, remove the pastry from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before glazing.
Step 6: Prepare Glaze
In a mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency for your glaze. Adjust the amount of milk as needed to create your desired thickness. This creamy mixture will enhance the sweetness of your Apple Kringle, so ensure it’s just right for drizzling.
Step 7: Glaze Kringle
Once the Apple Kringle has cooled for about 10 minutes, drizzle the prepared vanilla glaze evenly over the top using a spoon or a small whisk. Allow the glaze to set for a few moments as it cools and firms up on your warm pastry. Slice it into sections and prepare to delight in this beautiful Danish treat, ready for sharing!

How to Store and Freeze Apple Kringle
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Room Temperature: Store the Apple Kringle at room temperature for up to 2 days; keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness.
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Fridge: If you plan to enjoy it later, refrigerate the kringle for up to a week, wrapping it securely to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors.
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Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled Apple Kringle in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.
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Reheating: For best results, reheat slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flaky pastry to regain its delightful texture.
Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze Variations
Feel free to explore endless possibilities with this delightful recipe and make it your own!
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Pears Instead of Apples: Swap out apples for ripe pears for a sweeter, softer filling that’s equally delicious.
The combination of pears and cinnamon creates a fragrant aroma that’s simply irresistible. -
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for delightful texture and a nutty flavor boost.
The wonderful crunch amplifies the overall experience, making each bite an adventure. -
Berry Bliss: For a fresh twist, substitute the apple filling with mixed berries like blueberries or raspberries.
These sweet-tart flavors create a lively contrast with the creamy vanilla glaze, perfect for summertime treats. -
Cream Cheese Richness: Incorporate a layer of softened cream cheese mixed with a bit of sugar into the filling for extra creaminess.
This adds a luxurious richness that complements the apple perfectly, making it feel indulgent and special. -
Gluten-Free Delight: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy a gluten-free version without compromising taste.
Your gluten-sensitive friends will appreciate this delicious alternative that’s simply made with love. -
Zesty Additions: Add some orange zest to the apple mixture for a citrusy brightness that elevates the flavor profile.
This little twist brings a refreshing scent and taste, perfect for brightening up a cozy dessert. -
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce on top before serving for decadence that pairs beautifully with the glaze.
This luscious addition transforms your Apple Kringle into a true confectionery masterpiece. -
Spicy Kick: Enhance the pie spice with a dash of ginger or a pinch of cayenne for a warm, spicy twist.
It gives your pastry an exciting kick that perfectly complements the sweet apple and rich glaze.
Whichever variation you choose, this Apple Kringle is sure to leave you in a sweet state of mind. For more comforting apple inspiration, be sure to check out my delicious Apple Zucchini Bread or the classic Apple Crisp Warm. Happy baking!
What to Serve with Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze
Transport your taste buds to a cozy café with comforting pairings that elevate this delightful treat into a full meal experience.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast, complimenting the sweetness of the apple filling.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream brings a luxurious touch to each slice and balances the rich vanilla glaze.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts into the warm kringle, creating an indulgent dessert that’s pure bliss.
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Coffee or Espresso: The bitter notes of coffee enhance the sweet flavors, making it a perfect companion for your Apple Kringle.
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Herbal Tea: Try pairing with a soothing herbal tea like chamomile or mint for a calming afternoon treat that complements the warm spices.
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Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: Rich and decadent, a cup of cinnamon hot chocolate amplifies the delightful spices in the kringle for a cozy experience.
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Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses, such as brie or goat cheese, offers a savory balance, making your dessert table feel gourmet.
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Nutty Granola: A crunchy side of nutty granola adds exciting texture and wholesome flavors, perfect for a delightful breakfast option.
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Warm Spiced Mulled Cider: A comforting drink option that brings warmth and holiday spirit, pairing perfectly with the fruity notes of the kringle.
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix it according to the instructions, wrap it tightly in plastic, and refrigerate. The apple filling can also be made up to 3 days ahead—combine all filling ingredients, store it in an airtight container, and keep it in the fridge to ensure freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy your beautiful kringle, roll out the chilled dough, assemble with the prepped filling, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a delightful, homemade treat with minimal effort during your busy week!
Expert Tips for Perfect Apple Kringle
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Keep Ingredients Cold: Always start with chilled butter and cold water to ensure the dough remains flaky. Warm ingredients will lead to a dense pastry.
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Don’t Rush the Dough: Overworking the dough can make it tough. Mix until just combined for the best results in your Apple Kringle.
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Choose the Right Apples: Opt for tart varieties like Granny Smith. They balance the sweetness and prevent the filling from becoming too mushy.
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Watch Your Oven: Temperature can vary, so keep an eye on baking to avoid over-browning. The perfect Apple Kringle should be golden, not dark brown.
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Glaze Just Right: Allow the Kringle to cool slightly before drizzling the glaze, which prevents it from melting away and ensures a beautiful finish.
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Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to try new fillings such as pears or mixed berries to shake things up. Add nuts for extra texture and flavor surprise!

Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! For the most delightful filling, I recommend using tart varieties like Granny Smith apples. They provide the perfect balance of sweetness and prevent the filling from becoming too mushy during baking, ensuring each bite is wonderfully flavorful.
How should I store leftover Apple Kringle?
You can keep your Apple Kringle at room temperature for up to 2 days if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. If you plan to enjoy it later, place it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to a week. Just be sure to secure it well to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors around it!
Can I freeze Apple Kringle?
Certainly! To freeze your Apple Kringle, first allow it to cool completely. Then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This way, it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before warming it back up.
What can I do if my dough feels tough?
The most common reason for tough dough is overworking it. Make sure to mix the ingredients until just combined, and always keep your butter and water cold. If it already feels tough, relax your dough by wrapping it in plastic and letting it chill in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to help it firm up before rolling it out.
Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
Very much so! You can easily substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend includes xanthan gum or another binding agent to mimic the texture of traditional flour. I often have great success using a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute for this Apple Kringle recipe!
Can pets safely eat any part of the Apple Kringle?
It’s best to keep your Apple Kringle away from pets, especially because of the sugar and butter content. However, the apples themselves—especially without added sugar—are usually safe in moderation. Always consult your veterinarian before sharing human food with your furry friends!

Delicious Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar. Dice the chilled butter into small cubes and cut it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually mix in cold water until just combined. Wrap the dough and chill for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the apple filling by peeling, coring, and dicing apples. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch to the apples, stirring to coat evenly. Set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). After chilling, roll out the dough into a rectangle, about 12 inches by 18 inches, to 1/4 inch thickness. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Spoon the apple filling down the center of the rolled dough and make 1-inch cuts on each side. Fold the flaps over the filling in a braiding pattern, sealing the ends.
- Bake the assembled kringle for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool for about 10 minutes.
- Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl to create the glaze. Adjust milk for desired consistency.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled kringle and allow it to set before slicing.

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