There is something incredibly comforting about baking a homemade pastry filled with warm apples and finished with a sweet vanilla glaze. I love how this apple kringle feels both cozy and elegant at the same time. Whether I make it for a relaxed breakfast or as a dessert to share, it always fills my kitchen with a wonderful aroma and brings a sense of warmth to the table. Apple Kringle With Vanilla Glaze

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to make. The dough is soft and flaky, the apple filling is perfectly spiced, and the vanilla glaze ties everything together beautifully. I also love how versatile it is, since it works just as well for brunch as it does for dessert. Every slice feels special without requiring complicated steps.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

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
2 tablespoons milk (for the glaze)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the glaze)

Directions

I start by mixing the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast in a large bowl. I add the cold butter and work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

In another bowl, I whisk together the sour cream, milk, egg, and vanilla extract. I pour this into the flour mixture and gently stir until just combined. I knead the dough lightly for 1 to 2 minutes, wrap it, and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to help create a flaky texture.

While the dough chills, I mix the diced apples, cinnamon, brown sugar, and walnuts if I’m using them. Once the dough is ready, I roll it into a rectangle and place the apple filling down the center. I cut slits along both sides and fold them over the filling to form a braided shape.

I bake the kringle in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, until it turns golden brown. While it bakes, I whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make a smooth glaze. After the kringle cools slightly, I drizzle the glaze over the top before slicing.

Servings And Timing

I usually slice this kringle into 8 servings.
Preparation time is about 1 hour, mostly for chilling the dough.
Baking time is 25 to 30 minutes.
Total time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes replace the apples with pears or mixed berries for a different flavor. When I want extra warmth, I add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the filling. If I need a nut-free version, I simply leave out the walnuts. For a richer dough, I occasionally substitute part of the butter with cream cheese.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover kringle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, I keep it in the refrigerator for up to one week. When reheating, I warm slices in the oven for a few minutes to restore the flaky texture.

FAQs

Can I Prepare This Kringle In Advance?

I often make the dough and filling a day ahead and keep them refrigerated. I assemble and bake it fresh when ready.

What Type Of Apples Work Best?

I like using a mix of sweet and tart apples to create balanced flavor and texture.

Can I Freeze The Kringle?

I freeze it unbaked by wrapping it tightly. When baking from frozen, I add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How Do I Adjust The Glaze Consistency?

I add milk slowly to the powdered sugar until the glaze reaches the thickness I prefer.

Can I Change The Glaze Flavor?

I sometimes add a splash of lemon juice or almond extract to give the glaze a slightly different taste.

Conclusion

This apple kringle with vanilla glaze is one of those recipes I come back to again and again. I love the process of shaping the dough, the comforting smell while it bakes, and the satisfaction of slicing into a beautifully glazed pastry. It is simple, comforting, and always a joy to share.