Cozy Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze – A Perfect Fall Pastry

Few desserts capture the cozy spirit of autumn like a warm, freshly baked pastry. The combination of buttery dough, spiced apples, and a silky vanilla glaze creates a dessert that is comforting, festive, and irresistible. One pastry that embodies this seasonal charm is the Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze.

This recipe has Scandinavian origins, where kringle pastries are cherished for their beautiful shape, flaky texture, and rich fillings. In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know to make your own Cozy Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze at home, from step-by-step instructions to storage, variations, and expert baking tips.

If you love comforting fall desserts, be sure to explore more recipes on Nevin Recipes a hub for seasonal baking inspiration.

What Is Apple Kringle?

Apple Kringle is a traditional pastry with Danish roots, often shaped into an oval or braided form. The hallmark of kringle is its flaky pastry dough layered with rich fillings. In this case, the filling is made of tender, spiced apples that perfectly balance tartness and sweetness. Once baked, the pastry is drizzled with a vanilla glaze that adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.

Unlike pies or tarts, kringle offers a unique braided presentation that looks impressive on a holiday table but is surprisingly easy to create once you know the technique.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Flaky and Buttery – Cold butter in the dough ensures tender, layered pastry.
2. Seasonal Apple Flavor – Fresh apples combined with cinnamon and nutmeg bring the essence of fall.
3. Beautiful Presentation – A braided kringle looks bakery-quality with minimal effort.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly – Dough and filling can be prepared in advance.
5. Crowd-Pleasing – Perfect for gatherings, Thanksgiving, or cozy weekends at home.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 egg yolk
• ¼ cup ice water

For the Apple Filling

• 3 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

For the Vanilla Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

• Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
• Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Add sour cream, egg yolk, and ice water gradually until dough comes together.
• Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

• Peel, core, and dice apples.
• Melt butter in a pan, then add apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
• Cook until apples soften, then stir in flour to thicken.
• Cool filling completely before use.

Step 3: Assemble the Kringle

• Roll dough into a large rectangle.
• Spread apple filling down the center third.
• Cut diagonal strips on each side of dough and fold them over to create a braid.

Step 4: Bake

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Transfer kringle to parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Bake 25–30 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Add Vanilla Glaze

• Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
• Drizzle glaze over warm kringle.
• Slice and serve.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Kringle

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for balance.
• Chill the dough before rolling for flakier layers.
• Cool filling completely to prevent soggy pastry.
• Don’t overfill or it may leak while baking.
• Drizzle glaze while warm for a glossy finish.

Flavor Variations

• Caramel Apple Kringle – Add caramel sauce before braiding.
• Apple-Pecan Kringle – Sprinkle chopped pecans over the filling.
• Apple-Cream Cheese Kringle – Spread sweetened cream cheese under the apples.
• Mini Kringles – Make smaller versions for individual servings.

How to Serve

• Serve warm slices with coffee or tea.
• Pair with vanilla ice cream for dessert.
• Add to a holiday brunch platter for a festive centerpiece.

Storage and Freezing

• Room Temperature: Store covered up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Lasts up to 5 days in an airtight container.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze unglazed kringle for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before glazing.

Nutritional Snapshot (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 350
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why Apple Kringle Is Perfect for Fall

The flavors of spiced apples, flaky dough, and vanilla glaze make Apple Kringle a dessert that feels both nostalgic and festive. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas mornings, or any fall weekend when you want to fill your home with cozy aromas.

For more seasonal inspiration, check out Nevin Recipes. If you love collecting ideas visually, save and share this recipe on Pinterest.

Conclusion

The Cozy Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze is everything you want in a fall dessert: warm, flaky, buttery, and filled with spiced apples. With its stunning braid, rich flavors, and simple glaze, it’s a pastry that brings comfort to every occasion.

Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a family brunch, or just to enjoy a cozy weekend at home, this apple kringle recipe will surely impress.

Embrace the charm of fall, and bake this delicious Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze today.