Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Wisconsin Apple Kringle is a delightful pastry that perfectly represents the heart of the Midwest. This flaky and tender kringle is stuffed with sweet, spiced apples, making it a wonderful treat for breakfast, dessert, or any family gathering. Its unique shape and delicious flavor will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Difficulty Level: Medium

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 290
• Protein: 5g per serving
• Carbohydrates: 40g per serving
• Fat: 12g per serving
• Fiber: 2g per serving
• Sugar: 10g per serving
• Sodium: 150mg per serving

Why Make This Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Wisconsin Apple Kringle is not just a dessert—it’s a celebration of flavors and textures! The buttery dough pairs beautifully with the warm, cinnamon-spiced apples, creating a dish that’s as comforting as a hug from an old friend. It’s a perfect way to use fresh apples during the fall or any time of year, and its enticing aroma will fill your kitchen, making everyone eager to take a bite. Plus, it’s a wonderful addition to holiday tables, coffee mornings, or as an afternoon snack with tea!

How to Make Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups peeled and diced apples
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions:

• Step 1: Dissolve the Yeast

  In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This activates the yeast, ensuring a lovely rise in your dough.

• Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

  In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. This mixture is the base for a beautifully fluffy kringle.

• Step 3: Combine Ingredients

  Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms, creating a soft and supple texture.

• Step 4: Knead the Dough

  Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth, about 5 minutes. This step develops the gluten, giving your kringle its delightful chewiness.

• Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

  Place the dough in a greased bowl and let it rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour. This is where the magic happens as air bubbles form, making the dough airy.

• Step 6: Prepare the Filling

  While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by mixing diced apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and optional walnuts. The mixture should be fragrant and well combined.

• Step 7: Preheat the Oven

  Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A well-heated oven helps in achieving that perfect golden crust.

• Step 8: Roll Out the Dough

  Roll out the dough into a rectangle and spread the apple mixture down the center, leaving edges clean for folding. Aim for an even distribution so every bite has apple goodness.

• Step 9: Fold and Shape

  Fold the sides of the dough over the filling, seal the edges, and place it on a baking sheet. The traditional kringle shape looks beautiful and keeps the filling inside.

• Step 10: Bake the Kringle

  Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. The kitchen will smell heavenly as the kringle bakes!

• Step 11: Dust and Serve

  Allow to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving. This adds a lovely touch of sweetness and presentation.

How to Serve Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Serve this delicious kringle warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning treat, or serve it as a dessert during family gatherings. It also tastes splendid with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a delightful contrast.

How to Store Wisconsin Apple Kringle

Store leftover kringle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze slices, wrapped tightly in plastic, for up to 2 months. Just thaw and reheat in the oven for a few minutes to enjoy its flaky texture again.

Expert Tips for Perfect Wisconsin Apple Kringle

• Make sure your milk is warm but not hot to ensure yeast activation; too much heat can kill the yeast.
• Knead the dough thoroughly for a smooth texture—it should be soft and elastic.
• Experiment with different types of apples; Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or even a tart variety can bring unique flavors to the filling.
• Feel free to add raisins or dried cranberries for extra flavor in the filling.

Delicious Variations

• Berry Kringle: Substitute apples for mixed berries for a bright, juicy twist.
• Cream Cheese Filling: Add a cream cheese layer beneath the apple filling for a rich, velvety texture.
• Spiced Pumpkin Kringle: Replace apples with spiced pumpkin puree for a festive fall variation.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use gluten-free flour?
  Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but the texture may differ slightly.

• What type of apples are best for this recipe?
  Tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet varieties such as Fuji or Honeycrisp work wonderfully.

• Can I make the dough ahead of time?
  Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before baking.

• What can I use instead of walnuts?
  Pecans are a great alternative, or you can skip nuts altogether for a nut-free version.

• How can I tell when the kringle is done baking?
  The kringle should be golden brown on top, and when you tap the bottom, it should sound hollow.

Conclusion

Wisconsin Apple Kringle is a delightful baked treat that combines the flavors of spiced apples and buttery dough perfectly. It’s an excellent way to bring the taste of the Midwest into your home. Whether enjoyed with a morning cup of coffee or served as a stunning dessert, this kringle is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and give this recipe a try—you’ll be happy you did!