When I want to impress guests with a bakery-style pastry made at home, I reach for this apple kringle with vanilla glaze. It’s flaky, buttery, and filled with sweet cinnamon apples, then topped with a smooth vanilla glaze. Perfect for holiday mornings, cozy brunches, or anytime you want something special without too much fuss.
Quick Facts
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Prep time: 20 minutes
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Cooking time: 30 minutes
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Total time: 50 minutes
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Servings: 8–10
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this apple kringle because it looks fancy but is surprisingly simple to make, especially with store-bought puff pastry. The warm spiced apples paired with the buttery, flaky pastry create the perfect bite. The vanilla glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness. It’s a show-stopping treat that tastes like it came from a specialty bakery.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Apple Filling
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3 medium apples, peeled and diced
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2 tablespoons brown sugar
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1 teaspoon cinnamon
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1 tablespoon butter
For the Pastry
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1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
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1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For the Vanilla Glaze
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1 cup powdered sugar
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2–3 tablespoons milk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling
I melt butter in a skillet over medium heat, then add the diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. I cook for about 5 minutes until the apples soften slightly. Then I set them aside to cool.
Step 2: Assemble the Kringle
I roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface into a rectangle. I spread the apple filling down the center of the pastry, leaving space on the sides. Then I fold the sides over the filling, overlapping slightly, and pinch the ends to seal. I shape it into an oval ring on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Bake
I brush the pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish. Then I bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until it’s puffed and golden brown.
Step 4: Make the Glaze and Serve
While the kringle cools slightly, I whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. I drizzle the glaze generously over the warm pastry and let it set before slicing.
Tips for Customization
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Use cherry, blueberry, or peach pie filling for variety.
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Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple filling for crunch.
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Mix in a little cream cheese with the apples for extra richness.
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Sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking for texture.
Serving Suggestions
I love serving apple kringle warm with a cup of coffee or hot tea. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. You can also serve it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. It makes a beautiful centerpiece for holiday gatherings.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
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Calories: about 280
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Protein: 3 g
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Fat: 12 g
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Carbohydrates: 40 g
FAQs About Apple Kringle
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, you can assemble it the night before and refrigerate. Just brush with egg wash and bake fresh in the morning.
Can I use homemade pastry?
Absolutely! Traditional kringle uses laminated dough, but puff pastry is a great shortcut that still delivers wonderful flaky layers.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
This apple kringle with vanilla glaze is flaky, sweet, and absolutely irresistible. It’s the kind of pastry that makes any morning feel special and brings smiles to everyone at the table.
