Name: Apple Cinnamon Kringle with Vanilla Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1/4 cup cold water; 3 medium-sized apples, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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There is nothing quite as comforting and utterly delicious as a warm, flaky pastry bursting with sweet, spiced apples and finished with a luscious vanilla glaze. The Apple Cinnamon Kringle with Vanilla Glaze Recipe is a delightful treat that combines tender layers of buttery dough with a cinnamon-kissed apple filling, all wrapped up in a beautiful braided design. Whether you’re serving it as a special breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a charming dessert, this Kringle never fails to impress and satisfy those cozy cravings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round dough ring with a small hole in the middle sits on a sheet of baking paper on a black baking tray. The dough is light beige with small dark specks scattered all over. The surface of the dough looks smooth and slightly stretched with gentle folds near the seam on the top side. The tray is placed on a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple but incredibly important for building the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors in your Apple Cinnamon Kringle. Each one plays a role—from the flaky dough to the sweet and tender apple filling and the smooth, aromatic glaze that finishes it all off.

2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the dough, providing structure and tenderness.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the dough’s flavor, balancing the sweetness.
1 tablespoon sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to the dough itself.
1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed: Creates flaky layers and richness in the pastry.
1/4 cup cold water: Brings the dough together without melting the butter.
3 medium-sized apples, peeled and diced: The star of the filling, tender and juicy once baked.
1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds deep caramel-like sweetness to the apples.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: Provides warm, inviting spice that pairs perfectly with apples.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the filling and keeps apples from browning.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the filling so it’s just right.
1 cup powdered sugar: For the vanilla glaze’s sweet and silky finish.
2 tablespoons milk: Helps create the glaze’s smooth texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the glaze with comforting vanilla aroma and flavor.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Kringle with Vanilla Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing the all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Then, cut in the chilled butter cubes until the texture resembles coarse crumbs—this is the secret to flaky layers. Add the cold water gradually, mixing gently just until the dough comes together. Wrap it in plastic and let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes so it firms up for easier handling.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

While the dough chills, combine the diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch in a separate bowl. This mixture will create the warm and tender filling that perfectly complements the delicate pastry.

Step 3: Roll and Assemble

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a neat rectangle. Transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon the apple filling down the center lengthwise, leaving space on both sides.

Step 4: Create the Braided Effect

Cut diagonal slits about 1 inch apart on each side of the dough’s rectangle, opposite the apple filling. Gently fold the strips over the filling, alternating sides to create a beautiful braid effect. Be sure to pinch the ends to seal the filling inside neatly.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake your Kringle for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the dough turns a gorgeous golden brown and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Remove it and allow to cool on the tray for about 10 minutes before glazing.

Step 6: Whisk the Vanilla Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until silky smooth. This simple vanilla glaze adds a sweet, creamy touch that beautifully complements the cinnamon-spiced apples.

Step 7: Drizzle and Set

Drizzle the glaze generously over the slightly cooled Kringle. Let the glaze set for a few minutes so it forms that glossy, irresistible finish. Now your Apple Cinnamon Kringle with Vanilla Glaze Recipe is ready to slice and share!

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Kringle with Vanilla Glaze Recipe

A round twisted pastry ring with many layers twisted together, showing a golden brown, shiny baked top with cinnamon spices scattered on it, covered in white icing drizzles that add a glossy texture. The pastry sits on a dark wooden round board, with an apple and cinnamon sticks blurred in the background on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Want to add an extra special touch? Sprinkle some chopped toasted pecans or slivered almonds on top of the glaze for added crunch and nutty flavor. A dusting of cinnamon powder or a few fresh apple slices can add a fresh visual appeal as well.

Side Dishes

This Kringle shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee or a creamy chai latte. For an extra indulgent brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs or fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re bringing this to a gathering or gift-giving, consider placing the Kringle on a rustic wooden board adorned with apple slices and cinnamon sticks. Cutting it into bite-sized squares makes for perfect finger food. It also makes a pretty centerpiece when served warm on a platter with a bowl of extra vanilla glaze for dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep any leftover Kringle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. After that, it’s best to refrigerate it to maintain freshness, though the pastry may lose a bit of its crispness.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the cooled Kringle tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It will keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

Warm leftover slices in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes to bring back the flaky crispness and soften the apples. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the pastry soggy.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith work best for balance, you can mix in sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp to add layers of flavor and texture to your filling.

Is it possible to make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough up to two days in advance. Keep it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator to prevent it from drying out. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling out.

Can I substitute the vanilla glaze with another topping?

Definitely. While the vanilla glaze is classic and delicious, you could also top the Kringle with a simple dusting of powdered sugar or a cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist.

What if I don’t have cornstarch for the filling?

You can substitute cornstarch with an equal amount of all-purpose flour or arrowroot powder to thicken the apple mixture. Just be aware that cornstarch gives the clearest, most tender finish.

How do I keep the Kringle from getting soggy in the center?

Make sure not to overfill the apple mixture and to seal the braided edges well to prevent juices from leaking out. Also, let the Kringle cool on a rack so air circulates underneath, helping maintain flakiness.

Final Thoughts

Making this Apple Cinnamon Kringle with Vanilla Glaze Recipe feels like wrapping yourself in a warm hug from the inside. Its tender, buttery layers bursting with warmly spiced apples and topped with sweet vanilla glaze make it an unforgettable treat. I truly encourage you to give this beautiful recipe a try—it’s perfect for celebrating cozy mornings or impressing your loved ones with a homemade pastry masterpiece!