Cozy Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze

Name: Cozy Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 3 large apples, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/4 cup cold water; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tbsp milk; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Fill your home with the warm, inviting scent of fresh apples and cinnamon with this delightful Cozy Apple Kringle recipe. This flaky pastry, filled with a sweet apple filling and drizzled with creamy vanilla glaze, is the perfect treat to share during the holiday season. Ideal for Christmas gatherings or cozy winter nights, this kringle is sure to become a family favorite.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-10-27T05:59:38.945Z

The Cozy Apple Kringle is a delightful pastry that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. As the aroma fills your home, it invites everyone to indulge in its sweet, cinnamon-spiced goodness.

The Magic of Apples in Baking

Apples are the quintessential fruit of autumn and winter, known for their versatility in both sweet and savory dishes. When baked, they transform into a tender, juicy delight that complements the flaky texture of pastries perfectly. This Cozy Apple Kringle showcases the natural sweetness of apples, enhanced by a sprinkle of cinnamon and a hint of lemon juice that brings out their flavor. Ideal for cozy gatherings, this dish not only warms the stomach but also evokes fond memories of family traditions during the holiday season.

In this kringle, you’ll notice that the diced apples soften beautifully during baking, creating a luscious filling that oozes out with each bite. The combination of sugar and cinnamon caramelizes, forming a delicious glaze that coats the apple pieces, ensuring that every slice is brimming with flavor. The delightful interplay of textures—crisp pastry and tender apple—makes it an irresistible charm on any dessert table.

Perfecting Your Pastry Skills

Mastering pastry can seem daunting, but this Cozy Apple Kringle recipe simplifies the process without compromising on taste. The key to achieving that coveted flaky texture lies in handling the butter correctly. When incorporated into the flour, the cold butter forms small flakes that create layers during baking. Ensure that your butter and water are cold, as this helps to keep the dough from becoming too warm, which would result in a denser pastry.

Don’t hesitate to let your dough rest in the refrigerator. This crucial step allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out and shape. You can also experiment with different types of flour or even add spices to your dough for a unique twist. With practice, you'll find that making pastry becomes an enjoyable and rewarding experience, allowing you to impress family and friends with your baking prowess.

Serving and Enjoying Your Kringle

Once your Cozy Apple Kringle has cooled and you've drizzled it with the delicious vanilla glaze, it’s time to serve! This pastry can be sliced into generous portions, making it perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings, brunches, or cozy family dinners. Pair it with a warm cup of cider, coffee, or tea to enhance the comforting flavors of the apple and cinnamon. Your guests will adore the inviting aroma and the charming look of this pastry on the table.

This kringle is not just a treat; it’s also an experience to savor. The joy of sharing delicious food is amplified during the holiday season, and this kringle is sure to bring people together, creating lasting memories. Consider storing any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two, or refrigerate to prolong freshness. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, the Cozy Apple Kringle is a delightful indulgence that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

For the Apple Filling

3 large apples, peeled and diced
1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Pastry

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/4 cup sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/4 cup cold water

For the Vanilla Glaze

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

Mix the apple filling ingredients in a bowl and set aside while you prepare the pastry.

Instructions

Prepare the Pastry

In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Add cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in cold water until dough forms. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Make the Apple Filling

In a medium bowl, combine diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Set aside.

Assemble the Kringle

Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread the apple filling down the center, then fold the edges over to seal. Transfer to a baking sheet.

Bake the Kringle

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool.

Make the Vanilla Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled kringle before serving.

Let the kringle sit for a few minutes before slicing and enjoying!

Tips for Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Cozy Apple Kringle, you may have some leftovers that need to be stored. To keep your kringle fresh, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to store it for longer, consider refrigerating it, which will allow it to last up to a week. However, be aware that refrigeration can slightly alter the texture of the pastry, so it's best enjoyed fresh.

If you have a significant amount left or want to meal prep for upcoming events, you can also freeze your kringle. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, ensuring no air pockets remain. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or let it sit at room temperature for a couple of hours before reheating in the oven.

Customizing Your Kringle

One of the best things about baking is the ability to customize recipes to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For this Cozy Apple Kringle, feel free to experiment with different types of apples for varying levels of sweetness and tartness. Varieties like Granny Smith add a tangy contrast, while Honeycrisp or Fuji apples offer a sweeter profile. You can also mix in additional spices such as nutmeg or allspice to elevate the flavor profile.

For those seeking a healthier version, consider substituting some of the sugar in the filling with maple syrup or honey. You can also add nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and depth of flavor. Don’t shy away from adding dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a festive twist!

The Best Occasions for Cozy Apple Kringle

The Cozy Apple Kringle is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on various occasions. It's an excellent addition to breakfast or brunch tables, adding a touch of indulgence alongside your morning coffee or tea. Its warm, inviting aroma creates a cozy atmosphere, making it a lovely option for family gatherings or holiday breakfasts.

Additionally, this kringle shines at festive events such as Christmas parties or New Year’s celebrations. It's perfect for potlucks, ensuring you arrive with a dessert that's not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. Your friends and family will appreciate this thoughtful treat, and it’s a wonderful way to spread holiday cheer!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this kringle in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the kringle a day ahead and bake it fresh when you're ready to serve!

→ What can I substitute for apples?

Pears or peaches can also be used as a delicious alternative!