Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze

Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze is a delightful treat that combines flaky, buttery pastry with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples. The golden layers of dough hold a soft, juicy apple filling that…

By Elizabeth • October 12, 2025 • Reading time: 7 min

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Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze is a delightful treat that combines flaky, buttery pastry with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples. The golden layers of dough hold a soft, juicy apple filling that feels just right with each bite. Topped off with a smooth vanilla glaze, this dessert strikes a perfect balance between crisp pastry and creamy sweetness.

I love making this kringle when I want a special breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack. The smell of cinnamon and apples fills the kitchen, and it always reminds me of sunny fall mornings. One little tip I’ve picked up is to make sure the apples are thinly sliced so they cook just enough inside the pastry without making it soggy.

Serving this apple kringle warm with a cup of coffee or tea always feels like a little celebration. The vanilla glaze drizzled on top adds just the right touch of sweetness, making this treat hard to share. It’s a recipe I return to whenever I want to make friends or family smile with something baked fresh and homemade.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Active dry yeast: This is what makes the dough rise and get fluffy. If you don’t have active dry yeast, instant yeast can be used—just reduce the warm water a bit. I find proofing yeast in warm water helps make sure it’s alive and ready.

Apples: Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best for the filling because they hold their shape while baking. You can swap with Fuji or Gala if needed, but softer apples might make the dough soggy.

Butter: Softened unsalted butter gives the dough its flaky, rich texture. If you want a dairy-free version, vegan butter or margarine can work, though it might change the flavor slightly.

Vanilla glaze: Powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla make a simple, sweet topping. For a dairy-free option, use almond or oat milk. Adjust milk to get the right drizzle thickness.

How Do I Make the Dough Soft, Flaky, and Easy to Handle?

The dough is the foundation of a good kringle—soft yet sturdy enough to hold the filling and fold nicely. Here’s what helps:

• Warm liquids: Use warmed milk and water (not hot!) to activate the yeast without killing it.
• Proper kneading: Knead the dough until smooth and elastic—about 8-10 minutes. You’ll feel it change texture from sticky to soft and stretchy.
• Time to rise: Let the dough double in size in a warm spot. This gives lightness and helps develop flavor.
• Softened butter for layering: Spread the butter evenly before adding filling to get those flaky layers when baked.
• Handle with care: Roll and fold gently so the dough doesn’t tear and the layers stay intact.

Following these tips makes it easier to shape the kringle and get that beautiful golden, flaky crust.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls – for mixing dough and apple filling easily without making a mess.
• Rolling pin – helps you roll the dough evenly into a rectangle for layering.
• Sharp knife – perfect for making the braided slits without tearing the dough.
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper – prevents sticking and makes cleanup simple.
• Pastry brush – great for brushing the egg wash evenly on top for a golden finish.
• Whisk – useful for mixing the vanilla glaze until smooth and lump-free.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap apples for pears or peaches in warmer months for a fresh fruit twist that bakes well.
• Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a bit of crunch and nutty flavor.
• Mix in raisins or dried cranberries with the apples for extra sweetness and texture.
• Try a cream cheese spread under the apple filling for a richer, tangy balance to the sweet glaze.

How to Make Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 1/2 cup milk, warmed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Apple Filling:

• 3 cups peeled and thinly sliced apples (firm types like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Brushing:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp coarse or sanding sugar (optional)

For the Vanilla Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 2-3 tbsp milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 2 hours total: 15 minutes prepping, 1 to 1.5 hours for dough rising, 30 minutes for second rise after shaping, and 40-45 minutes baking time. Add a little extra time for cooling and glazing.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Make the Dough:

Start by dissolving the yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until you see it get foamy—that means the yeast is active. Then, in a large bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, salt, beaten egg, the yeast mixture, and 1 cup flour. Stir well.

Slowly add the remaining flour and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead it on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes, till soft and elastic.

Put the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Apple Filling:

While dough rises, toss sliced apples with both sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, lemon juice, and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Set this aside to let the flavors combine.

3. Shape the Kringle:

After the dough has risen, gently punch it down and roll it on a floured surface into a 12 by 18 inch rectangle.

Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the apple filling on top spreading it out evenly.

Roll the dough tightly starting from a long edge, forming a log.

Shape the log into a horseshoe or oval, and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Make diagonal cuts about 2 inches apart along the outer edge—be careful to cut through the dough but not all the way through the filling. Fold the strips alternately over the filling, creating a braided look.

Cover the shaped kringle and let it rise for 30 minutes, while you preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

4. Bake and Glaze:

Brush the kringle with beaten egg for a glossy finish and sprinkle with coarse sugar if you like extra crunch.

Bake 40-45 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

While baking, whisk the vanilla glaze ingredients until smooth. Add milk slowly until the glaze is thick but pourable.

Let the kringle cool 15 minutes, then drizzle with the glaze.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Slice the kringle warm or cool. Enjoy this lovely flaky pastry bursting with cinnamon apples and topped with sweet vanilla glaze. Perfect with coffee or a cozy teatime!

Can I Use Frozen Apples for the Filling?

Yes, you can use frozen apples, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that can make the dough soggy. Pat them dry with paper towels before mixing with the sugar and spices.

How Should I Store Leftover Kringle?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Can I Make the Dough in Advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it after the first rise. Just bring it to room temperature and let it rise a bit more before shaping the next day.

What Can I Substitute for Butter in the Dough?

You can use a dairy-free margarine or vegan butter substitute if needed, but flavors and texture might vary slightly. Make sure the substitute is suitable for baking to maintain the flaky layers.