Almond Kringle is a delightful Scandinavian pastry that combines layers of buttery, flaky dough with a rich, nutty almond filling, all topped with a sweet, glossy icing. With its crisp exterior and tender inside, every bite is a melt-in-your-mouth experience. This pastry is traditionally enjoyed with a warm cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect morning indulgence or afternoon treat. This homemade version of Almond Kringle is simple yet decadent, with an easy-to-follow method that requires no yeast. Whether served for brunch, as a dessert, or gifted to a friend, this pastry is sure to impress. Shape it into a classic horseshoe, oval, or even a simple log no matter the form, it’s always delicious!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons water
For the Filling:
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
For the Icing:
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
Directions:
- Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. In a bowl, combine flour and butter using a pastry cutter until coarse crumbs form. Add water and mix into a ball.
- Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll each piece into a long log shape and form into a horseshoe on the baking sheets, flattening to about 2-3 inches wide. The dough will be sticky dip your fingers in flour if needed.
- Make the filling: In a saucepan, bring water and butter to a boil. Remove from heat and quickly stir in flour. Add eggs one at a time, stirring well. Mix in powdered sugar and almond extract. The mixture will be paste-like.
- Spread the filling evenly over the crust layers.
- Bake: Place the kringles in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown. Allow them to cool for at least 10-15 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prepare the icing: Beat the butter with powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk until smooth.
- Frost the kringles while still warm. Garnish with sliced almonds if desired. Slice and serve.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
The Origins of Kringle
The history of the kringle can be traced back to Scandinavia, particularly Denmark, where it has been a cherished pastry for centuries. The word “kringle” comes from the Old Norse word “kringla,” which means “circle” or “ring.” Traditionally, kringles were made in a twisted or pretzel-like shape and were often filled with various sweet or nutty ingredients.
In the 1800s, Danish immigrants brought their baking traditions to the United States, particularly settling in the Midwest. Wisconsin, in particular, became known for its kringles, and today, the state recognizes kringle as its official state pastry. Racine, Wisconsin, is famous for its Danish bakeries that continue to produce traditional kringles with a variety of fillings, including almond, pecan, cherry, and apple.
While traditional kringle recipes often require yeast and lengthy preparation times, this Almond Kringle recipe offers a simpler approach without compromising on flavor or texture. It delivers all the crisp, buttery goodness of the original while eliminating the need for yeast-based dough, making it accessible for home bakers.
What Makes Almond Kringle Special?
One of the standout features of Almond Kringle is its combination of textures. The bottom layer of pastry is crisp and flaky, while the filling is rich, slightly chewy, and bursting with almond flavor. The final touch a smooth almond glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness, making this pastry an irresistible treat.
Almond lovers especially appreciate this pastry for its deep, nutty taste, which is enhanced by the use of almond extract in both the filling and the icing. The result is a harmonious balance of buttery, slightly sweet, and aromatic flavors that pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea.
Additionally, kringle is highly versatile. While almond is a classic choice, it can be adapted with different fillings such as pecans, fruit preserves, cream cheese, or even chocolate. This flexibility makes it a great pastry to experiment with, allowing bakers to customize it to their liking.
A Treat for Any Occasion
One of the reasons Almond Kringle remains so popular is its ability to suit a variety of occasions. It’s an excellent addition to brunch tables, a thoughtful homemade gift during the holiday season, or a comforting weekend baking project. Because this recipe makes two kringles, it’s perfect for sharing whether with family, friends, or coworkers.
During the holiday season, kringles are particularly sought after. Their rich, festive flavors make them a wonderful alternative to traditional pies and cakes. Many families have even made kringle part of their Christmas morning tradition, enjoying a slice with hot cocoa or coffee before unwrapping presents.
Tips for Perfecting Your Almond Kringle
Even though this recipe simplifies the kringle-making process, there are a few tips to ensure the best results:
- Handle the dough carefully: The pastry dough is meant to be sticky, so resist the temptation to add extra flour. A little patience and light handling will yield the perfect flaky texture.
- Spread the filling evenly: Ensuring an even layer of filling helps maintain a consistent texture throughout the kringle.
- Don’t overbake: Since kringles have a delicate structure, baking them just until golden brown will keep them flaky without drying them out.
- Let it cool slightly before icing: Icing the kringle while it’s still warm allows it to melt slightly into the pastry, creating a perfect glaze.
How to Serve and Store Almond Kringle
Kringles are best enjoyed fresh, but they also store well. If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze the kringle by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to eat, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it up in the oven for a few minutes.
This makes kringle an excellent make-ahead pastry, perfect for preparing in advance for holiday gatherings or special occasions. Simply bake, freeze, and reheat when needed for a quick and delicious treat.
Conclusion:
Almond Kringle is a timeless pastry that brings together rich almond flavor, delicate pastry layers, and a sweet glaze in one irresistible bite. Rooted in Scandinavian traditions, it has become a cherished part of American baking culture, particularly in the Midwest. With its simple preparation and impressive results, this recipe allows home bakers to recreate the magic of traditional kringle without the need for yeast.
Whether you enjoy it as a morning pastry, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a festive holiday treat, Almond Kringle is a delightful indulgence that’s sure to impress. Once you take a bite of its flaky, buttery goodness, it’s easy to see why this pastry has remained a favorite for generations.