Cozy Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze

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Golden, flaky layers hugging a luscious apple-cinnamon filling and finished with a silky vanilla glaze — that’s the kind of morning magic you get from this Cozy Apple Kringle. It tastes like a cross between an apple danish and a cinnamon roll, but with the elegance of a braided pastry. Whether you serve it warm for brunch or bring it out as a cozy dessert, this treat disappears fast.

This kringle captures the flavors of autumn but feels right any time of year. Tart apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon melt together between buttery sheets of puff pastry, creating a texture that’s both gooey and crisp. And once that vanilla glaze drizzles down the golden crust, you’ll know you’re about to fall in love with your oven all over again.

What Kind of Puff Pastry Should I Use?

Look for an all-butter puff pastry for best results — it yields a richer flavor and better flake. Brands like Dufour or Trader Joe’s offer great options. Make sure to thaw it properly in the fridge overnight for a smooth rolling and folding process.

Ingredients for the Cozy Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze

• Puff Pastry: This is the crisp, flaky base that encases the apple filling. It puffs beautifully and offers a satisfying crunch.
• Apples: Use firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a balance of sweetness and tang.
• Brown Sugar: Adds that deep molasses sweetness that pairs perfectly with apples and cinnamon.
• Ground Cinnamon: Essential for warmth and that classic apple pie flavor.
• Nutmeg (optional): A pinch brings extra depth to the spice profile.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the apple filling so it doesn’t run out during baking.
• Lemon Juice: Keeps the apples from browning and adds a fresh tang.
• Egg (for egg wash): Brushed on the pastry to achieve that perfect golden crust.
• Vanilla Glaze: A simple mix of powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk to drizzle over the baked kringle.

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How To Make the Cozy Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze

Step 1: Make the Apple Filling

Peel, core, and slice your apples thinly. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring gently, until the apples are just tender and the sauce is thickened. Let cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle, about 10×14 inches. Transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 3: Add the Filling

Spoon the cooled apple filling down the center third of the pastry, lengthwise. Slice diagonal strips (about 1 inch wide) on both sides of the filling.

Step 4: Braid and Seal

Fold the top and bottom edges over the filling, then alternate folding the strips over the filling to create a braid. Tuck ends under. Brush the pastry with beaten egg.

Step 5: Bake

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. Let cool slightly.

Step 6: Glaze It

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the kringle once it’s mostly cooled. Serve warm or at room temp.

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How to Serve and Store This Kringle

Serve the kringle slightly warm for the ultimate comfort food experience. That flaky pastry and gooey apple center really shine when it’s fresh. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side doesn’t hurt either!

For leftovers, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4. Reheat gently in a 300°F oven to bring back the crispiness.

What to Serve With Cozy Apple Kringle?

Warm Apple Cider

The cozy apple-on-apple pairing makes for the ultimate fall-inspired indulgence.

Salted Caramel Sauce

Drizzle over the kringle for a decadent twist that amplifies the buttery layers.

Spiced Chai Latte

Perfectly balances the sweetness with warming spice and creaminess.

Maple Bacon Strips

Yes, really. The sweet-savory combo hits a new level when paired with flaky pastry.

Fresh Berries

Brighten up your plate with a handful of strawberries or raspberries on the side.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

The classic creamy companion that complements the warm apple filling.

Greek Yogurt with Honey

For a lighter pairing, a dollop of yogurt adds creaminess and tang.

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Want More Pastry Ideas?

If you love this Cozy Apple Kringle, you’ll probably enjoy these other flaky, fruit-filled favorites:

• Moist Apple Crumble Coffee Cake for a streusel-topped morning treat.
• Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites that bring gooey, spiced joy to breakfast.
• Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls for a sweet, swirled spin on your favorite combo.
• Lusciously Soft Lemon Rolls if you’re craving tangy and tender.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Bundt Cake to keep the fruity theme going strong.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use Honeycrisp or go full Granny Smith? Try adding pecans or swapping in pears?

I love hearing your variations and ideas! Ask away if you have questions—let’s make baking joyful together.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and cozy bakes on ChefAlchemy Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

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