Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze

Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze is a delightful treat that combines flaky, buttery pastry with a sweet and tangy apple filling. The layers of crisp dough are filled with cinnamon-spiced…

By Alina • October 12, 2025 • Reading time: 6 min

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Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze is a delightful treat that combines flaky, buttery pastry with a sweet and tangy apple filling. The layers of crisp dough are filled with cinnamon-spiced apples that bake up perfectly tender, while the vanilla glaze adds a smooth and creamy finish. It’s the kind of pastry that fills the kitchen with the smell of fresh apples and warm spices.

I love making this Kringle because it feels special but isn’t too complicated. The puff pastry makes it quick to prepare, yet the filling and glaze create that homemade charm. I always find that the vanilla glaze makes all the difference—it’s like the cherry on top that brings everything together. Sometimes I drizzle a little extra for friends and family, and they always ask for the recipe afterward.

Serving it warm with a cup of coffee or tea is my favorite way to enjoy Apple Kringle. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a sweet snack anytime during the day. Plus, it keeps well, so leftovers taste just as good the next day, making it a cozy go-to treat for quiet mornings or relaxed afternoons.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Apples: I like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for their balance of tartness and sweetness. You can also try Fuji or Gala if you prefer a sweeter filling. Just make sure any apple you use holds its shape when baked.

Puff Pastry: Ready-made puff pastry works well for ease and flaky layers. If you want a homemade touch, making puff pastry from scratch is rewarding but a bit time-consuming. You can also use frozen crescent dough as a shortcut.

Brown & Granulated Sugar: Combining these adds depth and caramel notes to the filling. For a healthier swap, try coconut sugar or maple syrup, but adjust liquids a bit.

Vanilla Glaze: Powdered sugar mixed with milk and vanilla is simple and sweet. For a fun twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or substituting milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.

How Do You Get the Perfect Twisted Braided Shape Without Tearing?

Creating the braid look is easier than it seems but needs a gentle touch:

• Roll the pastry into a rectangle; don’t overstretch or roll it too thin—it should be about 1/8 inch thick.
• After placing the filling down the center, fold the edges carefully without pressing too hard to avoid squeezing out the apples.
• Cut the slits on each side evenly and try to keep them the same size for a balanced braid.
• When twisting, lift each strip gently over the filling and press lightly to seal, but avoid pulling hard as the dough is delicate.
• Form the circle or oval shape with care; pressing the ends together firmly helps keep the shape while baking.

Keeping the pastry cool also helps prevent tearing, so if the dough feels too soft or sticky, chill it briefly before working.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Baking sheet – provides a flat surface to bake your kringle evenly and catch any drips.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Sharp knife or kitchen scissors – used to cut the pastry strips neatly for twisting.
• Mixing bowls – for combining the apple filling and whisking the glaze.
• Whisk or fork – helps you mix the vanilla glaze smoothly without lumps.
• Pastry brush – to apply the egg wash evenly for a beautiful golden crust.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Use pears instead of apples for a softer, sweeter filling that bakes well.
• Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the filling for extra crunch and flavor.
• Stir in a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for a chewy, fruity contrast.
• Mix some cream cheese into the glaze or dollop it inside for a rich and tangy twist.

Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Apple Filling:

• 3 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and finely chopped or thinly sliced
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour (to thicken)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning and add brightness)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Dough:

• 1 package (about 17.3 oz) puff pastry sheets, thawed (or homemade puff pastry)

For Assembly:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Turbinado sugar or coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling)

For the Vanilla Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

How Much Time Will You Need?

This Apple Kringle takes about 15 minutes to prepare, 30-35 minutes to bake, and around 10-15 minutes to cool before glazing and serving. Overall, plan for about 1 hour from start to finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Apple Filling:

In a medium bowl, mix the chopped apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Toss everything together so the apples are well coated. Set aside.

2. Shape the Pastry with Filling:

Roll out one sheet of thawed puff pastry on a floured surface into a rectangle about 12 by 9 inches. Spread the apple mixture evenly down the center, leaving about 2 inches free on each side. Fold the edges over the filling to create a long strip. Using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors, cut slits about 1 inch apart on both sides along the pastry edges, avoiding the middle. Gently twist strips over the filling alternately left and right to create a braided look.

3. Form and Bake the Kringle:

Shape the twisted pastry into a circle or oval on a parchment-lined baking sheet and press the ends together gently to seal. Brush the whole pastry with beaten egg and sprinkle with turbinado sugar, if using. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes until the pastry is golden and puffed and the apples are tender.

4. Make and Add Vanilla Glaze:

While baking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust milk to get a thick but pourable glaze. After removing the kringle from the oven, let it cool 10-15 minutes before drizzling the glaze generously on top. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your warm, flaky Apple Kringle with the sweet touch of vanilla glaze!

Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry for This Recipe?

Yes! Just be sure to thaw the puff pastry completely in the refrigerator overnight before using. This helps ensure it rolls out smoothly and bakes evenly without any sogginess.

Can I Make the Apple Kringle Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the kringle up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed. The glaze is best added right after baking.

How Should I Store Leftover Kringle?

Store leftover kringle in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days or in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven to refresh the crispness before serving.

Can I Substitute Other Fruits in the Filling?

Yes! Pears, peaches, or a mix of berries can work well as alternatives or additions to apples. Just be mindful of juiciness—adding a bit more flour or cornstarch can help thicken the filling if needed.