Introduction to Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle
Welcome to the delightful world of baking! Today, I’m excited to share my Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle with you. If you’re like me, you understand the magic a warm, flaky pastry can bring to a busy day. This kringle is more than just a treat—it’s a celebration waiting to happen, whether you’re hosting friends or indulging in a moment for yourself. With its rich almond filling and sweet glaze, it’s truly a dish that will impress your loved ones. Let’s dive into this simple yet elegant recipe that’s bound to make you feel like a pastry chef in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle
This Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle is a game changer for busy mornings and special celebrations alike. It’s easy to make, requiring simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. The flavor is heavenly—think buttery pastry paired with rich almond goodness. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to impress guests or indulge with your family. Just wait until you see smiles light up their faces!
Ingredients for Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward creating your Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your pastry, giving it that delightful flaky texture. Make sure it’s fresh for the best results!
- Fine table salt: A pinch of salt elevates the flavors, balancing out the sweetness beautifully.
- Unsalted butter: Cold and cubed, this adds richness. Don’t skimp on quality here; it really makes a difference!
- Ice water: Helps bring the dough together without warming the butter. Cold water is key for that flakiness!
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling and the glaze, adding that irresistible touch to your kringle.
- Heavy cream: This is combined with the filling for a luscious texture and flavor.
- Blanched slivered almonds: Toasted and ground, they create the rich almond flavor that defines this pastry. They also add a delightful crunch!
- Additional all-purpose flour: Used in the almond filling, it helps to thicken and holds it all together.
- Pure almond extract: This enhances the almond flavor. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this!
- Pure vanilla extract: Just a touch rounds out the flavors and adds depth.
- Pinch of salt: Again, balancing the sweetness—little things mean a lot!
- Powdered sugar: Essential for that dreamy glaze. It makes your kringle look—and taste—amazing!
- Milk or heavy cream: These are mixed into the glaze for the perfect pourable consistency. Feel free to adjust it to your texture preference!
- Optional almond extract: If you desire an extra punch of almond flavor in the glaze, this is your secret weapon!
How to Make Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get started on creating this mouthwatering Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle! I promise the process is easier than it looks, and each step brings you closer to a delicious pastry that will make your kitchen smell heavenly.
Step 1 – Prepare the Dough
Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour and salt in a large bowl. The flour is your canvas, while the salt brings everything to life.
Next, add the cold, cubed butter to the bowl. Using a pastry cutter or your clean hands, cut the butter into the flour mixture. You’re aiming for coarse crumbs, with pea-sized bits of butter still visible.
This step is crucial because those little pockets of butter are what give you that flaky texture.
Now, gradually stream in the ice water while mixing with a fork until the dough begins to come together.
When it’s ready, form the dough into a rectangle, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for at least two hours—or overnight if you can wait.
This chill time isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a necessity for that perfect pastry structure!
Step 2 – Toast the Almonds
While the dough chills, let’s toast our slivered almonds.
Preheat your oven to 350°F, then spread the almonds on a baking sheet in an even layer.
Toasting them for about 8-10 minutes, stirring once, is key. This little step enhances flavor immeasurably, bringing out those rich, nutty notes.
You want them golden brown and fragrant, but keep a close eye—burnt almonds are no fun!
Once they’re toasty, let them cool completely before grinding them into a fine consistency in a food processor.
Step 3 – Make the Almond Filling
Now it’s time to make the star of the show—the almond filling.
In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, heavy cream, ground toasted almonds, flour, almond extract, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens and starts to simmer—this should take about 5-7 minutes.
Once thickened, transfer it to a bowl and allow it to cool completely. You want it at room temperature before spreading it on the dough!
Step 4 – Shape the Kringles
With the dough chilled and the filling cooled, it’s time to roll! Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Take the chilled dough out and divide it in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll each piece into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
Spread half of the cooled almond filling over each rectangle, leaving a generous ½-inch border at the edges.
To roll, start at one end and go jelly-roll style, tucking tightly as you go.
Once rolled, curve each log into a horseshoe shape, and gently transfer them to the prepared baking sheet.
Voila! You’re on your way to kringle greatness!
Step 5 – Bake the Kringles
It’s almost time to taste your creation! Bake the kringles in your preheated oven for 25-35 minutes.
Keep an eye on them; you want a rich golden brown color.
To ensure they’re done, check the internal temperature—it should be between 200°F to 210°F.
Once baked to perfection, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6 – Prepare the Glaze
Your kringles are looking fantastic, and now it’s time for that sweet finishing touch!
In a bowl, whisk together the sifted powdered sugar, milk (or heavy cream), and optional almond extract until smooth.
Once your kringles have cooled, drizzle this heavenly glaze over the top.
Don’t hold back; the glaze is what makes them truly irresistible!
If you like, sprinkle with a few extra slivered almonds for an elegant touch.
Now, allow the glaze to set for 15-20 minutes before slicing into it and serving. Enjoy every delightful bite!
Tips for Success
- Chill your dough properly. It ensures flakiness and manageable texture.
- Don’t rush the toasting process; it enhances the almond flavor significantly.
- Use a food processor for grinding almonds for a fine, even texture.
- Check for doneness with a thermometer—perfection matters!
- Feel free to experiment with extracts for unique flavor twists.
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl – Any bowl will do, just ensure it’s big enough to hold your dough.
- Pastry cutter or clean hands – You can also use a fork to cut in the butter.
- Rolling pin – A wine bottle works in a pinch!
- Parchment paper – If you don’t have it, greasing the baking sheet works fine.
- Medium saucepan – A skillet can work if you’re careful with stirring.
- Food processor – A blender can be an alternative for grinding almonds.
Variations of Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle
- Chocolate Almond Kringle: Add some cocoa powder to the almond filling for a delightful chocolate twist that pairs beautifully with the almonds.
- Fruit-Filled Kringle: Swap out half of the almond filling for your favorite fruit jam, like raspberry or apricot, for a fruity, tangy surprise.
- Gluten-Free Kringle: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this treat gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
- Maple Almond Kringle: Use maple syrup instead of granulated sugar in the filling for a sweet, caramel-like flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Nut-Free Kringle: Replace almonds with sunflower seed butter in the filling, and you’ve got a nut-free version that’s just as delicious.
Serving Suggestions for Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle
- Pair your kringle with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Serve it alongside fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries, for a pop of color and freshness.
- For special occasions, dust with extra powdered sugar before serving for a beautiful presentation.
- Consider a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side for indulgence!
FAQs about Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle
Can I make the almond filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the almond filling a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just allow it to come to room temperature before spreading it on the dough.
How do I store leftover kringle?
Store any leftover kringle in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for 2-3 days, and if you’d like, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it before enjoying!
What can I substitute for heavy cream in the glaze?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the heavy cream with milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk or oat milk. Just remember that the texture might change slightly.
Can I use a different nut instead of almonds?
Of course! Pecans or walnuts can work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that it’ll change the flavor profile, but it’ll still be a delicious treat!
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes! While the recipe has a few steps, I assure you, it’s simple enough for beginners. Just take your time, and soon you’ll be a kringle-making pro!
Final Thoughts
Baking the Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle is more than just creating a delicious pastry—it’s about sharing moments and making memories. There’s something special about the aroma filling your home, the smiles around the table, and the joy of savoring each flaky bite. This delightful treat isn’t reserved just for special occasions; it can brighten any day! So, grab your apron and let the magic of your kitchen shine. I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it has to me. Happy baking, and may your kringles be as wonderful as the moments you share them!
Print
Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including refrigeration time)
- Yield: 2 kringles 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Danish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
The Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle is a delightful pastry filled with a rich almond filling and topped with a sweet glaze. Perfect for special occasions or as a treat for yourself!
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus additional for dusting
- 1 teaspoon fine table salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup ice water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup blanched slivered almonds, toasted and finely ground
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon pure almond extract
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk flour and salt together. Add cold, cubed butter and cut in with a pastry cutter or clean hands until mixture forms coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter throughout.
- Gradually stream in ice water, mixing with a fork until dough just comes together. Form into a rectangle, wrap tightly in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread slivered almonds on a baking sheet in an even layer and toast for 8-10 minutes, stirring once, until golden brown. Cool completely, then grind to a fine consistency in a food processor.
- In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, heavy cream, ground toasted almonds, all-purpose flour, almond extract, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and begins to simmer, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and let filling cool completely.
- Preheat oven to 375°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Divide chilled dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll each piece into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
- Spread half of the cooled almond filling over each rectangle, leaving a 1/2-inch border at the edges. Roll up jelly-roll style, then curve each log into a horseshoe shape. Transfer to prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-35 minutes, or until pastry is rich golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 200°F to 210°F.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 10-15 minutes before carefully transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Whisk sifted powdered sugar, milk (or cream), and almond extract (if using) in a bowl until smooth. Drizzle glaze over the cooled kringles.
- Garnish with additional slivered almonds if desired. Allow the glaze to set for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Store any leftover kringle in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw before serving.
- Experiment with different flavor extracts for a unique twist!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
