Homemade Almond Kringle Recipe

If you have a craving for something delectably flaky, buttery, and filled with a rich, nutty almond cream, then you are in for a real treat with this Homemade Almond Kringle Recipe. This classic Scandinavian pastry boasts layers of tender dough wrapped around a luscious almond filling, all finished with a sweet, glossy glaze and optional almond garnish. Whether you’re making it for a special brunch, holiday gathering, or simply as a delightful weekend indulgence, this pastry delivers an irresistible combination of textures and flavors that will quickly become a treasured favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Homemade Almond Kringle Recipe lies in its simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a masterpiece. Each component is essential: the cold butter and flour form the flaky dough, while the cream, almonds, and extracts blend into a perfect filling that is both nutty and luxuriously creamy. The glaze adds the perfect finishing touch, elevating every bite.

• 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender, flaky dough, plus a little extra for dusting.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 1 cup (2 sticks, 227g) unsalted butter, very cold and cubed: Essential for creating those delicate layers and flaky texture.
• ½ cup (120ml) ice water: Helps bind the dough without melting the butter.
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the rich almond filling.
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream: Adds creaminess and moisture to the filling.
• 1 cup (113g) blanched slivered almonds, toasted and finely ground: The star ingredient, providing nuttiness and texture.
• ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour: Thickens the filling into a smooth custard.
• 1 teaspoon almond extract: Packs an intense almond flavor that makes this filling sing.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and warmth to the filling.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness of the filling.
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar: Forms the base of a sweet glaze.
• 2–3 tablespoons milk or cream: Adjusts the glaze consistency to just the right pourability.
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional): Boosts the almond flavor in the glaze.
• Slivered or chopped toasted almonds (optional): Adds crunch and visual appeal as a garnish.

How to Make Homemade Almond Kringle Recipe

Step 1: Make the Flaky Dough

Start by whisking together the flour and salt in a large bowl. The salt will quietly enhance every mouthful. Then, add your cold, cubed butter and cut it into the flour with a pastry blender or your fingertips until you see coarse crumbs with some pea-sized butter bits. This is crucial because those little chunks create the delicate layers that give kringle its legendary flakiness. Add ice water slowly—one tablespoon at a time—just until the dough begins to hold together. Handle it gently without overmixing so the butter remains cold. Form the dough into a rectangle, wrap it tightly, and chill in the fridge to relax the gluten and firm up the butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Almond Filling

Toast your slivered almonds on a baking sheet until golden and fragrant, then let them cool completely. Once cooled, pulse them gently in a food processor until finely ground but not pasty—this texture is key! In a saucepan, combine the sugar, heavy cream, ground almonds, flour, almond and vanilla extracts, plus a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring nonstop so the mixture thickens into a luscious, smooth filling. This rich almond custard will cool and thicken further, ready to be wrapped in that delicious dough.

Step 3: Assemble and Shape the Kringle

Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment. Divide your chilled dough into two portions for easier handling. Roll one piece into a 12 by 18-inch rectangle about ¼ inch thick, being careful to keep the thickness even—that’s the secret to even baking. Spread half the cooled almond filling evenly, leaving a small border to seal the edges. Roll it up jelly-roll style from one long side, pinch the seam well, then bend into the traditional horseshoe or oval kringle shape. Pinch the ends together to seal. Repeat with the second dough and filling. Bake for about 25 to 35 minutes until gorgeously golden and invitingly fragrant.

Step 4: Glaze and Garnish Your Kringle

While the pastries cool slightly, whisk together your powdered sugar, milk or cream, and almond extract into a smooth, pourable glaze. Drizzle it beautifully across the cooled kringles, using a spoon or piping bag for a pretty finish. If you want to add a little extra wow factor, sprinkle chopped toasted almonds on top while the glaze is still wet. Let the glaze settle for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing and serving your masterpiece.

How to Serve Homemade Almond Kringle Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing your almond kringle is not only about looks; it adds a delightful texture contrast too. Slivered or chopped toasted almonds scattered over the glaze add a lovely crunch and enhance the nutty aroma, making each bite even more memorable. You can also consider a light dusting of powdered sugar for a classic, snowy effect.

Side Dishes

This kringle shines best on its own with a cup of steaming coffee or tea, but it’s also wonderful paired with fresh berries or a dollop of lightly whipped cream on the side. For a brunch spread, serve alongside smoked salmon, fresh fruit salad, or a light cheese platter to balance the richness of the pastry.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the traditional horseshoe shape by turning your kringle into individual mini pastries or braided logs for personalized servings. Arrange slices on a beautiful wooden board with fresh flowers or edible petals for gatherings. You might even add a splash of colored glaze or a sprinkle of edible gold dust for special occasions, creating a real conversation piece at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Homemade Almond Kringle Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to two days. Beyond that, refrigerating the kringle helps preserve freshness, though the delicate texture may firm slightly. Before storing, make sure the glaze has fully set to prevent stickiness.

Freezing

If you want to prepare kringle ahead of time, it freezes beautifully. Wrap whole kringles tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect from freezer burn. Freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bring to room temperature before serving to regain the pastry’s tender flakiness.

Reheating

To revive your kringle’s fresh-baked glory, warm slices gently in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This helps crisp the flaky layers without melting the glaze completely. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the pastry chewy or soggy.

FAQs

Can I use almond flour instead of ground slivered almonds for the filling?

While almond flour might seem like a convenient substitute, it tends to be finer and sometimes more oily, which can alter the texture and moisture of the filling. For the best results and authentic texture, finely ground toasted slivered almonds are preferred in this Homemade Almond Kringle Recipe.

Is there a way to make this kringle dairy-free?

You can try substituting the butter with a vegan butter alternative and swap the heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream. Keep in mind the texture and flavor may slightly differ, but with careful adjustments, you can still enjoy a delicious nutty kringle.

How important is chilling the dough overnight?

Chilling allows the gluten to relax and the butter to harden, which is key for a flaky and tender pastry. While two hours is a minimum, overnight chilling often results in easier handling and a superior texture, especially for this delicate almond kringle.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making the almond filling ahead is actually a great time-saver. Store it covered in the refrigerator, and bring it to room temperature before spreading onto your rolled dough to ensure smooth assembly and prevent the dough from melting prematurely.

What is the best way to roll and shape the kringle without tearing the dough?

Work with well-chilled dough on a lightly floured surface, rolling gently and turning the dough frequently for even thickness. Use a light touch when rolling and avoid stretching. When rolling up the filling, be sure the dough edges are dry and pinch seams tightly to prevent leaks while baking.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about mastering this Homemade Almond Kringle Recipe—the perfect marriage of flaky dough and creamy almond filling wrapped in a gorgeous glaze. Whether you’re sharing it with family or gifting it to friends, this pastry carries a warmth and joy that feels like a big, buttery hug. So go ahead and bake one soon; I promise it will become a beloved recipe you’ll return to again and again!

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