Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle Recipe

If you are searching for a show-stopping pastry that brings a touch of Scandinavian tradition to your kitchen, you have to try the Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle Recipe. This delightful treat combines flaky, buttery pastry with a luscious almond filling, all topped with a sweet glaze that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving something extraordinary, this kringle promises a perfect balance of texture and flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward baking this luscious almond kringle. Each component plays an important role, from the flaky crust to the rich and nutty filling, making the recipe both straightforward and rewarding.

• 2.5 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the dough while keeping it tender.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
• 1 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into ½-inch cubes): The cold butter is key to that signature flaky, layered texture.
• 0.5 cup ice water: Keeps the dough firm and workable, ensuring a tender crumb.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the almond filling perfectly.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Adds richness to both the dough and the filling.
• 1 cup blanched slivered almonds (toasted and finely ground): Delivers that signature nutty flavor and texture.
• 0.25 cup all-purpose flour (for filling thickening): Gives body to the filling so it holds up during baking.
• 1 teaspoon almond extract: Brings out the unmistakable almond aroma in the filling.
• 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the filling’s flavor.
• 1 pinch salt: Balances sweetness and highlights the almonds.
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Creates a smooth, sweet finish on top.
• 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream: Adjusts the glaze to the perfect drizzle consistency.
• 0.25 teaspoon almond extract (optional for glaze): Amplifies almond flavor in the glaze for extra indulgence.

How to Make Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dough

Start by whisking the flour and salt together in a large bowl to ensure even seasoning. Cut the super-cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with small pea-sized bits of butter throughout. This cold butter is crucial to creating the flaky layers you’ll love. Gradually add the ice water, stirring gently until everything just comes together. Avoid overmixing to keep the dough tender. Shape it into a neat rectangle, wrap tightly in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight. This resting time helps relax the gluten so your kringle puffs up perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Almond Filling

While the dough chills, toast your slivered almonds in the oven at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes until golden and aromatic. Let them cool, then grind finely in a food processor to infuse maximum flavor and create a smooth filling texture. In a saucepan, combine the ground almonds, sugar, heavy cream, flour, almond extract, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly to avoid lumps, until it thickens and starts simmering—about 5-7 minutes. Let the filling cool completely before using it to keep your dough from getting soggy.

Step 3: Assemble Your Kringles

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Divide your chilled dough into two equal parts. Roll each half into a large 12 by 18-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Spread half of the cooled almond filling evenly over each rectangle, leaving about a ½-inch border free around the edges. Then, roll each one jelly-roll style starting from the longer edge. Shape the rolled dough into a classic horseshoe shape and place them carefully onto your prepared baking sheet. This is where your kringle starts looking breathtaking!

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake the kringles for 25 to 35 minutes, until they achieve a gorgeous golden brown color and the internal temperature reaches between 200°F and 210°F. This ensures a fully baked, flaky interior. After baking, let them cool on the baking sheet for 10 to 15 minutes—you’ll want them warm but not piping hot—before transferring to a wire rack to cool further. Cooling fully helps the glaze adhere perfectly.

Step 5: Glaze and Garnish

Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk or heavy cream, and the optional almond extract to create a smooth, luscious glaze. Drizzle this over your cooled kringles generously, and sprinkle some slivered almonds on top for that extra crunch and stunning presentation. Let the glaze set for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing and serving so every bite stays wonderfully moist and flavorful.

How to Serve Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle Recipe

Garnishes

While the classic slivered almonds on top are a lovely touch, feel free to get creative! A light dusting of powdered sugar adds elegance, and a few edible flowers can brighten the look for a festive brunch. If you’re feeling indulgent, a thin drizzle of dark chocolate alongside the almond glaze adds a decadent twist that pairs beautifully with the nutty filling.

Side Dishes

The Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle Recipe shines as a centerpiece on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit—think berry medleys or sliced stone fruits for contrast. A cup of rich coffee or a fragrant tea is the perfect companion, making your breakfast or dessert feel extra special. For an afternoon gathering, serve alongside creamy yogurt or a mild cheese to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Present your kringle as a rustic centerpiece by placing it on a wooden board or decorative platter. Cut into slices and fan them out for easy sharing and eye appeal. Alternatively, serve small individual portions on dessert plates with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted almonds for an elegant touch. You could also pack slices in cellophane tied with a ribbon to gift to friends—nothing says love quite like a homemade almond kringle!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to preserve the flaky texture. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is okay but may slightly soften the pastry. Before serving, letting the kringle come back to room temperature helps bring back some of its fresh-baked charm.

Freezing

Freezing is a great option if you want to enjoy this treat later. Wrap the fully cooled kringle tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to protect against freezer burn. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before glazing or reheating.

Reheating

To revive your kringle’s crispness, warm slices gently in a 300°F oven for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy. Once warmed, the almond filling becomes even more fragrant and the pastry delightfully flaky—almost like freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! The dough benefits from resting and can be made up to two days ahead. Just keep it wrapped tightly in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and bake.

What type of almonds work best?

Blanched slivered almonds are ideal because they toast evenly and grind smoothly into the filling. Avoid raw or whole almonds that aren’t prepared, as they can affect texture.

Is there a substitute for almond extract?

If you don’t have almond extract, you can increase the vanilla extract slightly or use a bit of amaretto liqueur for almond flavor, but almond extract gives the most authentic taste.

Can I make smaller kringles instead of large ones?

Yes, dividing the dough into smaller portions and shaping mini kringles is a fantastic idea, especially for parties. Just adjust baking time accordingly, usually 15-20 minutes.

How do I prevent the dough from getting soggy during baking?

Make sure the almond filling is fully cooled before spreading it on the dough, and keep the dough well chilled before assembling. These steps help maintain that beautiful flaky crust.

Final Thoughts

The Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle Recipe is truly one of those magical pastries that combines simple ingredients with a love-filled process to create something unforgettable. Once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s a cherished treat across generations. I promise, this kringle will become a go-to recipe that you’ll want to bake again and again for family, friends, or even just to treat yourself. Happy baking and even happier eating!

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