How to Make a Danish Kringle Like Your Favorite Danish Bakery
Opuere Odu
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Have you ever wondered, “What is a Danish Kringle and why has it has charmed its way into so many homes and bakeries?” Let’s explore what makes this pastry a timeless favorite.
What Is a Danish Kringle?
Image source Tornadough Alli
A Danish Kringle is a sweet, buttery pastry that’s been around since the 13th century in Denmark. It’s not just any dessert. It’s a Northern European pastry with layers of flaky pastry dough, often filled with almond paste or other fillings, and traditionally shaped like a pretzel. That pretzel shape was originally a symbol of bakers’ guilds, a mark of high quality and craftsmanship.
When Danish immigrants brought this tradition to places like Racine, Wisconsin, they made sure the legacy stayed alive. Today, bakeries like O&H Danish Bakery specialize in kringle flavor favorites, offering everything from classic almond to more creative options.
Which Danish Bakery Sells Kringles?
Need to order some Danish Kringles in the US? Here are a few bakeries that sell them:
O&H Danish Bakery: 5910 Washington Ave, Racine, WI 53406, USA
Bendtsen’s Bakery: 3200 Washington Ave, Racine, WI 53405, USA
Larsen’s Bakery: 3311 Washington Ave, Racine, WI 53405, USA
Racine Danish Kringles: 2529 Golf Ave, Racine, WI 53404, USA
Making Danish Kringles
Danish kringle is a traditional pastry from Denmark, known for its flaky layers and sweet fillings. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1 packet active dry yeast (about 2¼ teaspoons)
⅓ cup warm milk
1 large egg, room temperature
1 cup almond paste
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add the yeast mixture and the egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently until smooth.
Shape into a rectangle, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
In a medium bowl, combine almond paste, brown sugar, softened butter, and almond extract. Mix until smooth and set aside.
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a large rectangle, approximately 14×10 inches.
Spread the almond filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides.
Fold the long sides of the dough towards the center, overlapping slightly.
Pinch the seams to seal and carefully shape the dough into an oval or pretzel shape.
Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the kringle for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Drizzle the icing over the cooled kringle.
How to Serve a Danish Kringle
For the best experience, the kringle is best served warmed in the oven to enhance its buttery layers. If you’ve frozen your kringle for later, just let it thaw and give it a quick heat in the microwave or oven.
To warm a Kringle, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), remove any packaging, and place the Kringle on an oven-safe tray. Heat for about 3 to 5 minutes until it’s warm and the pastry becomes slightly crisp. Alternatively, you can warm individual slices in the microwave for about 7 to 10 seconds.
How to Eat a Kringle
Image source Simply Recipes
Once warmed, slice the Kringle into 1 or 2-inch pieces and enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea. If you have leftovers, Kringle can be stored at room temperature for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 6 months. To maintain its freshness, avoid refrigerating the Kringle, as this can dry out the pastry.
When ready to serve after freezing, allow the Kringle to thaw at room temperature for about an hour before warming and serving.
Can You Have Almond Danish Kringles for Dessert?
Yes, you can absolutely have almond Danish kringles for dessert. These are one of the everyday kringle favorites from places like O&H Danish Bakery. There are many types of kringles to explore, but the almond Danish stands out for its rich flavor and flaky texture.
Danish Kringle Optional Add-ins
Here are some optional additions to elevate the flavor and texture of your Kringles:
Raisins: Toss in 1/2 cup of raisins for a touch of sweetness and a chewy bite.
Chopped toasted nuts: Add 3/4 cup of toasted walnuts or pecans to bring a satisfying crunch.
Candied citrus peel: Mix in 1/2 cup of candied citrus peel for bright, sweet citrus notes.
Marzipan or almond paste: Spread a layer of marzipan or almond paste for a rich, nutty flavor.
Fruit preserves: Incorporate raspberry or apricot preserves for a burst of fruity sweetness.
Spiced nuts: Use cinnamon- or nutmeg-spiced nuts for a warm, aromatic twist.
Tips and Tricks for Making Danish Kringle
To get a Danish Kringle right, you’ve got to pay attention to the details. Here are a few pointers:
Use Cold Ingredients
Keep your butter and liquids cold. The dough needs to stay chilled throughout the process, or you’ll lose those flaky layers.
Fold Like It Matters
The folding and laminating aren’t optional steps. They’re what give kringle its texture. Take your time.
Chill Between Steps
After every fold, rest the dough in the refrigerator. It keeps the butter firm and the dough workable.
Fill It Just Enough
Too much filling will spill out in the oven. Stick to a reasonable amount for the best results.
Seal It Tight
Don’t let the filling escape. Use a bit of water along the edges to lock everything in.
Golden Brown, Not Burnt
Keep an eye on the oven. You’re looking for a golden, flaky crust—nothing less.
Cool It Before Icing
If you ice while it’s hot, the icing will just melt into a mess. Wait until the pastry has cooled before icing it.
Store or Freeze Smartly
Kringle keeps for a few days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze it and warm it up later.
What Is a Danish Kringle? Final Thoughts
The Danish Kringle doesn’t need much fanfare. It speaks for itself with every bite. Enjoy it fresh from a bakery or make one in your own kitchen, and get a simple yet indulgent reminder of the joy good pastry can bring.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Danish Kringle taste like?
A Danish Kringle is sweet, buttery, and flaky, often filled with almond paste, fruits, or nuts for a rich and indulgent flavor.
What is Trader Joe’s Danish Kringle?
Trader Joe’s Danish Kringle is a seasonal pastry made by O&H Danish Bakery, featuring flavors like almond, pecan, and pumpkin caramel.
How long does a Danish Kringle last?
At room temperature, it lasts about 5 days. When frozen, it stays fresh for up to 6 months.
What does Kringle mean in Danish?
“Kringle” in Danish refers to a pretzel-shaped pastry, derived from the Old Norse word “kringla,” meaning circle.
What country does Kringle come from?
Kringle originates from Denmark and has become a beloved pastry in places like Wisconsin, USA.
