Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that feels just as special on a busy weeknight as it does at family gatherings, then you’re in for a treat with the Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle! This delightful pastry is one of my all-time favorites. It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging yourself after a long day. The flaky crust, rich almond filling, and sweet glaze make it a comforting classic that never fails to bring smiles.

What makes this recipe so special is not just its delicious flavors but also how straightforward it is to make. You’ll find that each step brings you closer to creating something truly impressive, and your kitchen will smell heavenly while it bakes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll be whipping up this kringle in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves a sweet treat, and the almond flavor is universally adored!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough ahead of time and bake when you’re ready to enjoy fresh pastries.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch, dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack, this kringle fits right in.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of buttery crust and almond filling will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Dough

• 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

For the Filling

• 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

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 to 3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with flavors or toppings. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Chocolate: Incorporate mini chocolate chips into the almond filling for an extra layer of flavor.
• Try Different Nuts: Use finely chopped walnuts or pecans instead of almonds for a different nutty twist.
• Add Fruit Flavoring: Mix in some lemon zest or orange zest to brighten up the filling.
• Go Nut-Free: Substitute sunflower seed butter for the almond filling to create an equally tasty nut-free option.

How to Make Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. This step is crucial because it evenly distributes the salt throughout the flour. Next, add in your cold, cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter (or your fingers), cut in the butter until you achieve a coarse crumb mixture. The goal is to keep those little pieces of butter intact; they help create that lovely flaky texture!

Step 2: Bring It Together

Gradually stream in the ice water while mixing until the dough just comes together. This is important—overmixing can make your crust tough! Once combined, shape it into a rectangle, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least two hours. Chilling allows the gluten to relax and makes rolling out much easier.

Step 3: Toast Your Almonds

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread your slivered almonds on a baking sheet and toast them for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Keep an eye on them; they can burn quickly! Once toasted, let them cool before grinding them in a food processor. This creates that rich almond flavor throughout your filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, heavy cream, ground almonds, flour, almond extract, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir continuously until thickened—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, allow it to cool completely before spreading it onto your dough.

Step 5: Roll Out Your Dough

Now preheat your oven to 375°F again and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Divide your chilled dough in half and roll each piece into rectangles about 12 by 18 inches. Rolling it out evenly ensures uniform baking and makes it easier to fill.

Step 6: Assemble Your Kringle

Spread your cooled almond filling over each rectangle of dough while leaving about a ½-inch border around the edges. Now comes the fun part—roll each rectangle up jelly-roll style! Curve each roll into a horseshoe shape and place them on your prepared baking sheet.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake your kringles for about 25-35 minutes or until they turn golden brown (and reach an internal temperature of 200°F – 210°F). The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 8: Cool and Glaze

Once baked, cool them on the sheet for about 10-15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While they cool, whisk together powdered sugar with milk (or cream) until smooth—add almond extract if you like! Drizzle this heavenly glaze over your cooled kringles and sprinkle with extra slivered almonds before letting them set for about 15-20 minutes.

And there you have it—the Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle! Each bite will take you straight to pastry heaven! Enjoy sharing (or not!) this delightful treat with friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle

Making the Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle can be a rewarding experience, and with these helpful tips, you’ll ensure your pastry turns out perfectly every time!

• Use cold butter: Starting with cold butter helps create that flaky texture we all love in pastries. It prevents the butter from melting into the flour too soon, allowing for those beautiful layers to form during baking.

• Don’t skip refrigerating the dough: Chilling the dough before rolling it out ensures it holds its shape while baking and makes it easier to handle. This step is crucial for achieving a tender and flaky crust.

• Keep an eye on the almonds: Toasting your slivered almonds enhances their flavor, but be sure to watch them closely! They can go from golden to burnt in just a minute or two.

• Let the filling cool completely: Before spreading the almond filling onto the dough, allow it to cool completely. This prevents the heat from melting the butter in your dough, which could lead to a less flaky final product.

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to play around with different extracts or toppings. Adding a hint of orange zest or a sprinkle of cinnamon can elevate your kringle to new heights!

How to Serve Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle

Serving your freshly baked kringle is almost as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to present this beautiful pastry and enhance its appeal.

Garnishes

• Sliced almonds: Sprinkle some toasted sliced almonds on top of your drizzled glaze for added crunch and visual appeal.
• Fresh berries: A handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries on the side adds color and freshness, balancing the richness of the kringle.
• Mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint can provide a refreshing touch that brightens up both presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits can complement the sweetness of the kringle and provide a light, refreshing contrast.
• Coffee or tea: Pairing your kringle with a steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea.
• Yogurt parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruits offers a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the flaky pastry while adding nutritional value.
• Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses can balance out the sweetness of your kringle, providing an interesting flavor profile that guests will love.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create an inviting atmosphere perfect for enjoying your Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

The Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it fresh throughout the week. Here’s how to store and preserve your delicious kringles.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the kringle to cool completely before storing.
• Place the almond kringle in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for 5-7 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, make sure the kringle is fully cooled.
• Wrap each kringle tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, remove the kringle from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the kringle on a baking sheet.
• Warm in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about making the Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle!

Can I use other nuts instead of almonds in this recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe features almonds, you can substitute them with other nuts like hazelnuts or walnuts if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the flavorings accordingly.

How can I make my Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle even more flavorful?

For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg into your almond filling. You can also experiment with different extracts!

How long does it take to prepare the Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle?

The total time is about 1 hour and 25 minutes. This includes preparation, baking, and cooling time—perfect for a weekend baking project!

Can I make the filling ahead of time for my Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle?

Yes! The filling can be made up to two days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

What should I serve with my Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle?

This delightful pastry pairs beautifully with coffee or tea. It also makes a lovely addition to brunch spreads alongside fresh fruit and pastries.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try making this Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle! Its flaky crust and rich almond filling create a delightful treat that is perfect for sharing with loved ones—or enjoying all by yourself. Don’t hesitate to get creative with flavors and toppings! Enjoy every moment of your baking journey, and may each bite bring a smile to your face!