When the weather turns crisp and cozy, nothing warms the soul quite like a slice of warm kringle. As I sat down with a steaming cup of coffee one chilly morning, the aroma of toasted almonds enveloped my kitchen, transporting me back to festive gatherings filled with laughter and love. That’s when I decided it was time to create the Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle—a flaky pastry that elegantly straddles the line between sophistication and comfort.
Perfect for lazy weekend brunches or as a showstopper at holiday breakfasts, this kringle is bursting with an irresistible nutty flavor, and its make-ahead nature makes it a breeze to prepare. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something special, you’ll find endless ways to customize this recipe, from bursting with fresh fruit to being completely nut-free. Join me as we whisk together a blend of flavors and memories that will have you savoring every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Almond Kringle
Simplicity at its core: This recipe is a delightful combination of straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, perfect even for beginner bakers.
Irresistible Flavors: The warm notes of toasted almonds paired with sweet glaze elevate this pastry to the next level, ensuring it’ll be a favorite at every table.
Versatile Options: Whether you prefer nut-free or chocolate-filled variations, this kringle can be adapted to suit any palate or dietary need.
Make-Ahead Marvel: Prepare the dough or filling in advance, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings or festive gatherings without the last-minute rush.
Artisan Touch: Impress your family and friends with a homemade treat that rivals any bakery, showcasing your creative flair and attention to detail.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: With its perfect balance of flaky texture and rich flavor, this dish is sure to be a hit, leaving everyone asking for seconds (or thirds!).
Homemade Almond Kringle Ingredients
• Note: Gather these essentials for a delightful Homemade Almond Kringle that’s as impressive as it is delicious!
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture for a flaky pastry; use extra for dusting as needed.
- Salt – Enhances flavors; fine table salt blends better into the dough.
- Cold Unsalted Butter – Essential for achieving that perfect flakiness; keep it very cold until ready to use.
- Ice Water – Binds the dough; ensure it’s very cold for optimal consistency.
For the Almond Filling
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and balances the nutty filling; adjust to taste.
- Heavy Cream – Contributes richness to the filling; full-fat yields the best flavor and texture.
- Blanched Slivered Almonds – The star of the filling; toast and grind for maximum nuttiness, or swap with walnuts for a twist.
- All-Purpose Flour (for thickening) – Helps achieve the right consistency in the almond filling.
- Almond Extract – Deepens the almond flavor; pure extract is recommended for authentic taste.
- Vanilla Extract – Provides aromatic depth; opt for pure for the best results.
- Salt – Balances the flavors in the almond filling, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
For the Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – The foundation for a sweet glaze; sifted for a smooth finish.
- Milk/Heavy Cream – Adjusts glaze consistency to achieve that perfect drizzle over the baked kringle.
How to Make Homemade Almond Kringle
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Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Cut in the cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add very cold ice water until a dough forms, then shape it into a rectangle, wrap, and chill for 2 hours.
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Prepare the Filling: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Toast the blanched slivered almonds on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until golden and fragrant. Once cooled, grind them finely. In a saucepan, combine the ground almonds, granulated sugar, heavy cream, all-purpose flour, almond extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until the mixture thickens for about 5-7 minutes. Allow it to cool completely.
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Assemble and Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Roll out the chilled dough into two large rectangles (about 12×18 inches each). Spread the almond filling evenly on one rectangle, then place the other on top. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for 25-35 minutes, checking for a golden brown color and an internal temperature of 200-210°F.
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Glaze and Finish: After removing from the oven, cool the kringle on a wire rack for 10 minutes. In a mixing bowl, whisk together sifted powdered sugar and enough milk or heavy cream to achieve a smooth glaze. Drizzle it over the kringle and garnish with additional slivered almonds if desired.
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon for an added flair.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Almond Kringle are a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. The almond filling can be made ahead too, stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days—just let it cool completely before sealing to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the chilled dough, spread the filling, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a deliciously flaky pastry ready to impress with minimal effort when it’s time to serve!
How to Store and Freeze Homemade Almond Kringle
Room Temperature: Store cooled kringle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its flaky texture and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate kringle in an airtight container for up to one week; this helps retain moisture while keeping it delicious.
Freezer: Freeze sliced kringle wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to one month; simply thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating: To enjoy warm slices, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes; add a light drizzle of cream for extra moisture if desired.
Homemade Almond Kringle Variations
Customize your Homemade Almond Kringle to match your mood or dietary preferences, and enjoy a delightful twist with every bite!
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Nut-Free: Substitute almonds with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a deliciously similar flavor profile. Your kringle will still taste nutty, just without the nuts!
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Fruit-Filled: Toss in finely chopped apples or pears mixed with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a juicy surprise. This fruit variation adds a refreshing sweetness that’ll remind you of cozy fall days.
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Chocolate Lovers: For those who crave a chocolatey treat, mix in mini chocolate chips into the almond filling. The rich, gooey morsels create a delightful contrast to the flaky pastry.
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Vegan Delight: Use plant-based butter and almond milk to make this kringle completely vegan. You won’t miss the dairy, but you might make it a new family favorite!
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Spiced Version: Add a dash of nutmeg or cinnamon to the almond filling for a warm, aromatic touch. The spices elevate the flavor, creating an indulgent experience with every slice.
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Citrus Zest: Brighten things up by folding in some fresh orange or lemon zest into the glaze. It adds a refreshing zing, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten sensitivities without sacrificing taste or texture.
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Caramel Drizzle: Instead of glaze, top your kringle with a luscious homemade caramel sauce. This extra sweetness will take your dessert experience to another level!
Expert Tips for Homemade Almond Kringle
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Chill Everything: Keep butter and ice water very cold to ensure a flaky pastry; warm ingredients can lead to tough dough.
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Check Dough Consistency: If your dough is sticky, add a little more flour while rolling it out; this will help maintain the shape and prevent tearing.
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Monitor Almonds: Keep a close eye while toasting the almonds—burnt nuts can ruin the flavor of your Homemade Almond Kringle, so toast until golden, not dark.
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Use a Thermometer: To achieve the perfect bake, check the internal temperature of the kringle; it should be around 200-210°F when done for the ideal texture.
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Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to try different fillings like chocolate chips or fruit; they can add a unique twist to your Homemade Almond Kringle.
What to Serve with Homemade Almond Kringle?
Indulging in a slice of kringle opens the door to many delightful pairings that elevate your dining experience.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits add a refreshing contrast to the rich, nutty flavor of the kringle.
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Strong Brewed Coffee: The robust flavor of coffee enhances the sweetness of the almond pastry, making for a cozy morning treat.
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Light Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy yogurt balances the sweetness, lending a delightful tanginess that complements each bite.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream adds a creamy softness that pairs beautifully with the flaky texture of the kringle—pure bliss in each scoop!
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Homemade Cherry Amaretto Jam: This sweet, tart jam brings another layer of flavor, enhancing the almond taste while adding a fruity twist.
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Sparkling Wine: The effervescence of sparkling wine brings a celebratory feel, making it a lovely match for brunch or dessert.
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Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea can cleanse the palate and complements the warming spices, bringing a soothing end to the meal.
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Toasted Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted nuts on the side adds a crunchy texture that pairs wonderfully with the soft layers of the kringle.
Homemade Almond Kringle Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting blanched slivered almonds?
Absolutely! Choose almonds that are uniform in color and free from any dark spots or blemishes. They should feel crisp and have a pleasant aroma. If possible, opt for raw, unsalted almonds to toast at home for the freshest flavor in your kringle.
How should I store my Homemade Almond Kringle?
To keep your Homemade Almond Kringle at its best, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to preserve it longer, refrigerate it for up to one week in an airtight container to retain its moisture and taste.
Can I freeze my Homemade Almond Kringle?
Yes, you can! Slice the kringle into portions, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to one month. To enjoy, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore its flaky goodness.
What if my kringle dough is too warm and sticky?
No worries! If your dough feels sticky or too warm, simply chill it for 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This cooling period allows the butter to solidify again, resulting in a nice, flaky texture when baked. If it’s still sticky after chilling, sprinkle a bit more flour while rolling it out.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, indeed! If you or your guests have nut allergies, you can easily adjust the recipe by substituting the almonds with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. For vegan options, use plant-based butter and almond milk, and for gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Always ensure to check labels for cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.
Decadent Homemade Almond Kringle That's Freezer-Friendly
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Cut in cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add very cold ice water until a dough forms, shape into a rectangle, wrap, and chill for 2 hours.
- Prepare the Filling: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Toast the blanched slivered almonds on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until golden and fragrant. Once cooled, grind them finely. In a saucepan, combine ground almonds, granulated sugar, heavy cream, all-purpose flour, almond extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat until thick for about 5-7 minutes. Allow it to cool completely.
- Assemble and Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Roll out the chilled dough into two large rectangles (about 12x18 inches each). Spread almond filling evenly on one rectangle, then place the other on top. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for 25-35 minutes until golden brown (internal temperature 200-210°F).
- Glaze and Finish: Cool the kringle on a wire rack for 10 minutes. In a mixing bowl, whisk together sifted powdered sugar and enough milk or heavy cream to achieve a smooth glaze. Drizzle it over the kringle and garnish with additional slivered almonds if desired.