Hey there! I’m Emeli, and let me tell you about the day I fell in love with almond kringle. I was traveling through Denmark, wandering through a small bakery in Copenhagen, when the scent of butter and almonds stopped me in my tracks. The baker handed me a warm slice of kringle, and with one bite of that flaky, delicate pastry filled with sweet almond cream, I was hooked. But here’s the thing: Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle seemed impossible to recreate at home until I spent years perfecting this recipe.
If you’ve ever felt intimidated by fancy European pastries or thought they were reserved for professional bakers, I’m here to change your mind. This Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle delivers bakery-worthy results with straightforward techniques that any home cook can master. As someone who’s tested this recipe countless times in my own kitchen (and shared it with the FoodFansy community), I promise you’ll achieve that perfect balance of buttery, flaky layers and rich almond filling.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything: choosing quality ingredients, mastering the pastry technique, creating that signature almond filling, and troubleshooting common issues. Let’s bring a piece of Scandinavian tradition into your kitchen.
Why This Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle Recipe Works
There’s a reason this Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle has become a favorite among my readers. It strikes that perfect balance between impressive presentation and approachable technique, making it ideal for both special occasions and weekend baking projects.
- Uses simple, affordable ingredients you likely already have: Unlike some pastries that require specialty items, this recipe relies on butter, flour, sugar, almonds, and eggs—pantry staples that create extraordinary results.
- Achieves bakery-quality flakiness without laminating dough: Traditional Danish pastries require hours of folding and chilling, but this streamlined method delivers similar texture in a fraction of the time.
- Perfect for holidays, brunches, or gifting: The stunning oval ring shape makes this kringle an impressive centerpiece, yet it’s forgiving enough for bakers of all skill levels.
- Customizable filling allows endless variations: Once you master the basic almond filling, you can experiment with different extracts, fruits, or spices to make this recipe your own.
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle
The secret to exceptional Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle lies in ingredient quality and selection. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that signature flaky texture and rich almond flavor.
Best Ingredients for This Recipe
Butter: Use high-quality, unsalted European-style butter with higher fat content (around 82-84%). The extra fat creates superior flakiness and richer flavor. Keep it very cold I often freeze my butter for 15 minutes before using it. The cold butter creates steam pockets during baking, resulting in those coveted flaky layers.
Almond Flour: Fine-blanched almond flour works best for smooth, cohesive filling. Avoid almond meal, which has a coarser texture with skin pieces that can make the filling grainy. Look for brands like Bob’s Red Mill or make your own by finely grinding blanched almonds.
All-Purpose Flour: Standard all-purpose flour provides the right protein content for tender yet structured pastry. Avoid bread flour, which would make the dough too tough.
Buying Tips
When shopping for your Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle ingredients, freshness matters. Check the expiration date on almond flour, as almonds contain oils that can turn rancid. Store almond flour in the refrigerator or freezer to extend its shelf life. For butter, European brands like Kerrygold, Plugrá, or President deliver noticeably better flavor and texture. Choose pure almond extract rather than imitation the depth of flavor is worth the extra dollar or two.
Substitutions
Almond flour alternatives: If you have a nut allergy, try finely ground sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a different but delicious filling. The texture won’t be identical, but you’ll still achieve a satisfying pastry.
Butter substitutes: While I don’t recommend it for best results, you can use cold margarine or plant-based butter sticks in the pastry dough. However, the flavor and flakiness won’t quite match real butter. For the filling, softened coconut oil can replace butter, adding a subtle tropical note.
Sugar options: Swap granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a caramel-like depth, or use a sugar substitute like erythritol for a lower-carb version of this Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle.
Ingredients & Prep for Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle
Proper preparation is the foundation of successful pastry-making. Taking time to prep your ingredients correctly will make the actual assembly smooth and stress-free.
Pastry Prep Essentials
The key to flaky pastry is keeping everything cold and handling the dough minimally. Start by cutting your butter into small cubes and returning them to the freezer while you measure your flour. When mixing the dough, work quickly to prevent the butter from warming up this is what creates those beautiful layers as the butter melts and steams during baking.
Critical techniques: Keep your butter very cold throughout the entire process. If your kitchen is warm, chill your mixing bowl and even your flour in the refrigerator for 20 minutes before starting. Avoid over-mixing the dough; you want to see small pieces of butter throughout, which will create pockets of flakiness. After forming the dough, let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before shaping. This rest period allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to work with and preventing shrinkage during baking.
Almond Filling
This is where the magic happens in your Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle. The filling should be smooth, spreadable, and intensely almond-flavored.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup almond flour (finely ground)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup softened butter (not melted, but room temperature)
- 1 tsp pure almond extract
- 1 egg white, lightly beaten
Beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about two minutes. This incorporates air and creates a lighter filling. Add the almond flour and mix until combined, then stir in the almond extract and egg white. The egg white binds everything together and helps the filling set during baking. Let the filling rest for 10 minutes before using this allows the almond flour to absorb moisture and intensifies the flavor.
Pantry Staples
For your Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle, gather these essentials:
- Butter: You’ll need about ¾ cup total (half for the dough, plus ¼ cup for filling)
- Flour: 2 cups all-purpose flour for the pastry base
- Sugar: ½ cup for filling, plus extra for sprinkling
- Almonds: Either almond flour for the filling or sliced almonds for topping
- Vanilla extract: Optional but adds complexity to the pastry dough
- Eggs: One egg white for the filling, plus one whole egg for egg wash
Having everything measured and ready before you start makes the process seamless and enjoyable.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle
Now comes the fun part assembling your beautiful pastry. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have a stunning Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle that rivals any European bakery.
Pre-Cooking Prep – Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is crucial too hot and the outside will brown before the inside cooks; too cool and you won’t achieve proper flakiness. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even browning on the bottom.
Roll out your chilled dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 12 by 16 inches. Don’t worry about perfect edges rustic charm is part of kringle’s appeal. If the dough resists or springs back, let it rest for five minutes and try again. Transfer the rolled dough to your prepared baking sheet.
Cooking Method – Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle
Spread the prepared almond filling down the center third of your dough rectangle, leaving about two inches of space on each side. The filling should be about one inch thick resist the temptation to overfill, as it can leak during baking.
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, make diagonal cuts along both sides of the dough, creating strips about one inch wide. These will become the signature braided appearance. Starting from one end, fold the strips over the filling, alternating sides and overlapping slightly to create a braided effect. Don’t pull too tight, as the dough needs room to expand.
Shape the filled and braided dough into an oval ring by connecting the ends and pinching them together to seal. Brush the entire surface with beaten egg for a beautiful golden finish. If desired, sprinkle with sliced almonds or pearl sugar for extra texture and visual appeal.
Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through for even browning. The exact time depends on your oven and the thickness of your dough.
Doneness Check – Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle
Your Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle is ready when the pastry turns a deep golden brown color, not pale yellow. The filling should bubble slightly around the edges this indicates the butter has melted and the filling has set properly. If you gently tap the side, it should sound hollow rather than dense.
If the top is browning too quickly but the pastry isn’t fully cooked, tent it loosely with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part should register around 190°F for perfectly baked pastry.
Resting – Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle
This step is non-negotiable: let your kringle cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before glazing. During this time, the filling sets and the pastry structure firms up. If you glaze too soon, the heat will melt the glaze into a runny mess. If you wait too long, the pastry won’t absorb the glaze properly.
While it cools, prepare a simple glaze by whisking together one cup of powdered sugar with two to three tablespoons of milk or cream, adding liquid gradually until you reach a thick but pourable consistency. Add a quarter teaspoon of almond extract to echo the filling’s flavor. Drizzle the glaze over the warm (not hot) kringle in a zigzag pattern for that classic bakery appearance.
Pro Tips for Perfect Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle
After making this Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle dozens of times, I’ve learned tricks that guarantee success every single time.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Tough, dense pastry: This happens when the dough is overworked or the butter wasn’t cold enough. Remember, you want to see visible butter pieces in your dough they’re what create flakiness. Mix just until the dough comes together, even if it looks shaggy. Handle it gently and work quickly.
Leaking filling: If your filling oozes out during baking, you either overfilled the pastry or didn’t seal the edges properly. Use only the amount of filling specified, and press those braided strips firmly to seal. Chilling the assembled kringle for 15 minutes before baking also helps the butter firm up and prevents leaks.
Soggy bottom: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking. Place the baking sheet on the middle rack where heat circulation is best. Using parchment paper helps, but you can also place a second baking sheet underneath for extra insulation and more even heat distribution.
Tool Recommendations for Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle
Rolling pin: A French-style rolling pin (without handles) gives you better control and feel for the dough’s thickness.
Pastry brush: Silicone brushes work well and are easier to clean than natural bristles. Keep one dedicated to savory cooking and another for baking.
Bench scraper: This inexpensive tool makes transferring dough and cleaning your work surface effortless. It’s also perfect for cutting those diagonal strips.
Parchment paper: Don’t skip this. It prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. I buy pre-cut sheets in bulk.
Storage & Reheating
Store your Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle covered at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to five days. The pastry will soften slightly when refrigerated but still tastes delicious. To restore some crispness, reheat individual slices in a 325°F oven for five to seven minutes.
For longer storage, freeze the baked and cooled (but not glazed) kringle wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, warm in the oven, then glaze before serving. You can also freeze the assembled but unbaked kringle just add five to ten minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen.
Flavor Variations for Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle
Once you’ve mastered the classic version, these creative twists on Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle will keep your baking exciting.
Chocolate Almond Twist
Fold three tablespoons of cocoa powder into your almond filling, or spread a thin layer of chocolate-hazelnut spread under the almond filling for double chocolate intensity. Drizzle with both vanilla and chocolate glaze for a stunning marbled effect. This version is especially popular with kids and makes a decadent breakfast treat or dessert.
Seasonal Fruit Additions
Add a layer of preserves beneath the almond filling. Cherry or raspberry jam creates a beautiful flavor contrast with the sweet almonds. In fall, try apple butter with a pinch of cinnamon. Use thick, high-quality preserves to avoid excess moisture that could make the pastry soggy. Spread just a thin layer about two to three tablespoons total.
Global Flavors
Cardamom-Orange: Add half a teaspoon of ground cardamom and the zest of one orange to the filling for a Scandinavian-inspired variation. This subtle spicing is traditional in Nordic baking and pairs beautifully with almonds.
Pistachio-Rose: Replace half the almond flour with finely ground pistachios and add a quarter teaspoon of rose water to the filling. Use chopped pistachios as topping instead of almonds. This Middle Eastern-inspired version is elegant and unexpected.
Maple-Pecan: Swap almond extract for maple extract, replace one tablespoon of sugar with maple syrup, and add chopped toasted pecans to the filling. This American twist is perfect for autumn baking.
Flavor Variation Comparison Table
| Variation | Key Addition | Best Season | Difficulty Level | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Almond | Pure almond extract | Year-round | Beginner | Sweet, nutty, buttery |
| Chocolate Almond | 3 tbsp cocoa powder | Year-round | Beginner | Rich, indulgent, slightly bitter |
| Cherry Almond | ¼ cup cherry preserves | Summer | Easy | Fruity, tart, sweet |
| Cardamom-Orange | ½ tsp cardamom + orange zest | Fall/Winter | Easy | Warm, citrusy, aromatic |
| Pistachio-Rose | Ground pistachios + rose water | Spring | Intermediate | Floral, delicate, exotic |
| Maple-Pecan | Maple extract + chopped pecans | Fall | Easy | Earthy, caramel-like, rustic |
Serving Suggestions for Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle
Your beautiful Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle deserves to be presented and paired thoughtfully for maximum enjoyment.
Serve slices of kringle alongside freshly whipped cream lightly sweetened with vanilla, or offer crème fraîche for a sophisticated tangy contrast. A scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms this breakfast pastry into an elegant dessert. For brunch, pair with fresh berries strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add brightness that cuts through the richness.
Coffee is the classic beverage pairing. The pastry’s buttery sweetness complements a medium-roast coffee beautifully, while espresso’s intensity stands up to the almond richness. For tea drinkers, try Earl Grey or a floral jasmine tea. If serving as dessert, a dessert wine like Moscato d’Asti or a late-harvest Riesling echoes the pastry’s sweetness without overwhelming it. For a special occasion, champagne or prosecco adds celebratory elegance.
Present your kringle on a cake stand or wooden board, garnished with fresh mint leaves and dusted with powdered sugar just before serving. Cut into generous slices this isn’t the time for restraint. The oval ring shape makes it easy to serve, and watching someone take their first bite of your homemade Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle never gets old.
FAQs About Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough for Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle actually benefits from resting. Prepare it up to two days in advance and refrigerate, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. You can also freeze the dough for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before rolling and shaping. Cold dough is actually easier to work with than room-temperature dough.
Why did my kringle turn out tough instead of flaky?
This typically happens from overworking the dough or using butter that wasn’t cold enough. The gluten in flour develops when you mix and knead, creating structure that’s great for bread but undesirable in pastry. Mix your Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle dough just until it comes together, handle it minimally, and keep everything cold. If your kitchen is warm, work in short sessions and return the dough to the refrigerator between steps.
Can I use a stand mixer instead of mixing by hand?
Yes, but use caution. Mix on low speed with the paddle attachment and stop as soon as the dough comes together. A stand mixer makes it easy to accidentally overwork pastry dough, so watch carefully and err on the side of under-mixing. Many bakers prefer making this dough by hand with a pastry cutter for better control.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
Seal those braided strips firmly by pressing the dough together where they overlap. Don’t overfill more is not better in this case. Leave adequate space between the filling and the edges of the dough. Chilling the assembled kringle for 15 minutes before baking helps the butter firm up and creates a better seal. Make sure your oven is fully preheated so the pastry sets quickly.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
While Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle involves several steps, each technique is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Your first attempt might not look magazine-perfect, but it will taste incredible. The braiding is forgiving—even if the strips don’t line up perfectly, the finished pastry will still be beautiful and delicious. Start on a weekend when you have time to work without rushing, and don’t be afraid to embrace imperfection.
Can I reduce the sugar for a less sweet version?
You can reduce the sugar in the filling by up to one-quarter without significantly affecting texture, though it will be less traditional. However, don’t eliminate sugar from the pastry dough entirely, as it contributes to browning and flavor. For a less sweet overall experience, skip the glaze or use a very light drizzle.
Conclusion
Creating your own Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle is one of those rewarding kitchen accomplishments that seems impressive but becomes second nature after you’ve made it once or twice. The combination of flaky, buttery pastry and rich almond filling brings a touch of European elegance to any occasion, whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch, celebrating a special breakfast, or simply treating yourself on a lazy Sunday morning.
Remember that story I shared about falling in love with kringle in that Copenhagen bakery? The beautiful thing about learning to make it yourself is that you no longer need to travel across the ocean for that experience. You can create that same magic in your own kitchen, filling your home with the incredible aroma of butter and almonds, and sharing slices with the people you love.
Don’t wait for the perfect occasion make this weekend your kringle weekend. Fire up your oven, gather your ingredients, and embrace the process. Even if your first attempt isn’t perfect (mine certainly wasn’t!), you’ll still have a delicious pastry that’s infinitely better than anything store-bought.
The FoodFansy community has fallen in love with this recipe, and I know you will too. Join the thousands of home bakers who’ve discovered the joy of homemade kringle and share your results with us! Tag your creations and let me know which flavor variation becomes your favorite.
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends or save it for later! I’d love to see your unique twist feel free to post your photos on Pinterest!
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Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle – Perfect Flaky Pastry Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 1 large kringle 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A soft, flaky, buttery Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle perfect for breakfast, dessert, or gifting.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cold butter
1/2 cup water
1 cup almond flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 egg white
1 tsp almond extract
1/4 cup softened butter
1 tsp vanilla
Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tbsp milk
Instructions
1. Mix flour and cold butter until crumbly.
2. Add water and form the dough.
3. Spread dough into a long oval on baking sheet.
4. Mix almond filling ingredients until creamy.
5. Spread filling over the center of dough.
6. Fold sides in and shape into a ring.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 22–25 minutes.
8. Whisk glaze ingredients and drizzle over cooled kringle.
Notes
You may add sliced almonds for extra crunch.
Use pure almond extract for best flavor.
Warm before serving for a fresh-baked texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Pastry
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Danish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 10
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Easy Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle, almond pastry, Danish kringle