Homemade Almond Kringle Recipe

An Almond Kringle is a very special Danish pastry that many people in America love to eat for breakfast. It is a large buttery treat shaped like a big oval. It has a sweet nut filling and a white glaze that makes everyone very happy to eat.

Almond kringle is one of those desserts that feels special the moment it comes out of the oven. The layers are light and flaky. The almond filling is soft and sweet. The glaze melts into every fold and crack. This is the kind of treat you make when you want something comforting but still impressive.

Kringle may look fancy, but it is very doable at home. You do not need special tools or hard to find ingredients. With a little time and care, you can make a bakery style almond kringle right in your own kitchen.

If you enjoy almond desserts, this pairs beautifully with other almond favorites like Almond Croissant Cinnamon Rolls or a rich slice of White Chocolate Almond Amaretto Cheesecake.

What Makes Almond Kringle So Special

Almond kringle stands out because of its texture. The dough bakes into soft layers that pull apart easily. Inside, the almond filling stays creamy and lightly sweet. The top glaze adds just enough sweetness without taking over.

Another reason people love kringle is how balanced it feels. It is not heavy like cake and not crisp like cookies. Each bite feels light but still satisfying.

This recipe also allows room for patience. The dough rests. The filling spreads slowly. The baking time fills your kitchen with a warm almond smell that feels calm and cozy.

Ingredients You Will Need

For the Dough

2 cups all purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter cold and cut into small pieces
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 quarter teaspoon salt
1 half cup cold water

For the Almond Filling

1 cup almond flour
1 half cup powdered sugar
1 large egg white
1 teaspoon almond extract
2 tablespoons unsalted butter softened

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 half teaspoon almond extract

Optional Topping

2 tablespoons sliced almonds

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the dough base

In a large bowl, add the flour, sugar, and salt. Stir gently to mix. Add the cold butter pieces. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the flour until the mixture looks crumbly. You want some butter pieces to stay visible. This helps create flaky layers later.

Slowly pour in the cold water. Stir with a spoon until the dough starts to come together. It will look rough and slightly sticky. That is normal.

Step 2: Shape and rest the dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently press it into a rectangle. Do not knead it like bread. Just shape it until it holds together.

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for at least one hour. This rest time helps the butter stay cold and improves the texture when baked.

Step 3: Make the almond filling

In a medium bowl, add the almond flour and powdered sugar. Stir until combined. Add the softened butter and mix until smooth.

Add the egg white and almond extract. Stir slowly until the filling becomes creamy and spreadable. The texture should be soft but not runny.

Set the filling aside at room temperature.

Step 4: Roll out the dough

After chilling, place the dough on a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a long rectangle about one quarter inch thick. Take your time here. If the dough cracks, gently press it back together.

The rectangle does not need to be perfect. Just aim for even thickness.

Step 5: Spread the almond filling

Spoon the almond filling down the center of the dough. Spread it evenly, leaving a few inches of dough clear on each side.

Use the back of a spoon to smooth the filling. Try to keep it centered so the folds cover it evenly.

Step 6: Fold the kringle

Fold one long side of the dough over the filling. Then fold the other side over so they overlap slightly. Gently press the seam to seal.

Carefully transfer the kringle to a parchment lined baking sheet. Shape it into a long oval or loop if you like.

Step 7: Chill again before baking

Place the shaped kringle back into the fridge for thirty minutes. This step helps the dough hold its shape and bake evenly.

While it chills, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 8: Bake the kringle

Bake the kringle for twenty five to thirty minutes. The top should turn a light golden brown. The edges should look crisp but not dark.

Remove from the oven and let it cool on the pan for about ten minutes.

Step 9: Prepare the glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract. The glaze should be smooth and thick but still pourable.

If it feels too thick, add a teaspoon of milk at a time. If it feels too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.

Step 10: Glaze and finish

Drizzle the glaze over the warm kringle. Let it drip naturally over the sides. Sprinkle sliced almonds on top if using.

Allow the glaze to set for ten minutes before slicing.

Helpful Tips for Success

• Use cold butter for the dough. Warm butter will melt too fast and change the texture.
• Do not rush the resting steps. They help the layers bake correctly.
• Spread the filling evenly to avoid leaks during baking.
• Let the kringle cool slightly before glazing so the glaze stays smooth.

How to Store Almond Kringle

Store leftover kringle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, place it in the fridge for up to five days. Warm slices gently before serving.

You can also freeze kringle without glaze. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to one month. Thaw at room temperature and glaze fresh.

Variations to Try

• Add a thin layer of raspberry jam under the almond filling.
• Use vanilla extract instead of almond for a softer flavor.
• Top with toasted almonds for extra crunch.
• Add a light lemon glaze for a bright twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is almond kringle made of?

Almond kringle is made with flaky dough, almond filling, and a sweet glaze. The texture is soft and layered.

Can I make almond kringle ahead of time?

Yes. You can prepare the dough and filling a day ahead. Assemble and bake fresh for best results.

Why did my kringle spread too much?

This usually happens if the dough was too warm. Chilling before baking helps prevent spreading.

Is almond kringle very sweet?

It is gently sweet. The almond flavor stays balanced and not overpowering.

A Sweet Finish Worth Sharing

Homemade almond kringle is one of those recipes that feels rewarding from start to finish. The process is calm. The result feels special. Every slice brings flaky layers, soft almond filling, and just enough sweetness to make people smile.

Whether you serve it with coffee, share it during the holidays, or enjoy a quiet slice at home, this kringle always feels like a treat made with care. Once you try it, it often becomes a recipe people ask for again and again.