ULTIMATE HOMEMADE ALMOND KRINGLE: FLAKY PASTRY BLISS AT HOME

If you love classic bakery pastries, this Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle deserves a spot in your kitchen. The moment you slice into this flaky, buttery pastry, you understand why almond kringle has been treasured for generations. It looks impressive, tastes rich, and feels like a cozy treat made for slow mornings and special moments.

This Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle brings bakery flavor straight to your oven without fancy tools or stress. The dough bakes up light and crisp, while the almond filling stays creamy and full of flavor. A simple glaze on top finishes everything with just the right touch of sweetness. It is the kind of pastry that feels special but still doable at home.

I love making this kringle on weekends when the house is quiet and the oven warmth fills the kitchen. It pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or even as a light dessert after dinner. The recipe may look long, but each step is simple and forgiving. You do not need professional skills, just patience and good butter.

Whether you are baking for guests, holidays, or just yourself, this Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle delivers comfort and elegance in every bite. Once you try it, you will understand why people come back to this pastry again and again.


WHAT MAKES THIS ULTIMATE HOMEMADE ALMOND KRINGLE SPECIAL?

This recipe stands out for a few very good reasons.

First, the dough creates true flaky layers without complicated folding. A simple chill and roll method keeps it manageable for home bakers.

Second, the almond filling uses real almond paste for deep flavor. It tastes rich without being heavy or overly sweet.

Third, the kringle shape allows even baking. The pastry cooks evenly, so you get crisp edges and a soft center every time.

Fourth, the glaze is quick and flexible. You can keep it light or thick depending on your mood.

Finally, this recipe works well ahead of time. You can prep parts early and bake fresh when needed, which saves stress (especially during holidays).


INGREDIENT NOTES

Here is why each key ingredient matters and how you can adjust if needed.

  • All-purpose flour
    This gives the pastry structure. Bread flour can work, but the texture will be slightly chewier.

  • Unsalted butter
    Cold butter is essential for flaky layers. Use high-quality butter for best flavor (European-style works great).

  • Cream cheese
    Adds tenderness to the dough and makes it easier to roll.

  • Almond paste
    The heart of the filling. Do not replace with almond extract alone. If needed, you can mix ground almonds with sugar as a substitute.

  • Granulated sugar
    Sweetens the filling without overpowering the almond flavor.

  • Egg
    Binds the filling and adds richness.

  • Powdered sugar
    Used for the glaze. Sifts easily and creates a smooth finish.

  • Milk or cream
    Adjusts glaze thickness. Dairy-free milk works well too.

Special equipment:
You only need a rolling pin, baking sheet, parchment paper, and a sharp knife.


HOW TO MAKE ULTIMATE HOMEMADE ALMOND KRINGLE

  1. Prepare the dough
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix flour and cold cubed butter until crumbly. Add cream cheese and mix gently until a soft dough forms (do not overwork it).

  2. Chill the dough
    Shape the dough into a rectangle, wrap tightly, and chill for 30 minutes. This keeps the butter cold and helps create flaky layers.

  3. Roll the dough
    Roll the chilled dough into a 10×14-inch rectangle on lightly floured surface. Keep the dough cold; chill again if it softens.

  4. Make the almond filling
    In a bowl, mix almond paste, sugar, egg, and a splash of vanilla until smooth. The texture should be spreadable, not runny.

  5. Fill and shape
    Spread filling down the center lengthwise, leaving edges clear. Fold the sides over the filling, then shape into an oval ring on parchment-lined baking sheet.

  6. Bake
    Bake for 22 to 25 minutes until golden brown. The pastry should feel firm and look lightly crisp.

  7. Cool and glaze
    Let cool for 15 minutes. Mix powdered sugar with milk and drizzle over the top. Allow glaze to set before slicing.


STORAGE OPTIONS

Room temperature:
Store loosely covered for up to 2 days.

Refrigeration:
Keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring to room temp before serving.

Freezing:
Freeze baked and unglazed kringle for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and glaze fresh.

Reheating tips:
Warm slices in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible.


VARIATIONS AND SUBSTITUTIONS

  • Add sliced almonds on top before baking for extra crunch.

  • Use raspberry or cherry jam layered under the almond filling.

  • Make it dairy-free using plant-based butter and cream cheese.

  • Swap almond paste with hazelnut paste for a new flavor.

  • Add orange zest to the filling for a bright seasonal twist.


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the dough and filling one day ahead and assemble before baking.

Why is my dough cracking?
It may be too cold. Let it sit for 5 minutes before rolling.

Can I use puff pastry instead?
You can, but the texture will be different from classic kringle.

How do I know it is done baking?
The pastry should be golden and firm underneath.

Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes. Reduce filling sugar slightly without affecting structure.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Freeze slices individually for easy reheating.


CONCLUSION

This Ultimate Homemade Almond Kringle is one of those recipes that feels rewarding from start to finish. It fills your kitchen with warmth, smells incredible, and tastes even better. Do not rush the process. Enjoy it. If you try it, share your results and make it your own. Baking should always feel like a small celebration.


Print

ULTIMATE HOMEMADE ALMOND KRINGLE: FLAKY PASTRY BLISS AT HOME

This easy homemade almond kringle features flaky pastry, creamy almond filling, and a simple glaze. Perfect for breakfast or dessert.

  • Author: Sophia Bennett
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings

Ingredients

  • All-purpose flour

  • Unsalted butter

  • Cream cheese

  • Almond paste

  • Sugar

  • Egg

  • Powdered sugar

  • Milk

  • Vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Mix dough ingredients and chill.

  • Roll dough and spread almond filling.

  • Shape into ring and bake at 375°F.

  • Cool and glaze before serving.

Notes

Add fruit jam or nuts for variation. Chill dough if it softens.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 320
  • Fat: 19g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Protein: 6g

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating