What Is Kringle And What Does It Taste Like?
If you have ever been to a grocery store in the Midwest, particularly Wisconsin, chances are you have seen colorful, festive displays of Kringle boxes in the bakery section. But what, exactly, is Kringle? Strictly speaking, Kringle is a flaky, buttery Danish pastry filled with various fruits, nuts, and gourmet ingredients and baked into a large ring shape. Kringle is the official state pastry of Wisconsin. Inspired by sweet Scandanavian cuisine, Kringle was brought to the city of Racine in the late 1800's by immigrants from Denmark, according to Real Racine. The dessert became an instant hit in southeastern Wisconsin upon its arrival, and to this day, Sconnies simply cannot get enough of the local favorite.
The recipe has remained the same since its invention, being passed down generations, with the exception of new flavored fillings being added to the mouthwatering menu over the years. Each individual Kringle is crafted by hand with love and care by bakers in Racine, and the process is extremely time and labor intensive.
Fun fact: The name "Kringle" comes from knots and cleats in Scandinavian sailing lingo, according to Travel Wisconsin. It's a truly meaningful homage to the Danish heritage. Here's what else you should know about this popular treat.
How is Kringle made?
Kringle is made by dedicated artisan bakers at the Kringle factory in Racine, Wisconsin, which has become an iconic landmark in the Dairy State. Each and every Kringle takes more than three days to make from start to finish — but they are always worth the wait.
The first step in making a Kringle, according to the Kringle website, is forming the traditional flaky Danish dough, which is a mixture of butter and flour kneaded and hand folded several times until there are an astounding 81 super thin layers stacked on top of one another. The dough then rests for three days in order for the delicate texture to settle. After the 72 hours is up, the dough is ready to go! It's then stuffed with the signature filling and molded into its traditional ovular ring shape. The Kringle rings are baked until golden brown and crispy, then drizzled with white icing like an authentic Danish pastry. Last but not least, they are carefully boxed up and shipped out to stores or customers! Kringle stays good for about five days at room temperature or up to six months in the freezer.
What does Kringle taste like?
First and foremost, let's talk texture. Danish pastry is known for its delicate look and feel, as well as its multiple layers. When you take a bite of Kringle, you will notice that each flaky piece quite literally melts in your mouth. The texture is not too chewy or doughy, not too brittle or firm.
And then, there's the best part: the filling. Oh, the filling! So much to be sung about here. Kringle comes in a wide variety of incredible filling flavors, ranging from traditional fruits, to savory-sweet nuts, to more specialty "gourmet" options that complement modern tastes and food trends. Among the most popular Kringle flavors are (*takes deep breath*): almond, praline pecan, walnut, apple cinnamon, apricot, blueberry, cherry, lemon poppyseed, raspberry, strawberry, strawberry rhubarb, Bavarian crème, birthday cake, chocolate chip, cinnamon, coconut, key lime, and salted caramel cheesecake (via Racine Danish Kringles). Popular seasonal flavors include pumpkin, turtle, and cranberry, which are perfect for the holidays. Yum!
P.S. If you are in search of a new, extra cozy breakfast idea, every single Kringle flavor tastes incredible paired with your morning cup of coffee.
Where can you buy Kringle?
Kringle can be found in the bakery section of many grocery stores. You can also head on over to the official Kringle website to order a batch or two online and have it delivered straight to your doorstep. And the best news is that they are shipped all over the world, so your friends across the pond can get a true taste of Wisconsin! If you fall in love, you can sign up to become a member of the Kringle of the Month Club to try a new and delicious flavor each month. It also makes an affordable, meaningful gift for the other Kringle advocates in your life. No matter which flavor you indulge in, you and your family will relish in each and every nostalgic, tasty bite — guaranteed. Skol!