Danish Kringle is a classic pastry with a long tradition. Known for its iconic shape that resembles a pretzel, this pastry is a staple in Danish baking and has won hearts around the globe. It features flaky layers that crunch satisfyingly with each bite, often made with fillings such as raspberry, marzipan, or remonce which is a creamy mixture of butter and sugar typical in Danish pastries.
This pretzel-like shape is not just visually appealing but also practical, allowing for even cooking and optimal filling distribution. Whether it’s served at a holiday party or enjoyed with a warm drink on a cold morning, Danish Kringle is synonymous with hygge, comfort, and joy.
Danish Kringle Made in Denmark
The Background
Originating in Denmark in the 1800s, Danish Kringle was first made by skilled bakers who were experts at creating flaky, buttery pastries. These bakers were part of a long tradition in Danish pastry-making that dates back to the Middle Ages when the bakeries of Europe improved the art of baking. As Denmark moved through its agricultural and culinary landscapes, ingredients such as butter and flour became staples in local baking. This pastry emerged not just from skilled craftsmanship but also from the Danish love for celebrating festive seasons and community gatherings with special foods.
Kringle quickly became embedded in Danish culture as a symbol of hospitality and celebration, often enjoyed during Christmas and other major holidays. Each region in Denmark might have slight variations of the Kringle, showcasing local flavors and preferences, which enriched the diversity of the pastry’s forms and fillings.
By the time Danish immigrants started settling in America, Kringle had already undergone several evolutions, becoming a refined example of Danish baking that was ready to find a new audience abroad.
Racine, Wisconsin, in particular, became known for its superbly made Danish Kringles. Here, the tradition has been kept alive by bakeries that still use these old-fashioned methods to create the pastry.
Among the most beloved varieties of this pastry are the almond Danish kringle, which is filled with a smooth, sweet almond paste, and the Danish kringle pecan, which includes a filling of rich pecans bound by a syrupy glaze.
Making the Danish Kringle involves a meticulous process where the dough is carefully rolled and layered with butter, then folded repeatedly to ensure the pastry achieves its characteristic texture. This labor-intensive process is key to producing the pastry’s delightful layers that pastry enthusiasts adore.
Finding the Best Danish Kringle in the US
Racine, Wisconsin is often mentioned as the top destination for those looking for authentic Danish Kringle in the United States. The bakeries here seem to be renowned for their faithful adherence to traditional Danish baking techniques. However, Danish Kringle can also be found in other bakeries across the U.S., where bakers take pride in using recipes passed down through generations.
But as a Dane, when I look at the appearance, of those made in Racine, Wisconsin, they do not look like a traditional Danish Kringle, However, I have never tried a US-made one, so I can’t tell you if the one from Racine is any good, but they look different. They do not seem to have the same flaky layers with the familiar crunch, and they look softer than what I am used to getting from a Danish bakery.
The Danish Kringle is perfect when paired with a cup of hot coffee or tea. It’s ideal for a range of occasions—from a morning treat to a snack during the day or even as a dessert. The pastry’s versatility and delicious taste also make it an excellent host gift during the holiday season, often enjoyed for its ability to bring a bit of Danish tradition to any celebration.
Danish Kringle is available at many bakeries throughout Denmark, often featured in well-known establishments in major cities. These bakeries, favored by locals and tourists alike, sells this traditional pastry to those eager to try its unique taste.