Danish Kringle Pastry

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Danish Kringle Pastry.

1. Step 1

   Begin by assembling all your ingredients on a clean countertop, creating a tidy workspace for your baking adventure.

2. Step 2

   In a food processor, blend the flour and salt together with a few quick pulses until well combined.

3. Step 3

   Next, introduce the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture, pulsing until the texture resembles small pea-sized crumbs, a sign that your dough is on the right track.

4. Step 4

   Gently fold in the sour cream, pulsing until a sticky dough forms, ready for its next step.

5. Step 5

   Wrap this dough snugly in plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least eight hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up beautifully.

6. Step 6

   When you're ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, setting the stage for your delicious creation.

7. Step 7

   For the filling, take a medium bowl and add the egg yolk, reserving the egg white for later.

8. Step 8

   Mix in the cream cheese, brown sugar, and cinnamon, then beat with an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

9. Step 9

   Gently fold in the toasted walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the filling.

10. Step 10

    Divide the chilled dough into two equal portions.

11. Step 11

    On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a rectangle measuring 10x12 inches, creating a perfect canvas for your filling.

12. Step 12

    Spoon half of the creamy filling down the center of each rectangle, leaving a generous 4-inch space in the middle.

13. Step 13

    On either side of the filling, make eight horizontal cuts into the unfilled pastry, creating strips that will form the braid.

14. Step 14

    Starting from the top, fold each strip over the filling, alternating sides as you go to create a beautiful braided effect.

15. Step 15

    Press the ends to seal and tuck them under for a polished finish.

16. Step 16

    Place the braided pastries on your prepared baking sheet, ready for their golden transformation.

17. Step 17

    In a small bowl, whisk the reserved egg white with a tablespoon of water until smooth, then brush this mixture evenly over each braid, giving them a lovely sheen.

18. Step 18

    Bake the kringles in your preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until they turn a delightful golden brown.

19. Step 19

    Once baked, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 30 minutes, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

20. Step 20

    While the pastries cool, prepare a simple glaze by mixing confectioners' sugar with two tablespoons of water in a small bowl until it reaches a smooth, drizzle-worthy consistency.

21. Step 21

    Once the kringles have cooled, drizzle the glaze generously over the top and finish with a sprinkle of the remaining toasted walnuts, adding a final touch of crunch and flavor.

22. Step 22

    Enjoy your homemade pastries, a delightful treat that’s sure to impress!.