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Walking into Trader Joe’s during the holiday season is like stepping into a hub of festive cheer, with vibrant seasonal offerings at every turn. The aisles are filled with scents of cinnamon, gingerbread, and pine, creating an irresistible atmosphere. This isn’t just another pastry—it’s an experience that embodies the warmth and indulgence of the season, evoking memories of classic holiday gatherings and cozy winter mornings.
The Kringle: A Unique Shape, A Flavor Surprise
The Almond Kringle Danish from Trader Joe’s is a standout not only for its flavor but also for its unique presentation. You’ll find it in the bakery stand, right by the pies and other baked goodies. It comes packaged in a large, flat, white wrapper, adding an element of mystery since you can’t see the pastry until it’s opened.
Flat, Round and Delicious!
When unwrapped, you’re greeted with a round, very flat pastry that’s unlike the tall, puffy Danish pastries we typically see. Its flatness, however, is part of its charm—it’s a deliberate design that helps concentrate all the buttery, almond goodness in each bite. The pastry is incredibly flaky and delicate, while the almond filling is rich, smooth, and decadent, providing a perfect contrast of textures that keeps you coming back for more. This wreath of buttery, flaky goodness is a delightful centerpiece that feels both rustic and luxurious.
An Authentic Danish Tradition
The Kringle isn’t just a pastry; it’s a piece of culinary history. Crafted by a four-generation family bakery established in 1949 by Christian Olesen, this Kringle embodies true Danish expertise passed down through decades. Each Kringle takes three full days to make, ensuring an exceptional taste and texture that honors the craft of traditional Danish baking. The careful process begins with layering buttery dough, followed by letting it rest, rise, and develop flavor over time.
The result is a pastry that’s richly flavorful yet light and flaky. The almond-flavored filling adds to the authenticity, offering a creamy sweetness that harmonizes perfectly with the layers of dough. This isn’t just a snack—it’s an experience that carries with it the dedication and love of a family devoted to the craft of baking.
A Flavorful First Bite
Marzipan can be a polarizing ingredient—some love it, while others are unsure. Personally, I wasn’t certain what to expect from the Almond Kringle Danish, especially given marzipan’s distinct almond flavor. However, I was completely hooked when I took that first bite. The almond flavor is rich, bold, and just a little bit bitter—but in the best way possible.
That slight bitterness, paired with the smooth, sweet creaminess of the filling, gives the Kringle an unexpectedly sophisticated depth. It’s the kind of pastry that makes you slow down and savor each bite, appreciating the layers of flavor.
Recently, we served the Kringle to our friends Zack and Monica alongside another popular seasonal treat—the Costco pumpkin cheesecake. And while the cheesecake was undeniably delicious, the humble Kringle held its own, surprising everyone with its exceptional flavor and light, flaky texture. The Kringle stole the show, proving that simplicity and tradition can outshine even the most decadent competition.
Rich Scandinavian Heritage
The Kringle’s heritage dates back centuries, rooted in Scandinavian baking traditions. The name itself comes from the Old Norse word for “circle” or “ring,” reflecting the pastry’s original shape. Over time, kringles have taken many forms—ranging from pretzel-like twists to the flat, oval pastries we recognize today.
From Denmark to Wisconsin
When Danish immigrants brought the kringle to the United States, it became a beloved part of local culinary culture, especially in Wisconsin, where it has deep roots. In fact, the kringle became so popular in Wisconsin that it was officially designated as the state pastry in 2013.
Trader Joe’s Almond Kringle Danish pays homage to these traditions while adding its own special twist, combining authentic techniques with a modern holiday flair. The intricate, flaky layers and smooth almond filling speak to the craftsmanship that has made kringles a cherished treat for generations.
A Closer Look At The Ingredients
Of course, as tempting as the Almond Kringle Danish is, it’s always good to know what you’re indulging in. This pastry is crafted from high-quality ingredients that contribute to its amazing taste and texture. The main components include wheat flour, cane sugar, almonds, and a blend of creamy butter, which gives the pastry its characteristic flakiness. A drizzle of sugar icing and a touch of egg white glaze add just the right amount of sweetness to round out the flavors without overwhelming them.
The Caloric Price Tag Of The Kringle
While it’s definitely a treat, clocking in at around 230 calories per slice, it captures the holiday spirit perfectly. The combination of wholesome, traditional ingredients is what gives the Kringle its homemade, comforting flavor—perfect for an occasional indulgence that feels truly special.
Ways to Enjoy the Kringle
Though the Almond Kringle Danish is delicious as-is, there are a few ways to make it even more memorable. One simple yet effective way to enhance your Kringle experience is by warming it slightly. A few seconds in the microwave or a gentle warm-up in the oven can make the flaky pastry even more tender, and bring out the rich aroma of almonds and butter.
However, even at room temperature, the Kringle’s blend of crisp, flaky pastry and creamy almond filling makes it irresistible. There’s something about its simple yet rich flavors that makes each bite feel special, whether you’re enjoying it during a festive brunch or sneaking a slice for a midnight snack.
Is It Worth the Hype?
The short answer? Absolutely. At $9.99, the Almond Kringle Danish is an affordable luxury that brings festive joy to any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday brunch, gifting it to friends, or just enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, this Kringle delivers a warm, comforting feeling that embodies the best of the holiday season.
It’s the kind of treat that turns an ordinary moment into something memorable. And, as any Trader Joe’s aficionado knows, part of the fun is the thrill of discovering these seasonal gems before they’re gone. The Almond Kringle Danish is one of those treasures that’s worth every penny—bringing smiles and warm memories to everyone who tries it.
Pro Tip: Save Some for Later
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers—though, let’s be honest, that’s a big if—this Kringle freezes beautifully. To keep it fresh, you can wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Or you can stick the entire paper bag into the freezer and cut it up frozen when it’s time for a quick snack. The flatness of the Kringle actually makes it perfect for utilizing those freezer gaps!
Whether you’re treating yourself to a little post-holiday pick-me-up or sharing a slice with a friend, having some Kringle stashed away is always a good idea. This way, you can bring a little bit of that Trader Joe’s holiday magic to any day of the year, long after the seasonal displays have come and gone.
bitter? like tRump?