When Danish immigrants first started arriving in America to seek opportunities for their families, no one thought that we would be where we are today.  O&H Danish Bakeries in Wisconsin are proudly Danish and proudly American.  Through our iconic Kringles, we showcase the seamless blend of Danish culture with American life.  Rooted in Racine, where Danish settlers first made their home, our Racine Danish Kringle embodies tradition and innovation, symbolizing the journey of Danish-Americans in creating a new culinary legacy.

A Tale of Danish Culture and Racine Pastry

In the 1800s, Danish settlers sought refuge in America during the European Potato Famine.  Amidst a strike in Denmark’s Bakers Association in 1850, bakers from Vienna and Austria introduced new techniques.  Upon their return, Danish bakers fused these methods with traditional ingredients, birthing the beloved Danish pastries we know today.

As a result of this influx of Danish immigrants to America, a significant portion chose Racine as their new home, contributing to its vibrant cultural landscape.  By 1920, Racine could assert itself as “the most Danish city outside Denmark,” with a Danish minority of 13.7%, according to the US Census Bureau.

Anton Olesen’s American Dream

Inspired by the waves of Danish migration and struggling to sustain himself and his family, Anton Olesen decided that America provided endless opportunities for himself and his six children.  Two years after leaving Denmark, Anton had finally saved up enough to bring his teenage son, Christian Olesen and his five siblings to the USA to join him.

Anton was able to bring all of his children over and after spending $550 for the long trip, he only had $5 left to his name.  His children arrived just in time for Christmas and although he was short on money, he declared that this particular Christmas was the best he had ever had, because he was finally reunited with his children.

A short time later, Christian found a job at a local bakery in Racine, and after learning everything he could about the baking trade for 25 years, Christian opened O&H Danish Bakery in 1949. – and the rest, as they say, is history.

Exploring the Evolution of the Danish Kringle in America

As Danish and American cultures integrated, Racine customers started requesting more fillings in their pastries, especially in the Kringle.  To keep their customers happy and to learn more about the American people and their culture, bakers updated the traditional pretzel shape to an oval, accommodating even more tasty filling.  As more requests came, even more flavors and combinations were introduced in the 1950s.

Following decades of pastry innovation and flourishing throughout Wisconsin, the Kringle was officially designated as the State Pastry of Wisconsin in 2013.  Over a century since its inception in Racine, we take immense pride in our role within this vibrant history – a testament to dedication, cultural fusion, and the enduring legacy of a delectable treat that solidified Danish influence in America.

Our Racine bakery still uses the original Kringle recipe and baking methods, making everything from scratch.  Upholding the time-honored baking traditions passed down through generations of Olesens, we remain committed to crafting each Kringle by hand, employing the same meticulous three-day preparation process to ensure the irresistibly flaky pastry beloved by our customers.

O&H Bakery’s Danish American Pastries

Our Viking ancestors were incredible traders, world travelers, and experts at experiencing new cultures.  Embark on a culinary adventure with us through The Explorer’s Kringle Club!  Join our exclusive club and be the first to indulge in a tantalizing array of new Kringle flavors inspired by exotic ingredients and cultures from around the world.  As a VIP member, you’ll enjoy early access to these delectable creations—an entire week before anyone else.

The Wisconsin Kringle

To celebrate the Kringle’s crowning as the Wisconsin State Pastry, we created the aptly named Wisconsin Kringle.  This Kringle is available year-round and says everything you need to know about Wisconsin in a single bite.

Every ingredient is from Wisconsin!  The silky-smooth cream cheese, Door County Montmorency cherries, and fresh cranberries combine to create a true Wisconsin essence blend.  Creamy, sweet, and tart – this is the ultimate Wisconsin pastry.

The Red, White, and Blue Kringle

To honor our American culture, we created what we believe to be the ultimate Fourth of July Wisconsin treat.  This Red, White, and Blue Kringle is gloriously American and celebrates the coming together of Danish and American culture.

Our signature flaky pastry surrounds a delicious combination of cherries, blueberries, and cream cheese, reflecting American pride by using quality ingredients from Maine to our home state of Wisconsin.

The Key Lime Kringle

The Key Lime Kringle is a July exclusive that many customers look forward to all year.  This Kringle is refreshing and creamy, made with tart key lime juice.  When we first launched this flavor, we had no idea whether it would be a hit or miss.  However, here we are, many years later, with people still lining up to get their first Key Lime Kringle of the year.  It’s especially tasty as a cool treat right out of the fridge!

The Peach Cobbler Kringle

This Kringle is only available for a few end-of-summer weeks when sweet peaches thrive, but boy, is it worth the wait!  With a delectable butterscotch, cinnamon filling, and a sweet layer of peaches, this Peach Cobbler Kringle is baked with a crunchy streusel and drizzled with sweet white icing.  Serve it with a scoop of your preferred ice cream for your new favorite summer treat.

Authentic Danish-American Delights at O&H Danish Bakery

To experience the fascinating blend of Danish and American cultures, visit any of our five O&H Danish Bakery locations and treat yourself to one of our seasonal or everyday Kringle sensations, or explore our array of Danish pastries in Racine.  Whether you’re a new visitor or a familiar face, we’re delighted to welcome you with warmth and hospitality.  Rooted in tradition spanning four generations, our recipes promise the highest quality and authentic taste, offering you a delightful glimpse into our rich Danish-American heritage while satisfying your cravings with our delectable Kringles.