Have you ever wondered how a small family bakery can turn into a beloved national treasure?  This is the heartwarming story of Ray and Myrna Olesen, the second generation behind the iconic O&H Danish Bakery.  Their bold steps and clever innovations led to the rise of Kringle, a pastry so cherished that even Presidents have sung its praises.  Join us as we journey through their inspiring path, showing how their passion and dedication propelled O&H Danish Bakery into a new era.  Can you dig it?

Ray and Myrna Olesen’s Bold Steps

In 1963, Ray Olesen, son of Christian Olesen, and his wife, Myrna, took a leap of faith and bought out their silent partner, placing ownership solely in Olesen’s hands.  Their vision was clear, to expand and innovate while maintaining the quality and tradition for which O&H Danish Bakery was known.  This decision marked the beginning of an era that would see the bakery’s reach extend both locally and nationally.

The Birth of the Iconic Oval Kringle

One of Ray and Myrna’s most significant innovations was transforming the traditional Danish pretzel-shaped Kringle into an oval shape.  This change wasn’t merely cosmetic; it opened the door to scrumptious fillings, turning each bite into an indulgent experience and ensuring that every slice struck the perfect balance between filling and pastry.  This simple tweak quickly elevated Kringle from a local favorite to a national sensation.

The newfound popularity of Kringle received a major boost when President Eisenhower and First Lady Mamie Eisenhower publicly declared it one of their favorite pastries after receiving it as a gift.  This presidential endorsement catapulted Kringle into the national spotlight, making it a must-try delicacy across the country.

Expanding the Bakery’s Reach with Mail Order

Ray and Myrna not only innovated their products but also strategically expanded O&H Danish Bakery’s physical presence by opening new bakery locations, making their delicious offerings accessible to more people.  They revolutionized the business by introducing mail-order Kringles, allowing customers nationwide to enjoy their treats, even before online shopping became popular.  These bold moves solidified O&H Danish Bakery’s reputation for quality and tradition, with every Kringle reflecting their commitment to excellence—a cornerstone of their enduring success.

A Sweet Taste of the 70s

The 1970s brought new cultural influences, inspiring Ray and Myrna to experiment with fresh flavors that resonate with the era.  Enter the Pineapple Pecan Kringle—a delightful representation of this vibrant decade.  As Hawaiian culture became more mainstream, the pineapple burst onto the scene.  This tropical golden fruit captivated the hearts of the second generation, Ray and Myrna.  They discovered that blending this sun-kissed filling with delicious nutty pecans and cane brown sugar created an absolutely groovy combination.  Topped with sweet icing and sugared pecan pieces, this Kringle is slammin’ and will keep the Aloha spirit alive.

The Legacy Continues

Ray and Myrna Olesen’s journey at O&H Danish Bakery is not just about pastries; it’s about creating a vibrant community of Kringle lovers.  Their customers became more than just buyers; they joined a rich tradition, a shared story, and a lasting legacy.  This deep sense of belonging has been essential in sustaining O&H Danish Bakery’s success over the years, as loyal patrons return not only for the delicious pastries but also for the connection to something greater.

Ray and Myrna’s strong foundation has inspired future generations to innovate while honoring tradition.  Their journey exemplifies that passion and commitment lead to remarkable achievements.  O&H Danish Bakery’s evolution into a nationally recognized brand reflects their vision and commitment to quality, setting a standard for success in the baking industry.