Save Flaky puff pastry donuts filled with sweet caramelized apples and topped with a luscious caramel glaze offer a delightful twist on classic donuts. These pastries are perfect for autumn or any time you crave a cozy treat that combines comforting flavors with a beautiful presentation.
The first time I made these caramel apple puff pastry donuts, my kitchen filled with the aroma of cinnamon and baked apples. Watching the caramel glaze melt over the warm pastries was a simple pleasure that made the whole process truly special.
Ingredients
- Apples: 2 medium, peeled, cored, and diced
- Unsalted butter (filling): 2 tbsp
- Light brown sugar: 3 tbsp
- Ground cinnamon: 1/2 tsp
- Salt (filling): Pinch
- Puff pastry: 1 sheet (about 250 g), thawed
- Egg: 1, beaten (for egg wash)
- Granulated sugar (glaze): 1/2 cup (100 g)
- Unsalted butter (glaze): 2 tbsp
- Heavy cream: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- Salt (glaze): Pinch
Instructions
- Prep the oven:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Caramelize the apples:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring, for 5 to 7 minutes until apples are soft and caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Shape the donuts:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out puff pastry to smooth creases. Using a round cutter (about 3 inches/7.5 cm), cut out 16 circles. Use a smaller cutter to cut out center holes in half of the circles to create donut tops.
- Fill and assemble:
- Spoon caramelized apple filling onto each of the whole circles, then place donut tops over filling to form donuts. Press edges gently to seal.
- Brush and bake:
- Brush donuts with beaten egg and arrange on prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until puffed and golden.
- Make the caramel glaze:
- In a small saucepan, heat 1/2 cup sugar over medium, stirring until melted and amber colored. Add 2 tbsp butter and stir until combined. Slowly add 1/4 cup heavy cream and a pinch of salt, stirring until smooth. Cool slightly.
- Glaze and serve:
- Drizzle caramel glaze over warm donuts before serving.
Save Sharing these donuts at our weekend brunch brought everyone together around the kitchen table. The golden pastries disappeared quickly, with everyone savoring every bite.
Variations
Try substituting pears or peaches for apples, or add a sprinkle of chopped nuts to the caramelized filling for extra crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to refresh the pastry.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these donuts warm with extra caramel glaze, or pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Save Enjoy these caramel apple puff pastry donuts fresh from the oven for the ultimate autumn-inspired treat. Their warm, buttery layers are sure to impress.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of apples work best?
Firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape well and balance sweetness and tartness.
- → Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, caramelized apples can be made a day in advance and refrigerated until ready to use.
- → How do I prevent pastry from getting soggy?
Let apples cool before assembling and bake pastries at a high temperature to maintain crispness.
- → Is it possible to make these treats vegan?
Substitute dairy butter with vegan butter and use plant-based cream for the glaze. Omit the egg wash or use non-dairy milk.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- → Can other fruits be used in the filling?
Pears or peaches are tasty alternatives, though apple's flavor pairs especially well with caramel and cinnamon.