Save Flaky puff pastry donuts filled with sweet caramelized apples and topped with a luscious caramel glaze: a delightful twist on classic donuts that makes every bite perfect for autumn or any cozy occasion.
I first made these donuts for a fall brunch with my family and they disappeared in minutes: everyone loved the warm caramel apple filling and the rich glaze on top.
Ingredients
- 2 medium apples: peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: for sautéing apples
- 3 tbsp light brown sugar: adds caramel flavor
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: for warmth
- Pinch of salt: balances sweetness
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (about 250 g): thawed
- 1 egg: beaten, for egg wash
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 g): for caramel glaze
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: for glaze
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (60 ml): makes glaze creamy
- Pinch of salt: in glaze
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Sheet:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Caramelize Apples:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt 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. Let cool.
- Shape Donuts:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out puff pastry to smooth any creases. Use a round cutter (about 3 inches) to cut out 16 circles. Cut a smaller center hole in half of the circles for the tops.
- Fill and Assemble:
- Place a spoonful of caramel apples onto 8 full circles. Top each with a donut-shaped circle and press edges to seal. Brush tops with beaten egg.
- Bake:
- Arrange donuts on prepared sheet and bake for 16 to 18 minutes until golden and puffy.
- Make Caramel Glaze:
- In a saucepan, melt granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring until amber. Add butter and mix until smooth. Slowly add heavy cream and salt: stir until combined. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Glaze Donuts:
- Drizzle donuts with warm caramel glaze before serving.
Save My kids love decorating these donuts with extra glaze and sometimes a sprinkle of cinnamon: it turns baking into a fun weekend memory.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm donuts with coffee or tea for a decadent breakfast, or plate them with vanilla ice cream for an elegant dessert.
Storage Tips
Keep leftover donuts in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 24 hours: reheat gently in the oven for best texture.
Ingredient Variations
Try substituting pears for apples or add a handful of raisins for extra sweetness: you can also sprinkle chopped nuts over the glaze.
Save This recipe brings bakery magic to your home: every bite is a cozy treat celebrating autumn flavors.
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Yes, using store-bought puff pastry makes preparation faster and ensures flaky layers in each donut.
- → What type of apples works best?
Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape well during caramelization and offer balanced sweetness.
- → Do I need a donut cutter?
A round cutter and a smaller cutter for the center hole create a classic donut shape, but you can use any shaped cutters you prefer.
- → How do I achieve a smooth caramel glaze?
Simmer sugar, butter, and cream gently while whisking to create a glossy, pourable caramel glaze for topping.
- → Can these puff pastry donuts be made ahead?
They are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the apple filling and glaze in advance for quicker assembly.