# What you'll need:
→ Caramelized Apples
01 - 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
04 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 - Pinch of salt
→ Donuts
06 - 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed (about 9 ounces)
07 - 1 large egg, beaten
→ Caramel Glaze
08 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
09 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
10 - 1/4 cup heavy cream
11 - Pinch of salt
# Method:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Melt unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced apples, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until apples are soft and caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool.
03 - On a lightly floured surface, roll out thawed puff pastry to smooth creases. Using a 3-inch round cutter, cut out 16 circles. Use a smaller cutter to remove the center from 8 of the circles, forming rings.
04 - Place 8 whole puff pastry circles on the prepared baking sheet. Divide the cooled caramelized apples evenly among them, keeping filling in the center. Cover with the pastry rings to form donuts and lightly press edges to seal.
05 - Brush the tops of donuts with beaten egg for a golden finish.
06 - Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes until donuts are puffed and deeply golden. Allow to cool slightly after baking.
07 - In a small saucepan, melt granulated sugar over medium heat until it becomes deep amber. Add unsalted butter and whisk until incorporated. Pour in heavy cream, add a pinch of salt, and cook for another minute until smooth. Remove from heat.
08 - Drizzle warm caramel glaze over each baked donut. Serve warm or at room temperature.
