Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Apple Puff Pastry “Doughnuts” with Caramel and Optional Toppings Recipe

★★★★★ 4.9 from 72 reviews
  • Author: Touba
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Total Time: 33 minutes
  • Yield: 6 doughnuts 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Delight in these easy-to-make Apple Puff Pastry “Doughnuts,” featuring crisp Honeycrisp apple slices wrapped in flaky puff pastry, dusted with cinnamon sugar, and drizzled with caramel sauce. Optional toppings like pepitas, crushed pretzels, or chocolate chips add a fun twist to this crispy, sweet treat perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruit

  • 1 large Honeycrisp apple

Spices and Sweeteners

  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Dough

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

Coating

  • Heavy cream or 1 beaten egg (for brushing)

Sauce and Flavoring

  • 1/4 cup store-bought caramel sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon red or white miso (optional, adjust to taste)

Optional Toppings

  • Pepitas
  • Crushed pretzels
  • Chocolate chips
  • Mochi bites
  • Ice cream of your choice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the apple: Core and slice the Honeycrisp apple thinly to ensure even cooking, setting the slices aside on a clean surface.
  2. Mix cinnamon sugar: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar with ground cinnamon to create a flavorful spice mix that will coat the pastry and apple slices.
  3. Roll out puff pastry: Lay the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface and roll it gently to smooth any creases without making it too thin.
  4. Cut pastry circles: Use a round cookie cutter or glass to cut circles out of the puff pastry sheet, which will serve as the doughnut base and top.
  5. Assemble doughnuts: Brush the bottom pastry circle lightly with heavy cream or beaten egg to help it stick. Arrange apple slices neatly on top, then sprinkle with a little of the cinnamon sugar mixture.
  6. Top and seal: Place another puff pastry circle on top of the apple-covered base. Press the edges gently to seal, optionally crimping with a fork to secure the filling inside.
  7. Brush and sprinkle: Brush the assembled doughnuts with more heavy cream or beaten egg for a golden finish. Sprinkle the tops with the remaining cinnamon sugar.
  8. Bake: Place the doughnuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 to 18 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
  9. Prepare caramel sauce: If using miso, stir 1/2 teaspoon of red or white miso into the caramel sauce to create a savory-sweet balance.
  10. Serve and garnish: Drizzle the warm doughnuts with the miso-caramel sauce and add optional toppings like pepitas, crushed pretzels, chocolate chips, mochi bites, or a scoop of ice cream to enhance the texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use a sharp knife or mandoline to slice apples thinly and evenly for better cooking.
  • The miso in the caramel sauce adds a subtle umami flavor but can be omitted based on preference.
  • These puff pastry doughnuts are best served warm to enjoy the crisp pastry and melty apple.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently in the oven to restore crispness.
  • Feel free to experiment with other apple varieties like Fuji or Granny Smith for different levels of sweetness or tartness.

Keywords: apple puff pastry, puff pastry doughnuts, baked apple dessert, cinnamon sugar doughnuts, caramel apple treats

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://toubaeasts.com/apple-puff-pastry-doughnuts-with-caramel-and-optional-toppings-recipe/