Apple Puff Pastry “Doughnuts Recipe

You know that moment when you crave something sweet, cozy, and just a little bit fancy? That’s exactly where this Apple Puff Pastry “Doughnuts Recipe” comes in. It’s like the lovechild of a warm apple turnover and a doughnut, but better—crispy, flaky layers hugging tender cinnamon-spiced apples that melt in your mouth. I love making these when friends drop by unexpectedly or when I want a quick treat that feels way more special than a plain slice of apple pie.

What makes this Apple Puff Pastry “Doughnuts Recipe” stand out is how simple yet impressive it is. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned baker, you’ll appreciate how easy puff pastry is to work with, and the combination of cinnamon, sugar, and a drizzle of caramel makes every bite unforgettable. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become your go-to when you want to impress with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient here has a purpose, bringing together the perfect balance of texture and flavor. I always recommend using the freshest puff pastry you can find—homemade if you’re feeling adventurous or store-bought for convenience—and Honeycrisp apples for their sweet-tart punch that holds up well when baked.

• Honeycrisp apple: Firm and crisp, this apple type stays juicy while baking, offering a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
• Granulated sugar: Balances the tartness of the apple and crisps up nicely during baking.
• Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that elevates the apples and adds that classic fall flavor.
• Puff pastry sheet: Provides the flaky, buttery base. Make sure it’s thawed but still cool for easier handling.
• Heavy cream or beaten egg: Used to brush on the pastry for a golden, glossy finish—you can’t skip this step!
• Store-bought caramel sauce: Adds a decadent touch and complements the apple-cinnamon filling perfectly.
• Red or white miso (optional): A sneaky umami boost that deepens the caramel sauce flavor—start small and taste before adding more.
• Optional toppings: Pepitas, crushed pretzels, chocolate chips, mochi bites, or a scoop of ice cream—depending on your mood and occasion.

Variations

I’m all about making recipes your own, and this Apple Puff Pastry “Doughnuts Recipe” is no exception. Sometimes I switch up the apples or try different toppings depending on what I have on hand, and you should feel free to do the same!

• Gluten-Free Version: While I haven’t made this one myself yet, using a gluten-free puff pastry could be a great option if you’re avoiding gluten—just watch your baking time, as these varieties can behave differently.
• Spiced Up: I like adding nutmeg or a pinch of cardamom to the cinnamon mix when making these in the colder months for a cozy twist.
• Fruit Swap: Pears or peaches work nicely if you want to play with seasonal fruits.
• Sweet and Savory: The miso tip is a game-changer! It adds a savory depth to the caramel that balances sweetness—I recommend trying it at least once.

How to Make Apple Puff Pastry “Doughnuts Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Apples and Puff Pastry

Start by peeling and coring your Honeycrisp apple, then slice it into thin, even rounds—about 1/8-inch thick. This helps them cook quickly and evenly inside the puff pastry. While you’re prepping, thaw your puff pastry on the counter (if frozen) but keep it cool so it’s easier to work with later. I find that handling puff pastry when slightly chilled prevents it from becoming too sticky or tearing.

Step 2: Mix Your Cinnamon Sugar Filling

In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar with ground cinnamon. This classic duo is what makes your apple slices irresistibly flavorful—don’t skimp on the cinnamon for that nice warm spice! Toss the apple slices gently with this mixture until they’re evenly coated but not soggy.

Step 3: Cut and Fill the Puff Pastry

Roll out your puff pastry lightly on a floured surface. Using a round cookie cutter or glass roughly 3 inches in diameter, cut out even circles—these will be your “doughnuts.” For each doughnut, place a few cinnamon-sugar apple slices in the center, making sure not to overfill to avoid leaking. Brush the edges with a little heavy cream or beaten egg, then top with another puff pastry circle. Press edges gently to seal, and use a fork to crimp the sides for a neat finish.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Arrange your filled doughnuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Give them a light brush of more egg wash or cream on top to encourage that golden brown color. Pop them in a preheated oven at 400°F (205°C) for about 15-18 minutes, or until they’re puffed up and beautifully golden. Keep an eye on them—every oven can be a bit different, but visual cues will guide you best.

Step 5: Drizzle With Caramel and Optional Miso

While the doughnuts are still warm, drizzle the store-bought caramel sauce over the top. If you want that extra umami hit, stir in about half a teaspoon of red or white miso into your caramel before drizzling—I promise it’s an unexpected but delightful twist that really lifts the flavors. Don’t worry if you’re hesitant; start small and adjust to your taste.

How to Serve Apple Puff Pastry “Doughnuts Recipe

Garnishes

My favorite way to finish these off is with a sprinkle of toasted pepitas for crunch or crushed pretzels for a salty contrast, but chocolate chips and mochi bites make a fun dessert twist too. If you’re serving these warm, a scoop of vanilla ice cream never goes amiss—melting slowly as you dig in is pure bliss.

Side Dishes

These “doughnuts” pair beautifully with a simple cup of coffee or tea, especially during those cozy morning or afternoon moments. For a brunch spread, add some fresh fruit salad or a few slices of sharp cheddar cheese on the side to balance the sweet.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gatherings, I like arranging these on a rustic wooden board with small jars of caramel and whipped cream for dipping. You can also thread them onto skewers for a playful “doughnut kebab” feel at parties—it always gets compliments and makes serving a breeze!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day—these puff pastry treats are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have to hold onto them, they’ll keep for a day without too much loss of flakiness.

Freezing

If you want to prep in advance, these Apple Puff Pastry “Doughnuts Recipe” freeze quite well before baking. You can assemble them, freeze flat on a tray, then transfer to a sealed bag. When ready, bake them straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To reheat, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 7-10 minutes until warmed through and the pastry regains some crispness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that flaky texture intact—microwaves tend to make puff pastry soggy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I honestly get so much joy from making this Apple Puff Pastry “Doughnuts Recipe” because it’s one of those treats that feels handcrafted but is surprisingly simple. Whether you’re making it for a weekend brunch, an afternoon snack, or a fun dessert for family, these puff pastry doughnuts bring a little magic to the table. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how such a straightforward recipe can make your kitchen smell so amazing and put smiles around your table. Plus, once you get the hang of it, you’ll find yourself dreaming up all kinds of filling and topping combos. Grab that puff pastry sheet and apple, and let’s get baking!

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