Apple Puff Pastry “Doughnuts Recipe

If you’ve been on the lookout for a fun, easy, and utterly delicious treat, then you’re going to love this Apple Puff Pastry “Doughnuts Recipe”. Imagine crisp apple rings wrapped in golden puff pastry, dusted with cinnamon sugar, and drizzled with a luscious miso caramel sauce—talk about a game changer! When I first tried this recipe, I was hooked instantly, and ever since, it’s been a favorite go-to for quick desserts that wow. Stick around, and I’ll share all my tips so you can make these beauties just right in your own kitchen.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple ingredients work together so well, making this apple puff pastry “doughnuts recipe” both approachable and bursting with flavor. Picking the right apple and puff pastry is key to getting that perfect balance of juicy fruit and flaky crust.

• Honeycrisp apple: I prefer Honeycrisp for its crispness and sweet-tart flavor, but any firm apple that holds shape will do.
• Granulated sugar: For that classic sweetness and to balance the tartness of the apple.
• Ground cinnamon: The warm spice that makes everything feel cozy and perfectly paired with apple.
• Puff pastry sheet: Buy it thawed or frozen from the store—homemade is great if you have time, but the store-bought kind works beautifully.
• Heavy cream or beaten egg: To brush on the pastry so it bakes up golden and shiny.
• Store-bought caramel sauce: For that indulgent drizzle, plus it pairs perfectly with the cinnamon apples.
• Red or white miso (optional): This little secret adds a subtle umami note to the caramel, making it irresistibly rich.
• Optional toppings: Pepitas, crushed pretzels, chocolate chips, mochi bites, or even your favorite ice cream—these add fun texture and extra flavor.

Variations

I love how this apple puff pastry “doughnuts recipe” really invites some creativity, so feel free to personalize it. Try swapping flavors or textures to make it uniquely yours—that’s part of the fun!

• Fruit Switch-Up: I once made these using canned pineapple rings instead of apples and was blown away by the tropical twist it gave. Definitely worth a try!
• Spice Swaps: If cinnamon isn’t your thing or you want a holiday vibe, pumpkin pie spice or cardamom can add an exciting new depth.
• Mini Apple Doughnut Pies: For a fun presentation, sandwich an apple ring between two puff pastry circles with a hole cut in the middle—it looks fantastic and is just as tasty.
• Dietary Modifications: Use dairy-free cream alternatives or skip the miso caramel glaze for a simpler vegan-friendly version that still tastes dreamy.

How to Make Apple Puff Pastry “Doughnuts Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Apples

Start by slicing that gorgeous Honeycrisp apple into thin rings, about 1/4-inch thick—this is key to getting just the right balance of tenderness once baked. I find using a sharp knife helps get clean rings without squishing the fruit. Then, use a small cookie cutter or piping tip to pop out the core, turning your slices into perfect doughnut shapes. It’s such a fun step and feels satisfying!

Step 2: Spice Things Up

Mix your granulated sugar with cinnamon in a shallow dish, then gently dip each apple ring into this warm-spiced sugar. Don’t soak them too long, just a light coating is enough. This little sugar bath gives the apples a sweet and aromatic glow once baked, which is hard to beat.

Step 3: Puff Pastry Wrapping Magic

Roll out your puff pastry just enough to soften those folds, but not so thin that it tears easily. Then, slice into thin strips – about 1/4-inch wide – and start wrapping them around each apple ring. I thread the strips through the hole, wrapping it up like a cozy little jacket for the apple. Usually, it takes at least two strips per doughnut, so don’t rush this part! Place them spaced out on your parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Golden Finish

Brush each little beauty with heavy cream or beaten egg—the choice is yours, but cream adds a wonderful richness that browns nicely. Then sprinkle a pinch of the leftover spiced sugar on top. Now, pop them in a preheated 375°F oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. Keep an eye on them near the end; when the puff pastry turns a gorgeous golden brown and puffy, you’re done. Trust me, the smell alone makes the wait worthwhile!

Step 5: The Showstopper Drizzle

While your “doughnuts” bake, warm up your caramel sauce gently and stir in that optional red or white miso. This imparts a subtle savory note that beautifully complements the sweet apples and cinnamon. Once your pastries cool slightly, drizzle generously and finish by sprinkling optional toppings like toasted pepitas or crushed pretzels for that extra crunch. This step is where it all comes together into pure magic.

How to Serve Apple Puff Pastry “Doughnuts Recipe

Garnishes

I usually top mine with toasted pepitas—they add this delightfully nutty crunch that I adore. But crushed pretzels bring an addictive salty twist, and little chocolate chips are always a crowd-pleaser for the kids. If you want to go all out, a small scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on the side is heavenly. You’ll find your favorite combo quickly—it’s all about those finishing touches!

Side Dishes

These apple puff pastry “doughnuts” are fantastic on their own, but I love serving them alongside a simple cup of hot chai or a steaming mug of coffee. For brunch, pair them with scrambled eggs or a fresh green salad for a sweet-savory contrast. They also make a charming dessert after a cozy autumn meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to arrange these doughnuts in a pretty circle on a cake stand and sprinkle powdered sugar around the edges. You could also stack them like a mini tower, alternating with dollops of whipped cream or mascarpone. Adding edible flowers or a few fresh mint leaves uplifts their look instantly—perfect for impressing guests without much fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want them to last longer, pop them in the fridge where they keep nicely for up to a week. Just make sure they’re cooled completely before sealing to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

I’ve frozen these puff pastry doughnuts after baking and cooling completely, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. They hold up well for up to six months! When you want to enjoy them, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for a few minutes until warm and crispy again. Just be sure not to freeze them before baking to avoid soggy pastry.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat leftover “doughnuts” is in a toaster oven or conventional oven at around 350°F for 5-7 minutes. This helps bring back that flaky crispiness you originally loved. Avoid microwaving if you can—it tends to make puff pastry a bit chewy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This apple puff pastry “doughnuts recipe” has become one of my absolute favorites because it brings together familiar flavors in a fun and elegant way without any fuss. I love how easy it is to make something so impressive with just a few ingredients and simple steps. If you try it (and I hope you do!), I bet it will become a cherished treat in your home too, perfect for cozy afternoons, brunches, or entertaining friends. Let me know how yours turn out—I’m rooting for your kitchen to smell just as amazing as mine does every time I bake these!

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