Baking puff pastry apple “donuts”

Baking puff pastry apple “donuts” is a creative and delicious way to combine the crispiness of puff pastry with the sweet, comforting flavors of apple pie. These treats are not traditional donuts made from a yeast dough, but rather a delightful pastry that mimics the shape and indulgence of a donut. They’re perfect for when you want something sweet without the hassle of deep-frying. Here’s how to make them:

Ingredients:
1 package of puff pastry (thawed): Most store-bought puff pastry comes in sheets that need to be thawed before use.
2-3 large apples: Peeled, cored, and sliced into thin rings.
1/2 cup sugar: For sweetening the apples.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: To mix with the sugar for the apples.
1 egg (for egg wash): Beaten, helps to give the pastry a golden color.
Powdered sugar (for dusting): Optional, for serving.
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Prepare the Apple Slices:

Mix the sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Toss the apple slices in the cinnamon sugar until well coated. Set aside.
Prepare the Puff Pastry:

Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking. Using a donut cutter or two different sized round cookie cutters, cut out donut shapes (a large circle with a smaller circle cut out from the middle). If you don’t have cutters, you can use a glass for the outer circle and a bottle cap for the inner circle.
Assemble the “Donuts”:

Place the puff pastry rings on the prepared baking sheets. Lay an apple slice on top of each puff pastry ring. If necessary, you can slightly overlap two apple slices to fit the ring.
Apply Egg Wash:

Brush the puff pastry lightly with the beaten egg. This will help the pastry to achieve a beautiful golden color as it bakes.
Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry has puffed up and turned golden brown.
Serve:

Allow the puff pastry apple “donuts” to cool slightly on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
These puff pastry apple “donuts” are a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. Enjoy your baking adventure!