Salted Caramel Apple Beignets
- tastewithoutaface
- May 6
- 3 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
Disclaimer: This page contains AI-generated content and may also contain affiliate links.
Total Cook Time: ~2 hours | Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Imagine golden-fried dough pillows bursting with warm spiced apple filling, dusted in sugar, and drizzled with gooey salted caramel—these Salted Caramel Apple Beignets turn any morning or dessert into a celebration. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they’re a sweet-and-salty twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients (makes about 16 beignets)
For the Dough
2¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
¾ cup warm whole milk (100–110°F)
3 Tbsp granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
¼ tsp fine sea salt
2 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Apple Filling
2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored & finely diced
2 Tbsp unsalted butter
2 Tbsp brown sugar
½ tsp ground cinnamon
Pinch of nutmeg
For the Salted Caramel Sauce
¾ cup granulated sugar
3 Tbsp water
3 Tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
¼ cup heavy cream, warmed
½ tsp flaky sea salt (plus extra for sprinkling)
For Frying & Finishing
Neutral oil (canola or vegetable), for deep-frying (about 4 cups)
½ cup granulated sugar (or cinnamon-sugar mix) for tossing
Ingredient Alternatives
Flour: Substitute half whole-wheat pastry flour for nutty flavor (dough will be denser).
Apples: Use pears or diced peaches in season.
Caramel: Swap in store-bought caramel sauce and stir in salt.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk for the dough and coconut cream in the caramel.
Step 1: Bloom the Yeast
In a small bowl, whisk the yeast into warm milk with 1 tsp sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Tip Alert: Advance Prep: Dough can be made and refrigerated overnight; let it come to room temp before shaping.
Step 2: Make & Rise the Dough
In a large bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Stir in yeast mixture, egg, and melted butter until a shaggy dough forms. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead 3–4 minutes until smooth. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 1 hour.
Step 3: Shape the Beignets
Punch down dough and roll to ¼″ thickness on a floured surface. Use a 3″ round cutter to cut circles. Spoon about 1 tsp cooled apple filling onto half the rounds. Top with remaining circles, pressing edges to seal (use a fork to crimp).
Tip Alert: Prevent Sogginess: Drain apple filling very well; excess moisture can cause beignets to leak.
Step 4: Fry Until Golden
Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (use a thermometer). Fry beignets in batches, 1–2 minutes per side, until puffed and golden. Drain on paper towels.
Tip Alert: Oil Temperature: Maintain 350 °F to ensure crisp exterior and fully cooked interior.
Step 5: Toss in Sugar
While still warm, toss beignets in granulated sugar (or cinnamon-sugar) to coat evenly.
Tip Alert: Even Coating: Roll beignets in sugar while hot so it adheres perfectly.
Step 6: Make the Salted Caramel
In a clean saucepan, stir sugar and water over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Without stirring, let boil until amber (3–4 minutes). Remove from heat; whisk in butter until melted, then whisk in warm cream until smooth. Stir in flaky salt. Let cool slightly.
Step 7: Serve & Drizzle
Arrange beignets on a platter, drizzle with salted caramel, and sprinkle a touch more sea salt. Enjoy immediately!
Beverage Pairings
Chai Latte: Spiced tea flavors echo the cinnamon-apple notes.
Cold Brew Coffee: Its smooth bitterness balances the sweet caramel.
Sparkling Apple Cider: Light bubbles and tart apple complement the filling.
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate: Double up on the caramel theme for ultimate indulgence.
These Salted Caramel Apple Beignets are proof that simple ingredients can create an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re craving something cozy for breakfast or a standout dessert, their hot-from-the-fryer magic will disappear fast—enjoy every sugary, caramel-drizzled bite!
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