Salted caramel donuts are an increasingly popular choice for casual weddings, offering a delightful blend of sweet and salty flavors that appeal to many guests.
Here’s how to make them, along with some creative serving ideas.
Recipe for Salted Caramel Donuts
Ingredients
For the Donuts:
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• Canola oil for frying
For the Salted Caramel Topping:
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt (plus more for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
• In a bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and nutmeg.
• In another bowl, combine the melted butter and vanilla. Set aside.
• In a stand mixer, beat together the eggs, buttermilk, and both sugars on medium until well combined.
• Gradually add the flour mixture, followed by the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
• Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead until it comes together. Roll out to about half an inch thick.
Cut and Chill:
• Use a donut cutter to cut out donuts and holes. Transfer them to a floured baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Make the Caramel Sauce:
• In a saucepan, combine sugar, lemon juice, and a bit of water. Cook over medium heat until it turns golden amber.
• Carefully add heavy cream (it will bubble) and stir in sea salt once smooth. Let it cool.
Fry the Donuts:
• Heat canola oil in a deep container to about 360°F (180°C). Fry donuts for about 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown.
• Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a cooling rack.
Glaze the Donuts:
• Once cooled slightly, dip each donut into the salted caramel sauce. Allow excess glaze to drip off before placing them on a tray.
• Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
• Doughnut Tower: Create a stunning display by stacking donuts on a tiered stand or using a doughnut wall for guests to grab their favorites.
• Wedding Favors: Package individual donuts in boxes or bags as sweet take-home treats for guests.
• Dessert Table: Incorporate salted caramel donuts into a dessert table alongside other sweets like cupcakes or cookies for variety.
These salted caramel donuts not only provide a delicious treat but also add an element of fun and creativity to any casual wedding celebration.
