There is something truly magical about homemade donuts that captivates the heart and taste buds all at once, and this Salted Caramel Donuts Recipe delivers that magic in every bite. Picture perfectly pillowy, golden-fried donuts coated in a delicate crunch of sugar, then generously crowned with a rich, buttery salted caramel glaze that elegantly balances sweetness with a hint of sea salt. It’s a delightful treat that feels both indulgent and comforting, making it ideal for sharing (or savoring solo) on any occasion that calls for a little extra sparkle in life. If you adore that dreamy mix of caramel and salt paired with the softest donut texture imaginable, this recipe is your new must-try.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several plain dough rings placed on sheets of brown parchment paper, which lie on a baking tray. Each dough ring is light beige, smooth, and slightly thick with a hole in the middle, highlighting their soft texture. The parchment paper folds upward behind the dough rings, giving a sense of depth. The baking tray's edges are visible, and the whole setup rests on a white marbled surface, softly lit to emphasize the dough's smoothness and shape. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Whipping up these Salted Caramel Donuts might look impressive, but the ingredients are straightforward and absolutely essential—you’ll find each one plays a starring role in building that perfect flavor, texture, and color you crave.

3/4 cup water: Used in the tangzhong, this ensures the dough stays incredibly soft and fresh longer.
1/4 cup bread flour (for tangzhong): Provides structure and helps activate the thickening process.
3 cups + 2 tablespoons bread flour: The main flour; strong bread flour creates that chewy, elastic dough perfect for donuts.
1/3 cup granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough itself and helps with browning.
1 tablespoon instant yeast: The secret to light, fluffy donuts by making the dough rise beautifully.
1 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
1/2 cup whole milk (room temperature): Adds richness and tenderness to the dough.
1 large egg (room temperature): Binds ingredients and enriches the dough’s texture.
5 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature): Adds moisture and silky softness to every bite.
Neutral oil, for frying: A clean oil like vegetable or canola works best to give donuts that golden crisp exterior without overpowering flavor.
1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel): The base for the luxurious salted caramel topping.
6 tablespoons cubed unsalted butter (room temperature): Boosts the caramel’s richness and smooth finish.
1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon heavy cream (room temperature): Makes the caramel delectably creamy and luscious.
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste: Infuses the caramel with warm, fragrant vanilla notes.
Flaky sea salt (for the tops): Adds that perfect finishing touch of texture and saltiness to balance sweetness.

How to Make Salted Caramel Donuts Recipe

Step 1: Make the Tangzhong

Start by creating the tangzhong, a flavorful water-roux paste that transforms your donuts into the softest treats ever. In a small saucepan, whisk together the water and bread flour. Cook over medium heat while whisking constantly until it thickens to a smooth paste—about 4 to 5 minutes. Set this aside to cool as it will help keep the dough tender and fresh for days.

Step 2: Prepare the Donut Dough

In the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the bread flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add the milk, egg, and cooled tangzhong. Knead gently on low for a couple of minutes until a dough forms. Then, with the mixer still running on low, gradually add softened butter by tablespoons, letting it incorporate fully. Once all butter is in, crank up the speed and knead for about 12 minutes until the dough becomes silky smooth and elastic—passing the windowpane test is your sign it’s ready.

Step 3: First Rise and Shaping

Shape the dough into a neat ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl, covering it to let it rise for about 30 to 45 minutes at room temperature until slightly puffed. When ready, roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thickness. Use a large donut cutter to cut out shapes, gently rerolling scraps just once for best results. Place each donut on small parchment squares to make transferring easier.

Step 4: Final Proofing

Arrange the donuts on a baking tray lined with parchment, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and let them proof for 45 to 65 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled in size. This step ensures light and airy donuts with the perfect crumb.

Step 5: Frying to Golden Perfection

Heat 3 to 4 inches of neutral oil in a heavy pot to a steady 350°F (180°C). Carefully lower donuts in batches along with their parchment squares, then quickly remove the parchment using tongs. Fry for around 2 and a half minutes total, flipping halfway through until donuts are delightfully golden. Drain on a wire rack and cool completely before moving on.

Step 6: Making the Salted Caramel

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat. It will clump initially but keep stirring until it fully liquefies into a rich amber color—watch close as it caramelizes fast. Remove the pan from heat and whisk in the cubed butter all at once, followed by the heavy cream, creating a luscious sauce. Stir in vanilla bean paste and let the caramel cool and thicken for about 30 minutes until it reaches a thick, glossy texture perfect for piping onto donuts.

Step 7: Final Touches and Assembly

Once completely cooled, optionally roll the sides of the donuts in sugar for a bit of crunch. Transfer the caramel to a piping bag for neat, even swirls atop each donut. Finish each one off with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt while the caramel is still slightly warm for that beautiful salty-sweet contrast. Remember, these donuts taste best fresh—assembled just before serving to keep the caramel deliciously intact.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Donuts Recipe

A close-up view of a single donut held by a woman's hand, showing two main layers: the base layer is the donut itself, golden brown and thickly coated with white sugar crystals; the top layer is a thick, shiny, orange caramel glaze that drips slightly from the edge, with small sprinkles of coarse salt scattered on top; the background is a smooth green color, and the focus highlights the texture of the donut and glaze photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A little goes a long way with garnishes here: flaky sea salt is essential to highlight that signature salted caramel flavor while adding a delightful crunch. For an extra touch of elegance, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of toasted nuts like chopped pecans or almonds to complement the caramel’s warmth.

Side Dishes

These donuts shine as a standalone treat but pair exceptionally well with a creamy cup of coffee, robust black tea, or even a frothy latte to balance their sweetness. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit or a yogurt parfait to add some bright freshness to the mix.

Creative Ways to Present

Make your donut presentation unforgettable by arranging them stacked in pretty towers or on rustic wooden boards. Try piping caramel in artistic swirls, then drizzle with chocolate or a contrasting berry sauce for extra flair. Serving with small tasting spoons of salted caramel sauce on the side will let guests indulge in even more gooey goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, keep your donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but properly stored, the dough stays soft without drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted, cooled donuts by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen donuts will maintain their quality for up to a month—just thaw overnight at room temperature before adding the caramel glaze.

Reheating

Warm your donuts gently in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes or briefly in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds if you’re in a hurry. Add the salted caramel topping after reheating to keep its beautiful texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour for the donuts?

While bread flour gives you that perfect chew and structure, you can substitute all-purpose flour in a pinch. The donuts might be slightly less chewy but will still be delicious and tender.

What is Tangzhong and why is it important in this recipe?

Tangzhong is a cooked flour and water mixture that helps retain moisture in the dough, resulting in softer, fluffier donuts that stay fresh longer. It’s a fun trick borrowed from Asian bakeries that makes a big difference.

Can I make the caramel ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the caramel up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Warm it gently to loosen before piping onto your donuts just before serving.

What is the best oil for frying these donuts?

Neutral oils with high smoke points like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil are ideal because they let the donuts fry to a perfect golden without adding any extra flavors.

Why add flaky sea salt on top?

Flaky sea salt adds a delightful crunch and enhances the salted caramel flavor by balancing the sweetness, creating a perfect harmony that elevates the entire donut experience.

Final Thoughts

Making the Salted Caramel Donuts Recipe at home is one of those kitchen adventures that brings pure joy from start to finish. Each step is a celebration of craft and flavor resulting in donuts that are truly unforgettable—soft, rich, and gloriously caramel-coated. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to make them again and again to share with loved ones or simply indulge your sweet tooth whenever the craving strikes. So grab your mixing bowl and dive in! Your perfect batch of salted caramel donuts awaits.