French crullers are the delightful, airy doughnuts that can make any morning feel like a special occasion. With their light, crispy exterior and soft, pillowy inside, they practically invite you to dive in for that first glorious bite. chocolate-covered strawberries You can almost hear them whispering sweet nothings while tantalizing your taste buds with a hint of vanilla and a shiny glaze that glistens like morning dew.
Imagine waking up on a Sunday morning, the sun streaming through your kitchen window as you whip up a batch of these heavenly treats. The aroma wafts through your home, mingling with the scent of freshly brewed coffee, making it impossible to resist. festive dessert options Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging on a lazy weekend, French crullers promise an explosion of flavor and joy that will have everyone clamoring for more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These French crullers are surprisingly easy to make and require just a few ingredients.
- Their light texture and sweet glaze create an irresistible flavor combination.
- The beautiful shape makes them visually appealing for any gathering or brunch.
- Perfectly versatile, enjoy them plain or jazz them up with different glazes and toppings!
Ingredients for French Crullers
For more inspiration, check out this Pecan Pie Bars recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: This provides the base for your doughnuts and gives them that classic structure.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for richness; it adds flavor and helps achieve that perfect texture.
- Eggs: Fresh eggs bring moisture and richness to the cruller batter.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is essential; it balances the flavors in the crullers.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
- Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps create those airy pockets in each cruller.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors without being overpowering.
For the Glaze:
- Powdered Sugar: The star ingredient for that glossy finish; it’s sweeter and smoother than granulated sugar.
- Milk: A little milk helps create the perfect consistency for your glaze.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make French Crullers
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Dough
Start by melting butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in water, salt, and sugar until combined. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil before adding flour all at once. Stir vigorously until it forms a smooth ball of dough.
Step 2: Add Eggs
Remove the pan from heat and allow it to cool slightly. Then add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until completely incorporated. Your dough should be smooth and slightly sticky.
Step 3: Pipe the Crullers
Transfer your dough into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Pipe long strips (about four inches) onto the sheets, making sure they don’t touch each other.
Step 4: Heat Oil
In a large pot or deep fryer, heat oil to around 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil so that the crullers can float freely while frying.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden
Carefully place several crullers into the hot oil without overcrowding the pot. Fry them for about three minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from oil and let them drain on paper towels.
Step 6: Glaze Them Up
While still warm, whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth for your glaze. Dip each cruller into the glaze until well coated then set aside on wire racks to let excess drip off.
Transfer to plates for serving, and watch as everyone’s eyes light up when they see these gorgeous golden treats! Pair them with coffee or tea for an utterly delightful experience that will have you dreaming of more!
You Must Know
- French crullers are not just delightful pastries; they embody the magic of light, airy textures and sweet glazes.
- These treats are perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself.
- With customization options galore, you can create your own unique version of this classic dessert!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture, start by making the dough. While it’s chilling, prepare your frying oil. Once ready, heat it to the right temperature before carefully dropping in the crullers. This ensures they puff up beautifully and cook evenly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to switch up flavors! Instead of vanilla extract, try almond or orange zest for a twist. You can also experiment with different toppings like chocolate glaze or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for added flair.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover French crullers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you prefer them warm, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes to regain their delightful texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When frying, maintain an oil temperature of 350°F for the best results—too hot and they’ll burn, too cool and they’ll become greasy.
- Always use a thermometer!
- For extra crunchiness, let them cool completely before glazing.
Sometimes I whip up these crullers just to see the faces of my friends when they take that first bite—it’s pure bliss! One time, I made them for a brunch and ended up sending everyone home with leftovers; they were ecstatic!
FAQs:
What are French Crullers made of?
French Crullers are delightful pastries made from a choux pastry dough, which is light and airy. The main ingredients include butter, flour, water, and eggs. After mixing these ingredients, the dough is piped into a ring shape and deep-fried until golden brown. This method creates a unique texture that is both crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Often, crullers are finished with a sweet glaze or powdered sugar to enhance their flavor. For more inspiration, check out this Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies recipe.
How do you store leftover French Crullers?
To keep your French Crullers fresh after baking, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. For optimal freshness, consider freezing them in a single layer and then transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Can I make French Crullers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare French Crullers ahead of time. You can make the dough a day before frying and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply pipe and fry the crullers directly from the fridge. However, be aware that frying cold dough may require slight adjustments in cooking time for perfect results.
What is the best way to glaze French Crullers?
The best way to glaze French Crullers is while they are still warm but not too hot. Prepare a simple glaze using powdered sugar combined with milk or water until you reach your desired consistency. Dip each cruller into the glaze or drizzle it over the top for an even coating. Allow excess glaze to drip off before placing them on a wire rack to set.
Conclusion for French Crullers:
In summary, making delicious French Crullers involves creating a light choux pastry that delivers a unique texture when fried. Storing these treats properly ensures they maintain their delightful taste and freshness over time. light and zesty cookies Preparing them ahead of time can also save effort without sacrificing quality. Finally, glazing your crullers while warm enhances their flavor and presentation beautifully. Enjoy these delightful pastries at any occasion!
French Crullers
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
French crullers are a delightful treat that combines a light, airy texture with a crispy exterior. These doughnuts are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet indulgence any time of day. Dipped in a glossy glaze, they offer an irresistible sweetness that will leave everyone wanting more. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, French crullers will elevate any occasion with their delicious charm.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt butter with water, salt, and sugar until combined. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Add flour all at once and stir vigorously until it forms a smooth ball of dough.
- Allow to cool slightly, then mix in eggs one at a time until the dough is smooth and slightly sticky.
- Pipe long strips onto parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry crullers for about three minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Whisk powdered sugar with milk for the glaze; dip warm crullers into the glaze and let excess drip off.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
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