French Crullers

There’s something magical about biting into a French cruller—the light, airy texture combined with the slight sweetness of vanilla, all enveloped in a sugar glaze. These delightful pastries are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat with a cup of coffee. If you’ve ever wondered how to make these delectable doughnuts at home, you’re in for a treat! This recipe will guide you step-by-step, ensuring you create the perfect French crullers that will impress your family and friends.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

French crullers are not just visually appealing with their unique twisted shape; they are also incredibly satisfying to eat. Their airy texture melts in your mouth, and the sweet glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness without being overwhelming. Whether served at a party or enjoyed solo, these pastries are bound to be a hit. Plus, they are versatile enough to customize with different glazes or fillings, making them a favorite for many.

What You’ll Gather

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 4 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs
• 2 egg whites (discard yolks or save for another use)
• Oil, as necessary to fill your pot 3 to 4 inches deep; vegetable oil is recommended
• 2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted if lumpy
• 1 tablespoon light-colored corn syrup, such as Caro
• 2 to 3 teaspoons hot water
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract for glaze

Equipment at a Glance

• Heavy-bottomed pot: For frying the crullers.
• Stand mixer or hand mixer: To mix the dough easily.
• Piping bag with star tip: For shaping the crullers.
• Thermometer: To check the oil temperature.
• Cooling rack: For letting the crullers cool post-frying.

From Start to Finish: French Crullers

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a medium saucepan, combine the water, butter, granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the butter is completely melted.

Step 2: Add the Flour

Once the mixture reaches a rolling boil, remove it from the heat. Quickly add the all-purpose flour, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan. Let it cool for about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Mix in the Eggs

Transfer the dough to a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Add the eggs and egg whites one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Continue to mix until the dough is smooth and glossy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a heavy-bottomed pot, pour enough vegetable oil to fill it 3 to 4 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the temperature is accurate.

Step 5: Pipe the Crullers

Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Once the oil is hot, carefully pipe the dough into the hot oil in spiral shapes, about 4 inches in diameter. Fry only a few at a time to avoid overcrowding.

Step 6: Fry Until Golden

Fry the crullers for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to flip them halfway through cooking. Once done, remove them from the oil and place them on a cooling rack lined with paper towels.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

In a medium bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, corn syrup, hot water, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more hot water if needed.

Step 8: Glaze the Crullers

Once the crullers are completely cool, dip the tops into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Place them back on the cooling rack to let the glaze set.

Ingredient Flex Options

• For a chocolate glaze, substitute half of the confectioners’ sugar with cocoa powder.
• For a citrusy flavor, add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough.
• If you prefer a spiced version, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze.
• Experiment with different extracts like almond or maple for unique flavor variations.

Testing Timeline

• Total Prep & Cooking Time: About 1 hour.
• Cooling Time: Allow at least 15 minutes for the crullers to cool before glazing.
• Glazing Time: Approximately 5-10 minutes for the glaze to set.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

French crullers are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them before glazing. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes before glazing.

Quick Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to use, allow it to come to room temperature before frying.

What oil is best for frying crullers?

Vegetable oil is recommended for frying as it has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, perfect for crullers.

Can I bake French crullers instead of frying them?

While frying gives crullers their signature texture, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes for a healthier version, though the texture will differ.

How can I tell when the oil is ready for frying?

Use a thermometer to check the temperature. It should be around 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.

Serve & Enjoy

Now that your French crullers are ready, gather your loved ones, pour some coffee or tea, and enjoy these light, fluffy delights together. The joy of making French crullers is not just in the baking process, but in the smiles they bring to those who get to indulge in them. Whether you choose to stick with the classic vanilla glaze or experiment with different flavors, these crullers are sure to become a cherished recipe in your home. Happy baking!