French Crullers are light, airy doughnuts made from pâte à choux pastry, resulting in a delicate and slightly crisp exterior with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior. These beautiful, golden pastries are fried until perfectly puffed, then dipped in a sweet glaze that adds the perfect touch of sweetness. The unique ridged shape of crullers makes them stand out, and their light texture makes them irresistible. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, dessert, or with an afternoon coffee, French Crullers are a delightful and elegant treat that’s surprisingly simple to make at home.
Ingredients
For the crullers:
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3-4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Oil for frying
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the pâte à choux: In a medium saucepan, combine the water, milk, butter, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the flour all at once, mixing vigorously until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Incorporate the eggs: Let the dough cool slightly, then transfer it to a large bowl. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough should be smooth, glossy, and pipeable but not too runny. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Prepare the crullers for frying: Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Cut out squares of parchment paper and pipe rings of dough onto each square.
- Fry the crullers: Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Gently lower each cruller (with the parchment) into the oil, paper-side up. After a few seconds, the parchment will release from the dough; remove it with tongs. Fry the crullers for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and puffed. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Dip the warm crullers into the glaze and let them set on a wire rack.
These French Crullers are light, crispy, and perfectly sweet with a glossy glaze that makes them a beautiful and indulgent treat for any occasion!
