Description
These French Crullers are classic, delicate donuts made from pâte à choux dough, fried until golden brown, and coated in a simple vanilla glaze. Light and airy with a crisp exterior, they’re the perfect treat with coffee or tea!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Crullers:
- 1 cup water
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for extra puff)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Make the Pâte à Choux Dough:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine water, butter, sugar, and salt. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the flour all at once, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
2. Add the Eggs:
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough should be smooth, glossy, and pipeable.
- Stir in vanilla extract and baking powder (if using).
3. Shape the Crullers:
- Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.
- Pipe 2-3 inch circles onto parchment paper squares.
4. Fry the Crullers:
- Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully drop each piped cruller (parchment side up) into the oil. Remove the parchment paper with tongs as it releases.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Make the Glaze & Coat:
- Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Dip the warm crullers into the glaze, letting excess drip off.
- Let set on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- No deep frying? Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden and puffed, then glaze.
- Extra flavor? Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon or lemon zest to the dough.
- Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for 1 day.