Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the scent of freshly fried dough wafting through your kitchen, and these French crullers are no exception. Light, airy, and perfectly crispy, they offer the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making them a delightful treat for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up. With a beautiful glaze that adds an irresistible shine, these crullers are not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes! Let’s dive into this delectable recipe and bring some morning joy to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glazing)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for glazing)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12 crullers
Directions and Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine water and unsalted butter. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, allowing the butter to melt completely.
- As soon as it begins to boil, remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in the flour, salt, and sugar. Keep mixing until a smooth ball forms and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Let the dough cool for about 10 minutes, giving it a chance to settle and become less hot to the touch.
- Add the eggs one at a time to the cooled mixture, mixing well after each addition until the dough becomes smooth and glossy.
- Next, stir in the vanilla extract, infusing the dough with its rich flavor.
- Transfer the lovely dough into a piping bag fitted with a star tip, ready to create those beautiful cruller shapes.
- In a deep frying pan, heat the vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). It is essential to check the temperature so your crullers fry perfectly.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully pipe 4-inch rings of dough directly into the hot oil. Fry the crullers until they turn a glorious golden brown on one side, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon, gently flip the crullers to fry the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes until they are evenly golden.
- Once cooked, remove them from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain the excess oil.
- In a separate bowl, mix the powdered sugar with milk until you achieve a smooth glaze.
- While the crullers are still warm, dip them into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. This step is where the magic happens!
- Serve your delightful crullers warm and watch as everyone around you lights up with joy at this sweet treat!
Notes or Tips
- For added flavor, consider infusing the glaze with a touch of almond extract or a hint of citrus zest.
- Make sure to keep the oil temperature steady to achieve the perfect texture; too hot can lead to burnt crullers, while too cold can make them greasy.
- If you don’t have a piping bag, a plastic sandwich bag with a corner cut off can work just as well!
Cooking Techniques
Frying can be a little intimidating, but with the right temperature and technique, you’ll master it in no time! When frying, always ensure to work in small batches and avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy dough. Using a deep-frying thermometer can be helpful in maintaining the optimal heat at all times.
FAQ
- Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes! You can make the dough ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just allow it to come to room temperature before frying. - How do I store leftovers?
These crullers are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a day. For longer storage, consider freezing them without glaze and warming up in the oven when you want to enjoy them again.
Conclusion
Homemade French crullers are a truly exceptional way to brighten your morning or celebrate a special occasion. With a light and airy texture, combined with a sweet glaze, each bite offers a delightful crunch followed by a soft, creamy interior. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in the joy of creating these irresistible treats! They are guaranteed to impress not just you, but everyone lucky enough to taste your culinary creation.