The moment I take a bite of a Strawberry Glazed French Cruller, I’m transported to a quaint café where the sweet aroma of pastries fills the air. These delightful treats are a celebration of summer, with their light, airy texture and the luscious strawberry glaze that glistens like a jewel. Not only are they a fun twist on traditional doughnuts, but they also serve as a beautiful centerpiece for any brunch gathering. The joy of crafting these crullers from scratch lies in mastering the classic choux pastry, making it a rewarding endeavor for any passionate home chef. Ready to elevate your culinary skills and treat your taste buds? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and discover how simple it can be to create these captivating crullers at home!

Why Are These Crullers So Irresistible?

Irresistible Delight: The combination of light choux pastry and a vibrant strawberry glaze creates a treat that’s hard to resist.

Easy to Make: Even if you’re a novice baker, the straightforward process ensures you can whip up these crullers with confidence!

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, these crullers shine during any mealtime. Pair them with a refreshing Dirty Strawberry Soda for a delightful treat!

Customization Potential: Want to try different flavors? You can easily experiment with alternative glazes like chocolate or add a hint of lemon for a zesty kick!

Crowd Pleaser: These crullers are sure to wow your family and friends. Imagine their smiles as they indulge in these freshly fried pastries!

Strawberry Glazed French Crullers Ingredients

For the Choux Pastry
• Water – Provides moisture, essential for the dough’s formation.
• Whole Milk – Adds richness and creaminess to the batter.
• Unsalted Butter – Contributes flavor and a tender texture; margarine can be a dairy-free option.
• Granulated Sugar – Offers sweetness to balance the flavors.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile of the crullers.
• Bread Flour – Forms the structure of the crullers; can substitute with all-purpose flour if necessary.
• Large Eggs – Essential for leavening; provides moisture and structure.

For Frying
• Vegetable or Canola Oil – Used for frying; choose an option suitable for high-heat cooking.

For the Strawberry Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Forms the base of the glaze.
• Fresh Strawberries – Adds natural strawberry flavor and color; can substitute with strawberry puree if needed.
• Whole Milk (for Glaze) – Adjusts the consistency of the glaze; dairy-free milk alternatives can be used.

For Garnish
• Freeze-Dried Strawberries – Provides texture and flavor for the strawberry sugar garnish; can be omitted for simplicity.
• Granulated Sugar (for Strawberry Sugar) – Sweetens the strawberry sugar sprinkle.

Get ready to indulge in the delightful world of Strawberry Glazed French Crullers!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Glazed French Crullers

Step 1: Prepare Parchment
Begin by cutting squares of parchment paper measuring 4” x 4”, then trace circles of 3-3.5” diameter on each square. This will serve as a guide for shaping your French crullers while frying. Place these parchment pieces aside until you are ready to pipe and fry the crullers.

Step 2: Make Choux Paste
In a medium saucepan, combine water, whole milk, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat and swiftly add the bread flour, stirring vigorously until the dough thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.

Step 3: Cool and Mix
Transfer the thick dough to a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Allow it to cool slightly for about 5 minutes. Next, add the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, until the dough is smooth, glossy, and elastic. This silky choux pastry will be the foundation of your Strawberry Glazed French Crullers.

Step 4: Pipe Dough
Fill a piping bag with the prepared choux dough. Carefully pipe rings onto the traced circles of parchment paper, ensuring the circles are approximately 3 to 3.5 inches in diameter. Aim for a consistent shape; this step is crucial for even frying and achieving the perfect cruller texture.

Step 5: Heat Oil
In a deep skillet or fryer, heat vegetable or canola oil to 370°F (188°C). Use a cooking thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the proper temperature. A stable oil temperature is vital for frying your crullers to a golden perfection while preventing them from becoming greasy.

Step 6: Fry Crullers
Once the oil is adequately heated, carefully place each cruller, parchment side up, into the oil. After about 45 seconds, gently remove the parchment paper; it should peel away easily. Fry the crullers for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and puffed up, then transfer them to a wire rack to drain excess oil.

Step 7: Glaze and Garnish
Allow the crullers to cool slightly on the wire rack. Meanwhile, prepare the strawberry glaze by combining powdered sugar and fresh strawberries. Dip the warm crullers into the glaze, covering the tops generously. Finally, sprinkle with strawberry sugar for an extra touch of sweetness, enhancing your delightful Strawberry Glazed French Crullers.

What to Serve with Strawberry Glazed French Crullers

Nothing enhances the joy of these luxurious crullers quite like the perfect complementary dishes—let’s craft a delightful meal ensemble.

Fresh Berries: These add a burst of juicy flavor, elevating the cruller experience while celebrating the vibrant strawberry notes. A medley of raspberries, blueberries, and sliced strawberries on the side makes an inviting touch.
Coffee or Espresso: The boldness of coffee or a rich espresso perfectly balances the sweetness of the crullers, creating the ultimate cozy breakfast pairing. It’s the classic combination that never fails to please!
Whipped Cream: A light dollop of whipped cream adds a soft, airy texture and complements the sweetness of the glaze beautifully. You might find that this extra touch turns an ordinary breakfast into a delightful indulgence.
Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy and tangy, yogurt serves as a refreshing dip for these sweet pastries while adding a wholesome element. Try a cheeky drizzle of honey for a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly!
Homemade Lemonade: The zesty sparkle of homemade lemonade awakens the palate, enhancing the strawberries in the crullers. Ice-cold, it offers a refreshing contrast perfect for summer days.
Chocolate Milkshake: For a fun twist, enjoy these crullers with a thick chocolate milkshake. The creamy indulgence works hand in hand with the fruity glaze, making for a playful pairing that delights both young and old.

Storage Tips for Strawberry Glazed French Crullers

Room Temperature: Enjoy crullers fresh out of the fryer! If left at room temperature, consume them within 18 hours for the best flavor and texture.

Fridge: If you need to store leftover crullers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them briefly in an oven before serving.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unglazed crullers in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months; simply reheat in the oven, then glaze before serving.

Reheating: To restore the light, airy texture of your crullers, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Enjoy the deliciousness of your Strawberry Glazed French Crullers once again!

Strawberry Glazed French Crullers Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these crullers your own with delightful twists that will excite your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with margarine and use almond or oat milk for a delicious dairy-free version.
Gluten-Free: Replace bread flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend to enjoy a gluten-free take on these light pastries.
Cocoa Glaze: Dip the crullers in a chocolate glaze for a decadent flavor boost that pairs perfectly with the airy texture. Your friends will adore these chocolatey treats!
Lemon Zest: Add a pinch of lemon zest to the strawberry glaze for a refreshing, citrusy kick that brightens the overall flavor.
Matcha Infusion: Swap out freeze-dried strawberries for matcha powder to introduce a unique green tea flavor that adds depth and a pop of color.
Spicy Strawberry: For a touch of warmth, sprinkle a bit of cayenne pepper into the strawberry glaze for a delightful contrast of sweet and spicy.
Berry Blast: Mix in a medley of freeze-dried raspberries and blueberries to your glaze for a berry explosion that’s as colorful as it is delicious.

Want to try something extra special to accompany your crullers? Pair them with a refreshing Dirty Strawberry Soda for a delightful treat that brightens up any gathering!

Make Ahead Options

These Strawberry Glazed French Crullers are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to indulge in delicious pastries without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the choux pastry up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its quality. When you’re ready to fry, allow the dough to come to room temperature before piping your crullers. Additionally, you can mix the strawberry glaze and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently before dipping. This way, you’ll have freshly fried, irresistible pastries ready to serve to your family with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Strawberry Glazed French Crullers

Oil Temperature Control: Ensure the oil temperature remains stable using a thermometer; this is crucial for achieving perfectly fried crullers without them becoming greasy.

Parchment Precision: Use a ruler or glass to mark uniform parchment paper sizes to ensure consistency in your crullers’ shapes and sizes as you pipe.

Cooling Matters: Don’t skip the cooling step after mixing the choux; this prevents the eggs from cooking too quickly, which can ruin the dough.

Perfect Frying Technique: Keep the parchment paper on the crullers for the initial frying period to avoid sticking. Remove it only when the dough has set slightly.

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh strawberries for the glaze to ensure vibrant flavor and color; frozen or pureed options can dilute the taste significantly.

Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add your personal touch! You can try different flavor variations for the strawberry glaze or add spices for a unique twist to your crullers.

Strawberry Glazed French Crullers Recipe FAQs

What type of strawberries should I use for the glaze?
Absolutely! Fresh strawberries are best for crafting the glaze, as they provide vibrant flavor and color. Look for bright, firm berries without dark spots or signs of mushiness. If fresh strawberries are out of season, you can opt for high-quality strawberry puree as a substitute, but the flavor may be less intense.

How should I store leftover crullers?
If you have any crullers left (though I doubt they’ll last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. They’re best when fresh, so when you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat briefly in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 5-7 minutes to regain their crispness.

Can I freeze crullers?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze your unglazed Strawberry Glazed French Crullers! To do this, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or resealable bag, where they’ll keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat them in the oven, then glaze as per the recipe!

What should I do if the choux pastry is too runny?
If your choux pastry seems too runny, it might need a bit more flour. After bringing your dough together in the pot, allow it to cook slightly longer to evaporate more moisture, ensuring it thickens sufficiently. Remember, it should be smooth and glossy, and easily hold a shape when piped!

Can I make these crullers dairy-free?
Very! You can substitute unsalted butter with margarine or a dairy-free butter alternative. Additionally, use dairy-free milk while preparing the choux pastry and glaze, making these delicious treats suitable for everyone to enjoy. Just check the labels to ensure they suit your dietary needs.

How can I customize the flavor of my crullers?
The customization options are endless! Feel free to play around with different frostings or glazes, like chocolate or caramel. Adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough or a hint of lemon zest into the glaze can provide vibrant flavor variations. Don’t be shy to experiment—after all, the more the merrier!