Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the sun shines brighter and summer vibes fill the air, there’s nothing quite like the sweet aroma of freshly fried dough wafting through my kitchen. That’s when I turn to my beloved Strawberry Glazed French Crullers. With a light and airy choux pastry that’s golden brown and crispy on the outside, yet soft inside, these delightful treats are a perfect summertime indulgence. Dipped in a luscious homemade strawberry glaze and sprinkled with strawberry sugar, they make for an irresistible breakfast or snack option. Not only are they a fun way to impress family and friends, but they also offer a delightful escape from the mundane fast-food routine. Have you ever thought about the joy of enjoying crullers made with love and fresh ingredients? Let me share the secret to creating these scrumptious summer delights! Why are Crullers the Ultimate Summer Treat? Irresistible Flavor: The combination of fluffy choux pastry and vibrant strawberry glaze delivers a taste sensation that’s hard to resist. Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any advanced baking techniques, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned chefs alike. Versatile Delight: While strawberry shines in this recipe, feel free to experiment with other fruit flavors in your glaze for a unique twist. Perfect for Sharing: Serve these crullers at brunch or picnics, and watch them disappear as everyone raves about the tasty treat you’ve created. You might also enjoy pairing them with delightful options like French Toast Waffles for a well-rounded meal. Freshness is Key: Using fresh strawberries really elevates the flavor, while the delightful texture provides the perfect balance between crispy and chewy. You can store any leftovers in an airtight container, but I bet they won’t last long! Strawberry Glazed French Crullers Ingredients For the Choux Pastry Water – Adds moisture to the dough, making the crullers light and airy. Whole Milk – Enhances richness and flavor; substitute with non-dairy milk for a dairy-free version. Unsalted Butter – Provides fat for flavor and richness; can be replaced with a non-dairy margarine if needed. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough beautifully; no direct substitution recommended for optimal taste. Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavors in the pastry. Bread Flour – Gives structure and chewiness to the crullers; all-purpose flour can be used, but texture may differ. Large Eggs – Vital for moisture and structure, ensuring the proper rise and fluffy texture of the crullers. For Frying Vegetable or Canola Oil – Essential for frying; ensure oil is deep enough to allow for proper frying. For the Strawberry Glaze Powdered Sugar – The base ingredient for the strawberry glaze; makes it sweet and smooth. Fresh Strawberries – Provides delightful flavor for the glaze; freeze-dried strawberries pureed can substitute if fresh is unavailable. Whole Milk for Glaze – Used to adjust the consistency of the glaze to perfection. For Optional Strawberry Sugar Freeze Dried Strawberries – Finely processed to create a unique strawberry sugar, adding a crunchy finish. Granulated Sugar for Strawberry Sugar – Adds sweetness to the topping and enhances the overall flavor of the crullers. These Strawberry Glazed French Crullers are sure to bring smiles to your table. Enjoy making and savoring these delicious summer delights! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Glazed French Crullers Step 1: Prepare Baking Supplies Start by cutting 18 squares of parchment paper, each measuring 4” x 4”. For easier piping later, you may trace circles on them as guides. This setup will allow you to place the crullers directly into the hot oil without fussing over the shape. Make sure to have a piping bag ready with a large star tip for creating those beautiful cruller rings. Step 2: Make Choux Pastry In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of whole milk, ½ cup of unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once it reaches a rolling boil, remove it from heat and add 1 ½ cups of bread flour. Stir vigorously until a thick, glossy dough forms, pulling away from the sides of the pan. Step 3: Cool the Dough Transfer the choux pastry mixture to a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Beat on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, or until the dough cools down and steam dissipates. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your Strawberry Glazed French Crullers. The dough should be warm but not hot to the touch, allowing for proper egg incorporation in the next step. Step 4: Add Eggs With the mixer on low speed, gradually add 4 large eggs to the cooled dough, one at a time. Allow each egg to fully incorporate before adding the next. After all the eggs are mixed in, continue beating for another 2-3 minutes until the dough is smooth, glossy, and elastic. This developed structure will help your crullers rise beautifully during frying. Step 5: Pipe Dough Using your prepared piping bag, fill it with the choux pastry. Pipe circular rings onto the parchment squares, aiming for about 3 inches in diameter. Ensure that the circles are approximately ½ inch thick to achieve the perfect cruller shape. Once piped, let them sit while you heat the oil to get ready for frying. Step 6: Heat Oil In a deep fryer or a large skillet, pour enough vegetable or canola oil to fill halfway, about 3-4 inches deep. Heat the oil to 370°F (188°C). Use a kitchen thermometer for accurate readings, as achieving the right temperature is crucial for frying the crullers to golden perfection. Make sure the oil is hot enough to prevent the crullers from absorbing too much oil. Step 7: Fry Crullers Carefully place the crullers, parchment paper side down, into the hot oil. Let each cruller fry for about 45 seconds before gently removing the parchment. Fry the crullers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are a beautiful golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to flip them halfway through for even cooking, ensuring they become airy and light. Step 8: Cool and Glaze Once golden and crispy, transfer the fried crullers to a wire rack to cool slightly. Meanwhile, prepare the strawberry glaze by combining powdered sugar with pureed fresh strawberries and a dash of milk. Dip each warm cruller into the glaze, coating it thoroughly, and then sprinkle with optional strawberry sugar for an extra sweet crunch. Make Ahead Options These Strawberry Glazed French Crullers are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the choux pastry dough up to 24 hours in advance and keep it stored in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. On the day you plan to serve, simply pipe and fry the crullers as instructed after letting the dough sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. For the glaze, you can mix the strawberry components ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Just re-whisk before dipping your warm crullers for a luscious finish that tastes just as delicious as freshly made! Expert Tips for Strawberry Glazed French Crullers Pre-measure Ingredients: Ensuring all ingredients are pre-measured will make your baking process smoother and help prevent any mistakes in the delicate choux pastry. Parchment Perfection: Using parchment paper squares not only aids in easy transfer but also helps maintain the shape of crullers when frying, ensuring consistent results. Oil Temperature Control: Keep a close eye on the oil temperature, as too hot oil can burn the crullers while too cool oil can make them greasy. Aim for a steady 370°F (188°C). Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature consistent, which results in evenly cooked and beautifully puffed Strawberry Glazed French Crullers. Cool Before Glazing: Allow the crullers to cool slightly before dipping them into the glaze to ensure the glaze adheres properly and doesn’t melt off. Strawberry Glazed French Crullers Variations Feeling inspired to put your own twist on these delightful crullers? Let’s explore some creative variations to make them uniquely yours! Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk and butter with your favorite non-dairy milk and margarine to create a vegan-friendly treat. This ensures everyone can enjoy the light, airy goodness of crullers without sacrificing flavor. Berry Blast: Instead of fresh strawberries, try using raspberry or blueberry puree in the glaze for a vibrant flavor twist. The natural fruits will not only bring in unique colors but also offer a delightful taste sensation. Chocolate Lover’s Treat: Add cocoa powder to the glaze for a rich chocolate strawberry fusion that will delight chocolate lovers. Alternatively, dip the crullers in melted chocolate for an indulgent dessert that feels ultra-luxurious. Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, such as pistachios or almonds, into the glaze for a delightful crunch and flavor contrast. This adds an unexpected textural element that elevates the whole cruller experience. Spicy Surprise: Infuse a hint of cayenne or chili powder into the glaze for an exciting spicy twist. This unexpected kick can turn your sweet treat into an adventurous sensation that surprises your taste buds. Herbal Infusion: Try adding a touch of fresh mint or basil to your glaze for a refreshing herbal note. The combination of fruits and herbs brings a delightful summer atmosphere to your crullers. Glazed Bites with a Twist: Instead of traditional rings, pipe small bite-sized crullers and serve with an array of glazes such as raspberry or matcha. These mini versions are perfect for sharing at gatherings, accommodating diverse tastes. Lemon Zest Kick: Add lemon zest into the glaze to create a bright, citrusy complement to the strawberries. This touch of acidity balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully. Embrace your culinary creativity and explore these delightful variations. Pair them with easy-to-make treats like Strawberry Cheesecake Dump or Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch for a delicious brunch spread! What to Serve with Strawberry Glazed French Crullers Indulging in strawberry-glazed delights is just the beginning—let’s complement these airy treats with some delightful pairings that elevate your dining experience. Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal berries and citrus adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the sweetness of the crullers and offering a burst of flavor. Rich Coffee Brew: The bold, robust notes of coffee perfectly juxtapose the sweetness of the crullers, creating a comforting morning ritual that’s hard to beat. Fluffy Scrambled Eggs: Soft, creamy scrambled eggs create a delightful savory balance alongside the sweet crullers, making for an inviting brunch spread. Classic Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of chocolate can turn a simple dessert into a cozy treat, enhancing the delightful berry flavors with its rich depth. Crispy Bacon Strips: The salty crunch of crispy bacon pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the crullers, adding a satisfying texture contrast and savory punch. Lemonade or Iced Tea: The bright, refreshing taste of lemonade or iced tea not only quenches your thirst but also lifts the flavors of strawberry to new heights. Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream: Add a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert twist, where warm crullers meet cool, velvety smooth sweetness. Pairing these delightful choices with your homemade Strawberry Glazed French Crullers will surely create a memorable meal, filled with smiles and satisfaction. Enjoy the journey of cooking and sharing with loved ones! How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Glazed French Crullers Room Temperature: Keep crullers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day, but they’re best enjoyed fresh to preserve that delightful texture. Fridge: If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Reheating in a warm oven will help restore some of the original crispiness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unglazed crullers in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and glaze before serving. Reheating: Reheat any stored crullers in a warm oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their warm, fluffy delight before enjoying again. Strawberry Glazed French Crullers Recipe FAQs What is the best way to select fresh strawberries for the glaze? When choosing strawberries, look for ones that are bright red, firm, and free of dark spots or mold. The berries should also have a sweet aroma, as this indicates ripeness. I always opt for organic when possible, as they tend to have more flavor. How should I store leftover crullers? Place any leftover crullers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day for the best texture. If you need to keep them longer, it’s best to refrigerate them, but they will become slightly denser. Always reheat them in a warm oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their delicious fluffiness. Can I freeze Strawberry Glazed French Crullers? Absolutely! To freeze, first allow the unglazed crullers to cool completely. Then, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and glaze them right before serving. What should I do if my crullers are greasy after frying? If your crullers turn out greasy, it may be that your oil temperature was too low when frying. Always aim for 370°F (188°C). To prevent this, use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the oil temperature closely. Nonetheless, if they are already greasy, placing them on a paper towel immediately after frying can help absorb excess oil. Are Strawberry Glazed French Crullers suitable for people with allergies? These delightful crullers contain gluten and dairy, so they would not be suitable for those with gluten intolerance or dairy allergies. However, you can easily make them dairy-free by substituting non-dairy milk and margarine for their respective ingredients. If you’re looking to make them gluten-free, I recommend using a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, though the texture may differ slightly. How can I adjust the sweetness of the glaze? To control the sweetness of your strawberry glaze, start by adding the powdered sugar gradually. Mix it in until you achieve your desired sweetness and consistency. If it becomes too thick, a small splash of milk can help thin it out. For a less sweet touch, you can also incorporate a bit of lemon juice, which adds a lovely freshness. These Strawberry Glazed French Crullers Recipe FAQs should help you create these delightful summer treats with ease and confidence! Strawberry Glazed French Crullers That Melt in Your Mouth Delight in these Strawberry Glazed French Crullers, a perfect summer treat that is light, airy, and irresistible. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 12 crullersCourse: DessertsCuisine: FrenchCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Choux Pastry1 cup Water1 cup Whole Milk Substitute with non-dairy milk for dairy-free.0.5 cup Unsalted Butter Can be replaced with non-dairy margarine.1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar1 pinch Salt1.5 cups Bread Flour All-purpose flour can be used.4 large Eggs Vital for moisture and structure.For Frying3-4 inches Vegetable or Canola Oil Ensure oil is deep enough.For the Strawberry Glaze2 cups Powdered Sugar1 cup Fresh Strawberries Can use freeze-dried strawberries pureed.2 tablespoons Whole Milk for Glaze Adjusts consistency.For Optional Strawberry Sugar0.5 cup Freeze Dried Strawberries Finely processed.0.5 cup Granulated Sugar for Strawberry Sugar Equipment piping bagStand MixerDeep fryer or large skilletKitchen thermometer Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberry Glazed French CrullersPrepare Baking Supplies by cutting squares of parchment paper and having a piping bag ready.Make Choux Pastry by boiling water, milk, butter, sugar, and salt, then adding flour.Cool the Dough in a stand mixer to bring the temperature down for egg incorporation.Add Eggs gradually to the cooled dough until well mixed and smooth.Pipe Dough into circular rings on parchment squares.Heat Oil to 370°F (188°C) for frying.Fry Crullers until golden brown, flipping halfway through.Cool and Glaze the crullers by dipping them into the strawberry glaze. Nutrition Serving: 1crullerCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 2gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 60mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg NotesPre-measure ingredients for smoother baking. Use parchment squares for easy transfer. Monitor oil temperature closely. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
