Strawberry Glazed French Crullers

Discover the irresistible flavor of Strawberry Glazed French Crullers, a light, airy treat perfect for any sweet craving or special occasion. These delicate pastries boast a crispy exterior with a tender, pillowy interior, all beautifully coated in a glossy strawberry glaze that offers just the right sweetness and a burst of fresh fruit flavor. Whether you’re indulging with your morning coffee or sharing with friends at a gathering, Strawberry Glazed French Crullers are a delightful way to brighten any day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light and airy delight: The French cruller dough creates a perfectly crisp outer shell with a soft, cloud-like interior for an unforgettable texture.
• Fresh strawberry glaze: The strawberry topping adds vibrant color and a refreshing fruity sweetness that complements the pastry beautifully.
• Quick and simple: This recipe uses basic ingredients and straightforward techniques to deliver bakery-quality treats at home.
• Versatile treat: Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or party platters, making it a flexible addition to your recipe box.
• Impresses every time: The elegant shape and rich flavor make these crullers a show-stopping delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a few simple ingredients, you can create Strawberry Glazed French Crullers that taste like they came right out of a French bakery. Each component plays a key role in flavor, texture, and that stunning strawberry glaze finish.

• Water: Essential for creating steam that puffs the dough into its airy texture.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender dough with a delicious flavor.
• Flour: Provides the structure needed for the cruller’s distinctive shape and chew.
• Eggs: Give the dough elasticity and contribute to its delicate crumb.
• Strawberries: Fresh or pureed strawberries are key for the sweet and tangy glaze.
• Powdered sugar: Creates a smooth, shiny glaze that balances tartness with sweetness.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor depth of both the dough and glaze.
• Salt: A pinch to amplify all the flavors.
• Oil for frying: Choose a neutral-flavored oil like canola or vegetable for perfect frying.

Variations for Strawberry Glazed French Crullers

Feel free to get creative and adapt the Strawberry Glazed French Crullers recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences. These variations are easy to do without sacrificing flavor or texture.

• Chocolate drizzle: Add a layer of melted dark or white chocolate on top of the strawberry glaze for a decadent finish.
• Gluten-free version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
• Mixed berry glaze: Replace or combine strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a more complex fruity flavor.
• Vegan modification: Use plant-based butter and egg replacers to make these crullers entirely vegan-friendly.
• Lemon zest glaze: Incorporate fresh lemon zest into the glaze for a zesty twist that brightens the strawberry notes.

How to Make Strawberry Glazed French Crullers

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a medium saucepan, bring water, butter, and salt to a boil. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the flour until the mixture forms a smooth ball. Let cool slightly before adding eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly to achieve a glossy and thick dough.

Step 2: Pipe the Crullers

Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe 3-4 inch circles onto parchment paper, forming the iconic ridged cruller shape. Make sure the circles are uniform for even cooking.

Step 3: Fry the Crullers

Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 375°F (190°C). Carefully lower each cruller into the hot oil, frying until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Glaze

In a blender or food processor, puree fresh strawberries until smooth. Strain to remove seeds if desired, then mix with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until glossy and pourable.

Step 5: Glaze the Crullers

Once crullers are cool enough to handle but still warm, dip the tops into the strawberry glaze or drizzle glaze over each cruller. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Glazed French Crullers

• Perfect oil temperature: Keep frying oil steady at around 375°F for crispy yet tender crullers without absorbing too much oil.
• Egg temperature matters: Add eggs to the dough once cooled slightly to prevent scrambling and ensure a smooth batter.
• Pipe evenly: Use a consistent piping pressure and size to get uniform crullers that cook evenly.
• Fresh glaze: Make the strawberry glaze fresh to preserve vibrant color and flavor without bitterness.
• Drain thoroughly: Place fried crullers on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil for a lighter bite.

How to Serve Strawberry Glazed French Crullers

Garnishes

Enhance presentation by dusting powdered sugar lightly over the glazed crullers or garnishing with fresh strawberry slices and mint leaves to add freshness and flair.

Side Dishes

Pair Strawberry Glazed French Crullers with a creamy latte, hot tea, or fresh fruit salad for a balanced and delightful snack or dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange crullers on a cake stand for a stunning centerpiece, or layer them in a glass trifle with whipped cream and berries for a whimsical dessert twist your guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store crullers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their crispness and freshness.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze unglazed crullers in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag; thaw and glaze when ready to serve.

Reheating

Reheat crullers briefly in a warm oven at 300°F (150°C) to restore crispness without melting the glaze or making them soggy.

FAQs

What makes French crullers different from regular doughnuts?

French crullers use a choux pastry dough, which puffs up to create a delicate, airy texture that’s lighter than regular yeast or cake doughnuts.

Can I use frozen strawberries for the glaze?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well; just thaw and drain excess liquid before pureeing to avoid a runny glaze.

Is it necessary to fry crullers, or can they be baked?

Traditional French crullers are fried for that classic texture, though baking is possible but may result in a less crisp exterior.

How long should I wait before glazing after frying?

Allow crullers to cool slightly so the glaze adheres better without melting off, usually about 5-10 minutes after frying.

Can I make the dough in advance?

It’s best to prepare and fry the dough fresh for optimal texture, but dough can be refrigerated briefly if needed and brought to room temperature before piping.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Glazed French Crullers bring the bakery experience right to your kitchen with their irresistible flavor and elegant presentation. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savoring a quiet moment alone, this recipe is sure to become a favorite you return to again and again. Give these delightful crullers a try today—your sweet tooth will thank you!

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