As I stepped outside on a sunny day, the scent of strawberries wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to my favorite summer memories. That’s when the idea hit me: what better way to celebrate the season than with Strawberry Glazed French Crullers? This irresistible recipe combines the delicate and airy goodness of choux pastry with a vibrant homemade strawberry glaze, ensuring each bite feels like a little slice of heaven. These crullers are not only a fantastic homemade treat but also a quick crowd-pleaser for those summer brunches and gatherings. The best part? You can whip them up in no time, leaving you more moments to savor the sunshine. Ready to bring some joy to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why are these crullers a must-try?

Light and Airy Texture: These crullers deliver the quintessential combination of crispy outsides and fluffy insides that will leave you craving more.

Summer Freshness: The vibrant strawberry glaze perfectly captures the essence of summer, making them an ideal dessert for any warm-weather gathering.

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can master the art of choux pastry, impressing family and friends without the fuss of complicated recipes.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for brunch or a picnic, these crullers shine, bringing smiles to everyone’s faces, much like my Strawberry Spinach Salad adds freshness to a meal.

Customizable Delight: Feel free to switch up the flavors by using different berries for the glaze, just as I did with my Roasted Strawberry Whipped Ricotta Toast for an exciting twist.

Strawberry Glazed French Crullers Ingredients

For the Crullers
• Water (½ cup) – Adds moisture to the batter, creating that perfect airy texture.
• Whole Milk (½ cup) – Enhances richness and contributes to a tender texture, essential for delicious pastries.
• Unsalted Butter (½ cup) – Provides fat for flavor and richness; using unsalted lets you control the saltiness.
• Granulated Sugar (2 tbsp) – Sweetens the pastry subtly, merging beautifully with the glaze.
• Salt (½ tsp) – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors, a must for any baked good!
• Bread Flour (1 ⅓ cups) – Gives the structure necessary for the crullers to rise perfectly.
• Large Eggs (4) – Binds the ingredients and contributes to leavening and structure, making them light and airy.
• Vegetable or Canola Oil – Enough to fill a deep fryer or skillet halfway; essential for that perfect fry.

For the Strawberry Glaze
• Powdered Sugar (2 cups) – Sweetens and gives a smooth consistency to the glaze, making it irresistible.
• Fresh Strawberries (¼ cup) – Adds natural fruity flavor and vibrant color to the glaze, embodying summer bliss.
• Whole Milk (3-4 tbsp) – Used to achieve the desired consistency of the glaze, it should be pourable yet thick.

Optional for Garnish
• Freeze-Dried Strawberries (½ cup) – Adds concentrated strawberry flavor and color for making strawberry sugar, enhancing every bite!
• Granulated Sugar (¼ cup) – Mix with freeze-dried strawberries for a delightful garnish that’s as pretty as it is tasty.

These Strawberry Glazed French Crullers are sure to be a hit, making your summer gatherings brighter!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Glazed French Crullers

Step 1: Prep Parchment Squares
Begin by cutting out 18 squares of parchment paper, each measuring approximately 4″x4″. If you prefer a more precise shape for your crullers, lightly trace three to three-and-a-half-inch circles onto the parchment. This will help guide you when piping the dough. Set these squares aside on a baking sheet for easy access later.

Step 2: Make Pâte à Choux
In a medium saucepan, combine ½ cup water, ½ cup whole milk, ½ cup unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon salt. Heat over medium-high until the mixture reaches a rolling boil. Once boiling, add in 1⅓ cups of bread flour all at once, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough pulls away from the sides of the pan and forms a ball, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 3: Beat and Incorporate Eggs
Transfer the hot dough to a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Allow it to cool slightly, about 5 minutes, until steam dissipates. Then add four large eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly on medium speed after each addition. The result should be a smooth, glossy batter that holds its shape—this is your choux pastry, essential for those delicious Strawberry Glazed French Crullers.

Step 4: Pipe Crullers
Prepare a piping bag fitted with a star tip and fill it with the prepared choux pastry. Carefully pipe rings of dough onto the prepared parchment squares, ensuring they are about 2-3 inches wide. Leave some space between each cruller to allow for expansion while frying. It’s essential that the dough maintains its shape, creating that signature cruller look.

Step 5: Fry Crullers
Heat vegetable or canola oil in a deep fryer or deep skillet, bringing it to 370°F (188°C) for optimal frying. Carefully lower the parchment squares with the piped dough into the hot oil, frying for about 45 seconds. Once the paper loosens, remove it and continue frying the crullers for an additional 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and puffed. Drain them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 6: Glaze and Serve
After allowing the crullers to cool for a few minutes, prepare the glaze. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of powdered sugar, ¼ cup fresh strawberries (pureed), and 3-4 tablespoons of whole milk to achieve your desired consistency. Dip the warm crullers into the strawberry glaze, coating them generously, and if desired, sprinkle with optional strawberry sugar. Serve immediately for the freshest taste of these scrumptious Strawberry Glazed French Crullers.

What to Serve with Strawberry Glazed French Crullers

Brighten up your dessert table with delightful pairings that elevate your crullers into a full meal experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal berries and citrus, this refreshing salad adds a burst of color and complements the glaze’s sweetness perfectly.
Side of Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds a luscious touch, balancing the cruller’s airy texture while inviting a dip.
Iced Coffee: A chilled, bold coffee offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness, making each bite of your crullers even more enjoyable.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream serves as a delightful base under the glaze, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and temperatures.
Lemonade: A zesty lemonade cuts through the sweetness, brightening your palate and providing a lovely balance to the rich crullers.
Almond Croissant: The nutty flavor enhances the crullers’ sweetness, making for an indulgent treat when shared at brunch gatherings or family breakfasts.
Sparkling Wine: This bubbly option elevates any occasion while adding a touch of elegance to your sweet spread, perfectly harmonizing with the berry notes of the glaze.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of chocolate sauce takes the cruller experience to another level, offering a new depth of flavor. Enjoy your crullers!

Strawberry Glazed French Crullers Variations

Feel free to elevate your cruller experience by customizing these delicious treats to suit your taste buds!

Berry Twist: Substitute fresh strawberries in the glaze with raspberries or blackberries for a vibrant and tangy flavor.
Lemon Sugar: Omit strawberry sugar and sprinkle a delightful lemon sugar for a bright, zesty twist that pairs beautifully with any glaze.
Gluten-Free: Replace bread flour with a gluten-free flour blend to adapt the recipe for gluten-sensitive friends while maintaining the airy texture.
Chocolate Glaze: For a rich indulgence, melt dark chocolate and drizzle over the cooled crullers instead of the strawberry glaze. It’s decadent and delightful!
Spiced Glaze: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the sweetness perfectly. This little change can make every bite feel like a cozy hug.
Fruity Infusion: Mix a tablespoon of pure fruit puree, like mango or peach, into the strawberry glaze for a tropical flair that’s lovely in the summer.
Alternative Milk: Swap out whole milk in the glaze for almond, oat, or coconut milk for those who prefer plant-based Options. It adds a unique flavor twist while keeping it delicious!
Churro Crullers: For a fun texture twist, after frying, toss the crullers in cinnamon-sugar for a churro-inspired delight, bringing a whole new vibe to your sweet treat.

Discover even more flavor inspiration by treating yourself to the delightful notes of my Honey Sriracha Glazed Meatballs or the freshness of my Grilled Honey Glazed Carrots! Embrace the creativity in your kitchen and make these crullers uniquely yours!

Storage Tips for Strawberry Glazed French Crullers

Room Temperature: Enjoy freshly made crullers on the same day for the best taste, but they can be stored at room temperature for up to 4 hours in a cool, dry place.

Fridge: If you need to store leftover crullers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 additional day to maintain their freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unglazed crullers in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature and glaze just before serving for optimal flavor.

Reheating: To reheat, place crullers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes to restore their crispy texture. Add the strawberry glaze after reheating for the best results.

Make Ahead Options

These Strawberry Glazed French Crullers are perfect for those busy days when you want to enjoy a delightful treat without spending hours in the kitchen! You can prepare the choux pastry up to 24 hours in advance; simply pipe the dough onto parchment squares, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to fry, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before lowering them into the hot oil. For the glaze, you can mix it ahead of time; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To serve, dip the freshly fried crullers into the glaze, and you’ll have a delicious dessert that’s just as irresistible as if made from scratch the same day!

Expert Tips for Strawberry Glazed French Crullers

Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is at 370°F before frying. If it’s too cool, the crullers will absorb excess oil and become greasy.
Cool Before Glazing: Allow the crullers to cool for a few minutes after frying to prevent the glaze from melting off. This helps maintain that glossy finish.
Proper Piping: The batter should be thick yet smooth. If it’s too runny, the crullers won’t hold their shape while frying. Adjust with a little more flour if needed.
Use Fresh Strawberries: Opt for fresh strawberries in the glaze for the best flavor and vibrant color. Frozen may dilute the taste.
Don’t Overcrowd the Fryer: Frying in small batches ensures even cooking and keeps the oil temperature steady, crucial for perfect Strawberry Glazed French Crullers.

Strawberry Glazed French Crullers Recipe FAQs

What kind of strawberries should I use for the glaze?
Absolutely! For the glaze, I recommend using fresh strawberries as they provide the best flavor and vibrant color. Look for ripe strawberries that are bright red and firm to the touch. Avoid any with dark spots or bruises, as they can affect the taste and appearance of the glaze.

How should I store leftover crullers?
If you have any leftover crullers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 additional day. For optimal taste and texture, it’s best to enjoy them fresh on the same day they are made. If the crullers are unglazed, they can be stored at room temperature for up to 4 hours.

Can I freeze Strawberry Glazed French Crullers?
Yes, indeed! To freeze the crullers, it’s best to glaze them right before serving. Store unglazed crullers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature and prepare your glaze fresh. For the best results, reheat your crullers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes to revive their crispy texture before glazing.

How do I troubleshoot if my crullers don’t rise properly?
If your crullers don’t rise as expected, there are a couple of common issues to check. First, ensure that the oil temperature is indeed at 370°F (188°C) before frying; if it’s too low, the crullers will absorb more oil and remain dense. Secondly, make sure the batter is the right consistency—smooth and thick enough to hold shape while being piped. If the batter seems too runny, you might need to adjust with a touch more flour.

Are there any dietary considerations for making these crullers?
When making these crullers, be aware of allergies related to eggs, dairy, and gluten, as they contain significant amounts of all three. For those with gluten intolerance, you could try using a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, keeping in mind that the texture could vary. If you have vegan considerations, choux pastry can be more challenging to adapt, but there are egg substitutes you could explore like aquafaba, although the results may not be identical.

What should I do if my crullers soak up too much oil when frying?
If you find that your crullers are soaking up too much oil, it’s likely that your oil temperature was too low. Always make sure to use a thermometer to monitor the heat, ensuring it reaches 370°F before frying. Additionally, don’t overcrowd the fryer with too many crullers at once. Frying in smaller batches helps maintain the temperature and leads to a crisp, non-greasy result.