The first time I dipped into the world of homemade donuts, I never imagined I’d discover a treasure like the Dunkin Donuts French Cruller. The lightness of these airy treats, combined with their perfectly sweet glaze, feels almost magical. As I was savoring each bite, I thought back to the countless trips I’d made to coffee shops, the long lines always worth it for just one of those fluffy clouds.
After some experimentation in my kitchen, I realized the joy of creating these delightful pastries right at home. Not only do they rival their cafe counterparts, but they also bring a warmth and freshness that fast food simply can’t match. Picture the moment when you lift the first cruller from the bubbling oil, golden and fluffy, and watch it transform into a delectable masterpiece just waiting for a generous drizzle of glaze.
This recipe is quick and easy, making it perfect for those cozy weekend mornings or unexpected gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be able to whip up a batch of these elegant donuts that everyone will adore. Get ready to wow family and friends with homemade indulgence that’s not only flavorful but incredibly satisfying!
Why is Dunkin Donuts French Cruller irresistible?
Light, Fluffy Texture: These crullers boast an airy consistency that melts in your mouth, making every bite feel like a little piece of heaven.
Easy to Make: With just a few uncomplicated steps, you’ll have a delightful batch whipped up in no time—perfect for busy mornings.
Sweet Glaze Finish: The simple glaze adds just the right touch of sweetness, taking your homemade crullers to the next level of indulgence.
Perfect for Sharing: With 15 servings, these delightful treats are great for gatherings—everyone will be clamoring for more!
Versatile Enjoyment: Whether paired with coffee or enjoyed as a standalone snack, these crullers are a delicious addition to any moment.
Elevate your culinary skills with this easy recipe and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade goodness.
Dunkin Donuts French Cruller Ingredients
For the Cruller Batter
• 1 cup hot water – This helps create steam, making the crullers light and fluffy.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness and flavor; make sure it’s fresh for the best taste.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – Essential for structure; can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar – Just a touch for sweetness in the batter.
• pinch salt – Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 3 large eggs – Provides moisture and helps bind the ingredients together.
• 2 egg whites – Contributes to the airy texture of the cruller.
For Frying
• vegetable oil for frying – Ensure the oil is preheated to 370°F for perfectly cooked crullers.
For the Glaze
• 1 1/2 cup powdered sugar – Gives the crullers the sweet, glossy finish we love.
• 2-3 tablespoons milk – Adjust to achieve the desired glaze consistency; this is the perfect finish for your Dunkin Donuts French Cruller!
How to Make Dunkin Donuts French Cruller
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Prepare Parchment: Cut 12 squares of parchment paper, each about the size of your palm. Arrange them on a baking sheet and give them a light spray with baking spray. Set aside to prep for frying.
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Mix the Glaze: In a large mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar and milk, whisking until the mixture is smooth and lump-free. This will be your delightful glaze, set aside for later.
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, mix together the hot water, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt until fully combined and the butter is melted. Stir frequently, enjoying the aroma!
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Add Flour: Once the butter is melted, quickly stir in 1 cup of all-purpose flour using a wooden spoon. Keep stirring for about 2 minutes until the mixture forms a smooth batter—this will create that sought-after texture!
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Cool the Batter: Transfer the batter to a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment and mix on medium-high speed for 1 minute to cool down the mixture, making it easier to add the eggs.
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Incorporate Eggs: Reduce the mixer speed to medium and mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the egg whites. Continue mixing until everything is fully combined and the batter is smooth and glossy.
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Pipe the Crullers: Transfer this heavenly mixture to a large pastry bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe the donut rings onto your prepared parchment squares with confidence—this is where the magic begins!
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Heat the Oil: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 370°F. Once hot, reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain the perfect frying temperature.
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Fry the Donuts: Carefully transfer a donut to the pan with the parchment side facing up. Fry for a few seconds, then use chopsticks to gently remove and discard the paper. Fry the cruller for about 1 minute on each side until they are puffy and golden brown.
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Glaze your Crullers: Once fried, remove the donuts from the pan and place them on a cooling rack. While they’re still warm, immediately drizzle your luscious glaze over the donuts for that irresistible finish.
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Repeat and Serve: Continue the process with the remaining dough, frying and glazing each cruller.
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Let Glaze Set: Allow the glaze to settle for about 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy these delectable treats fresh and warm!
Optional: Pair with a cup of coffee for the perfect breakfast!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Dunkin Donuts French Cruller?
Looking to create the perfect pairing for your freshly made crullers? Here are some delightful ideas that will elevate your culinary experience.
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Rich Coffee: The bold flavors of a freshly brewed cup awaken the senses, making it the ultimate cruller companion.
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Sweet Tea: A subtly sweet, refreshing tea balances the sweetness of the cruller with its lightness and is perfect for afternoon snacks.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a pop of freshness and a splash of color, creating a balance of flavors and textures.
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Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of vanilla or Greek yogurt offers a tangy contrast, rounding out your breakfast beautifully while keeping it wholesome.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over crullers creates a decadent treat, perfect for a special brunch or dessert.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert, serve warm crullers alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream—pure bliss in each bite!
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Orange Juice: The citrusy brightness of fresh-squeezed orange juice cuts through the sweetness, bringing a refreshing element to your morning.
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Maple Syrup: Drizzling a bit of maple syrup brings the warmth and sweetness of breakfast favorites, making every bite even more enjoyable.
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Mint Tea: A soothing mint tea can provide a calming balance to the sweetness of the crullers, perfect for a post-lunch treat.
These ideas will surely make your Dunkin Donuts French Cruller experience even more delightful!
Dunkin Donuts French Cruller Variations
Feel free to get creative with your crullers—each twist will bring something uniquely delightful to the table!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a satisfying alternative everyone can enjoy.
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Baked Version: Instead of frying, pipe the cruller batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F for about 18-20 minutes for a lighter treat.
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Chocolate Dipped: Melt some dark or milk chocolate and dip the cooled crullers for a rich, indulgent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the batter for a burst of refreshing flavor that brightens up the simple sweetness.
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Spiced Glaze: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the powdered sugar glaze for a cozy, fragrant touch that complements the donut beautifully.
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Maple Glaze: Substitute milk with maple syrup for your glaze to give your crullers a deliciously sweet, autumnal flavor profile.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans, onto the glazed crullers while they’re still wet for a delightful crunch and added texture.
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Heat It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper into your glaze for a surprising kick that pairs perfectly with the sweet flavor of the cruller!
How to Store and Freeze Dunkin Donuts French Cruller
Room Temperature: Store crullers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Enjoy their delightful freshness during this time!
Fridge: If you want them to last a bit longer, place the crullers in the fridge for up to 5 days. Be sure to keep them covered to maintain moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the glazed donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen Dunkin Donuts French Cruller, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving!
Expert Tips for Dunkin Donuts French Cruller
Perfect Frying Temperature: Ensure the oil is at 370°F before frying. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks.
Smooth Batter: Stir the flour in quickly to avoid lumps. A smooth batter is crucial for the airy texture of your Dunkin Donuts French Cruller.
Piping Technique: Use a steady hand when piping the dough to create even cruller rings; practice will make your shapes perfect!
Avoid Greasy Crullers: Let the crullers drain on a cooling rack after frying to keep them light and fluffy without excess oil.
Glaze Timing: Glaze while the crullers are warm, allowing it to soak in and create that delicious sweet layer that everyone loves!
Make Ahead Options
These Dunkin Donuts French Crullers are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy these delightful treats without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; just mix everything as directed, then store the batter covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to fry, simply let the batter sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to take the chill off before piping. You can also make the glaze ahead and refrigerate it, allowing you to just drizzle it over the freshly fried crullers when serving. By prepping ahead, you’ll save precious time while enjoying a batch of just as delicious homemade crullers!
Dunkin Donuts French Cruller Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select eggs and butter for the Dunkin Donuts French Cruller?
Absolutely! Always go for fresh eggs and unsalted butter for this recipe. When choosing butter, look for a creamy texture and a packaging date that’s as close to today as possible. For eggs, be sure to pick those without any cracks—it’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference in flavor!
How long can I store Dunkin Donuts French Crullers, and what’s the best method?
You can store your crullers at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days, keeping them covered to preserve moisture. Just remember, the sooner you eat them, the fresher they taste!
Can I freeze Dunkin Donuts French Crullers, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can! To freeze your crullers, first glaze them and allow them to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer for about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the crullers to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they can stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight, and then warm them lightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
What should I do if my cruller batter is too thick?
If you find that your batter is too thick, it could be due to insufficient mixing or if too much flour got added. A small trick is to add a tablespoon of hot water or milk at a time while mixing to achieve that smooth, glossy consistency. If you’re using a stand mixer, ensure that everything is combined well before piping the batter.
Are Dunkin Donuts French Crullers safe for people with allergies?
It’s important to be cautious! This recipe contains eggs and wheat, which are common allergens. If you’re baking for someone with sensitivities, consider using a gluten-free flour and egg substitute like flaxseed meal combined with water. Always read labels carefully to ensure that ingredients are safe for those with specific allergies!
What’s the best way to keep my crullers from getting soggy?
To ensure your crullers remain light and fluffy, allow them to drain on a cooling rack after frying. This step is vital as it prevents excess oil from soaking into the donuts. Additionally, glazing them while they’re warm will ensure a deliciously firm glaze that won’t make them soggy!
Homemade Dunkin Donuts French Cruller You’ll Want Every Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Parchment: Cut 12 squares of parchment paper, each about the size of your palm. Arrange them on a baking sheet and give them a light spray with baking spray. Set aside to prep for frying.
- Mix the Glaze: In a large mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar and milk, whisking until the mixture is smooth and lump-free. This will be your delightful glaze, set aside for later.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, mix together the hot water, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt until fully combined and the butter is melted. Stir frequently, enjoying the aroma!
- Add Flour: Once the butter is melted, quickly stir in 1 cup of all-purpose flour using a wooden spoon. Keep stirring for about 2 minutes until the mixture forms a smooth batter.
- Cool the Batter: Transfer the batter to a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment and mix on medium-high speed for 1 minute to cool down the mixture.
- Incorporate Eggs: Reduce the mixer speed to medium and mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the egg whites. Continue mixing until everything is fully combined.
- Pipe the Crullers: Transfer this heavenly mixture to a large pastry bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe the donut rings onto your prepared parchment squares.
- Heat the Oil: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 370°F. Once hot, reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain the perfect frying temperature.
- Fry the Donuts: Carefully transfer a donut to the pan with the parchment side facing up. Fry for a few seconds, then use chopsticks to gently remove and discard the paper. Fry the cruller for about 1 minute on each side until they are puffy and golden brown.
- Glaze your Crullers: Once fried, remove the donuts from the pan and place them on a cooling rack. While they’re still warm, immediately drizzle your luscious glaze over the donuts.
- Repeat and Serve: Continue the process with the remaining dough, frying and glazing each cruller.
- Let Glaze Set: Allow the glaze to settle for about 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy these delectable treats fresh and warm!