The unmistakable scent of warm spices fills the kitchen, wrapping around me like a comforting hug. As the oil crackles to life, I can’t help but feel a rush of excitement at the thought of making Spiced Sugar Crullers, those delightful, golden treats that seem to turn an ordinary day into something special.
Just the idea of biting into one of these airy, slightly crispy doughnuts coated in a luscious blend of cinnamon, cardamom, and a secret hint of nutmeg brings a smile to my face. They’re not just any doughnuts; they’re a celebration of flavor that brings back memories of weekend brunches and cozy gatherings. Best of all, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between unbeatable taste and straightforward preparation, making it a fabulous choice for anyone craving a break from fast food. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner at home, this step-by-step guide will lead you to create these irresistible crullers that will have everyone begging for the recipe. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of homemade treats!
Why are Spiced Sugar Crullers a must-try?
Irresistible aroma: The warm blend of cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg fills your kitchen with a cozy scent.
Light and airy: These doughnuts have a delightful texture that’s crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for brunches or family gatherings, they’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Quick prep: With just a bit of time, you can enjoy these homemade delights—much better than fast food!
Versatile treat: Enjoy them as is or get creative with toppings for an extra flair.
These Spiced Sugar Crullers promise to brighten your day with their deliciousness!
Spiced Sugar Cruller Ingredients
For the Spiced Sugar
• 200 g granulated sugar – This sweetness beautifully complements the warm spices.
• 2 Tbsp ground cinnamon – Adds a cozy flavor that makes every bite comforting.
• 1 tsp ground cardamom – Introduces an intriguing complexity to the spice blend.
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg – Just a hint for that perfect seasonal note.
• ¼ tsp ground cloves – Deepens the flavor profile, making them irresistible.
For the Doughnut Batter
• 125 g whole milk – Creates a rich base that enhances texture and flavor.
• 125 g water – Balances the consistency, helping to create that delightful airy texture.
• 110 g unsalted butter, cut into cubes – Ensures a buttery richness that elevates every cruller.
• 20 g sugar – A touch more sweetness that melds beautifully with spices.
• ½ tsp kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors, making them pop.
• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste – Infuses a gorgeous depth and aroma to the dough.
• 175 g all-purpose flour – Provides the structure for those light and fluffy crullers.
• 240 g egg, lightly beaten, plus one extra egg if needed – Vital for achieving that perfect consistency; add more if needed!
• Neutral oil for frying – Essential for that golden, crispy exterior you crave.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to making delightful Spiced Sugar Crullers that are sure to impress!
How to Make Spiced Sugar Crullers
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Combine spices: In a bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, and cloves for your spiced sugar. Set aside the fragrant mix to let those warm aromas mingle.
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Heat oil: Fill a heavy-bottomed saucepan or cast iron Dutch oven with about 4 inches of oil. Heat it over medium heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C) on a candy thermometer, ensuring your crullers fry to golden perfection.
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Prepare parchment: Cut 14 to 15 squares of parchment paper, each measuring approximately 3” x 3”. This will serve as the base for your crullers while frying.
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Create template: Using a cookie cutter, draw a circle about 2 ¾” in diameter on a piece of paper. This will guide your piping and help maintain a uniform shape.
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Fit piping bag: Take a large reusable piping bag and fit it with a closed star tip, ready to transform your dough into beautiful cruller shapes.
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Mix wet ingredients: In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the milk, water, butter, sugar, salt, and vanilla bean paste. Heat while stirring until the butter melts and the mixture begins to boil gently.
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Add flour: Remove the saucepan from heat and add the flour all at once. Mix quickly with a wooden spoon to combine it into a thick, smooth paste, ensuring no lumps remain.
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Cook batter: Return the saucepan to low heat and cook the mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This process helps to dry it out and prepares it for the next step.
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Cool down: Transfer the mixture to a stand mixer bowl fitted with a paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed for 1 minute to allow it to cool slightly before adding eggs.
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Incorporate eggs: With the mixer running on low, slowly stream in the 240 g of beaten egg. Increase the speed to medium and mix for about 4 minutes until fully incorporated and the batter is silky.
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Test consistency: Check the batter by dipping a spatula in—if it forms a V that breaks off cleanly, it’s ready! If it’s too stiff, add an extra beaten egg and mix until you’re satisfied with the texture.
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Pipe the dough: Transfer the choux pastry to your prepared piping bag. Using the traced circle as a guide, pipe circles onto the parchment squares, flicking your wrist at the end to create those lovely tips.
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Fry crullers: In batches, carefully lower two to three doughnuts at a time into the hot oil, ridged side down. Ensure they have space to puff up and expand.
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Remove parchment: With tongs, gently remove the parchment paper from the crullers and discard it before they fry fully.
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Fry golden brown: Let them fry for about 7 minutes, turning them often, until they are a beautiful golden brown all around.
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Drain and coat: Once fried, remove the crullers from the oil and let them drain on a wire rack for approximately 1 minute. Then, toss them gently in your prepared spiced sugar mixture to coat.
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Repeat: Place the freshly coated crullers on a rack. Repeat the frying process with the remaining doughnuts until they’re all beautifully golden and sweetened.
Optional: Serve warm for the best texture and flavor experience!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Spiced Sugar Crullers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the choux pastry dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to step 12, then place the piping bag filled with dough in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to fry, allow the dough to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before piping and frying to ensure it’s at the right consistency and temperature. The spiced sugar mixture can also be made ahead and kept in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just toss the warm crullers in the sugar right after frying for that irresistible coating. Embrace the convenience of make-ahead options and enjoy freshly made treats with less stress on busy mornings!
How to Store and Freeze Spiced Sugar Crullers
Room Temperature: Keep your crullers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their texture and flavor.
Fridge: For fresher taste, store crullers in the fridge for up to a week, placing parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.
Freezer: Freeze leftover crullers in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat crullers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes until heated through.
Spiced Sugar Cruller Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own with these delightful twists that elevate the classic cruller experience.
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Pumpkin Spice: Incorporate 1 cup of pumpkin puree and adjust spices to include more cinnamon and nutmeg for a fall-inspired treat. The vibrant orange color and cozy flavors will warm your heart.
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Lemon Zest: Add the zest of one lemon to the dough for a bright, citrusy kick. This will perfectly balance the richness of the cruller with a refreshing zing that awakens your palate.
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Chocolate Dip: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled crullers for an indulgent touch. Just imagine biting into one and discovering a gooey chocolate surprise!
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Coconut Flakes: Toss a handful of toasted coconut flakes into the spiced sugar for a tropical texture. This creates a delightful crunch that’s perfect for sunny days.
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Maple Glaze: Substitute the spiced sugar coating with a maple glaze for a sweet new layer. The warm notes of maple syrup add a wonderful depth that feels like a cozy hug.
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Chili Chocolate: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, mix cayenne pepper or chili powder into your spiced sugar. The surprising kick will have your taste buds dancing!
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Almond Extract: Swap vanilla bean paste for almond extract for a nutty flavor twist. This subtle change takes the crullers to an elegant level and enhances the overall aroma.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make these crullers gluten-friendly. You’ll still get that light, airy texture everyone loves!
Each variation invites you to create a unique, personalized cruller that matches the mood of the moment or the palate of your loved ones!
Expert Tips for Spiced Sugar Crullers
Perfect Temperature: Ensure your oil reaches 375°F (190°C) before frying. Too cold oil can make them greasy, while too hot will burn them quickly.
Piping Technique: Use a steady pressure when piping the dough onto parchment. Flick your wrist for those lovely tips that make the crullers visually appealing!
Don’t Rush the Batter: Allow the dough to cool slightly before adding eggs. Mixing in hot batter can result in scrambled eggs rather than a silky, smooth consistency.
Batch Frying: Fry only two to three crullers at a time to maintain the oil temperature. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking!
Cool Before Coating: Giving the crullers a minute to drain on a wire rack will help the spiced sugar stick better and enhance their flavor.
These tips will ensure your Spiced Sugar Crullers turn out perfectly every time!
What to Serve with Spiced Sugar Crullers?
The delightful crunch and aromatic sweetness of these crullers creates the perfect opportunity for a cozy meal experience.
- Warm Coffee: A cup of rich, dark brew balances the sweetness, highlighting the crullers’ spices beautifully.
- Chai Tea: The creamy and spiced flavors of chai complement the warmth of the crullers for a delightful pairing.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh, vibrant fruits like berries and citrus add a refreshing contrast to the indulgent donuts, keeping your palate lively.
Serve crullers alongside a fruit salad. The juicy bursts of flavor and natural sweetness harmonize with the spiced sugar, creating a well-rounded experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream can make for a decadent treat, melting into the crullers and adding richness.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: Drizzling maple syrup enhances the sweet spice, blending flawlessly for a comforting indulgence.
- Chocolate Sauce: Rich chocolate sauce can take your crullers to the next level, offering a delightful dipping option.
For an extra touch, enjoy them with chocolate sauce. The deep flavors create a luscious pairing that elevates your cruller experience even further.
- Whipped Cream: Lightened whipped cream can balance the sweetness, providing a light and airy texture that complements each bite.
- Sparkling Water: To cleanse the palate, serve with a bubbly citrus sparkling water, refreshing between treats.
- Honey Butter: Spread a dollop of honey butter on warm crullers for a sweet, buttery finish that’s absolutely divine.
Spiced Sugar Crullers Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting ingredients, particularly for the spices?
Absolutely! When selecting spices, make sure they’re fresh. Look for vibrant colors and an aromatic scent. If your ground spices are faded or have been sitting in the pantry for over six months, consider replacing them for the best flavor explosion in your Spiced Sugar Crullers.
How should I store leftover crullers for maximum freshness?
I recommend placing your crullers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft yet helps maintain that delightful crunch. If you’d like them to stay fresher longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, but be sure to layer parchment paper between them to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze the crullers for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze your Spiced Sugar Crullers, first arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer until firm. Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
What do I do if my batter seems too thick or too runny?
If your batter appears too thick, try adding one additional lightly beaten egg and mix until the desired consistency is reached. You want a batter that forms a smooth “V” shape when lifted with a spatula. Conversely, if it’s too runny, consider adding a bit more flour, but be careful not to overdo it; small adjustments go a long way!
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Very! For those with dietary restrictions, it’s essential to note that the recipe contains egg and dairy, which are common allergens. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use a flax egg as a substitute for the eggs or plant-based milk to replace the whole milk. Just keep in mind that texture and flavor might vary slightly from the original recipe.
These FAQs should help guide your cruller-making adventure while ensuring you can enjoy them perfectly, even days later!
Delicious Spiced Sugar Crullers to Brighten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, and cloves for your spiced sugar. Set aside the fragrant mix.
- Fill a heavy-bottomed saucepan or cast iron Dutch oven with about 4 inches of oil. Heat it over medium heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C) on a candy thermometer.
- Cut 14 to 15 squares of parchment paper, each measuring approximately 3” x 3”.
- Using a cookie cutter, draw a circle about 2 ¾” in diameter on a piece of paper as a guide for piping.
- Take a large reusable piping bag and fit it with a closed star tip.
- Combine milk, water, butter, sugar, salt, and vanilla bean paste in a medium saucepan. Heat while stirring until the butter melts and the mixture begins to boil gently.
- Remove saucepan from heat and add flour all at once. Mix quickly with a wooden spoon to combine into a thick paste.
- Return saucepan to low heat and cook the mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Transfer mixture to a stand mixer bowl fitted with a paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed for 1 minute to cool slightly before adding eggs.
- With the mixer running on low, slowly stream in the beaten egg. Increase speed to medium and mix for about 4 minutes until fully incorporated.
- Check the batter by dipping a spatula in—if it forms a V that breaks off cleanly, it's ready! If too stiff, add an extra egg and mix until satisfied.
- Transfer the choux pastry to your prepared piping bag. Using the traced circle as a guide, pipe circles onto the parchment squares.
- Carefully lower two to three doughnuts into the hot oil, ridged side down, ensuring space to puff up.
- Gently remove the parchment paper from the crullers before they fry fully.
- Let them fry for about 7 minutes, turning often, until they are beautifully golden brown.
- Once fried, remove the crullers from the oil and let them drain on a wire rack for about 1 minute. Toss in the spiced sugar mixture to coat.
- Place the coated crullers on a rack. Repeat frying with remaining doughnuts until all are beautifully golden.