Homemade Honey Cruller Donuts Recipe

Introduction

Homemade Honey Cruller Donuts are light, airy, and irresistibly sweet treats made from choux dough. They are perfectly fried to a golden brown and finished with a luscious honey glaze that adds a delicate sweetness. These donuts are a delightful twist on classic crullers, perfect for breakfast or a special snack.

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 6 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 cup all purpose flour
• 3 eggs
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the glaze:

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 4 tbsp milk

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small saucepan, bring the water, butter, and sugar to a boil. Add the flour all at once and whisk to combine. Switch to a wooden spoon, reduce heat to medium, and stir the dough continuously until a thin film forms on the bottom of the pan and the dough has dried out.
2. Step 2: Transfer the hot dough to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed to cool the dough slightly. Add eggs one at a time, mixing fully after each addition until smooth.
3. Step 3: Fit a piping bag with a large star tip and fill it with the dough. Cut 3 x 3 inch squares of parchment paper. Pipe even donut rings onto each square without overlapping the ends of the dough.
4. Step 4: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or deep pot to 375°F (190°C). Carefully place one or two donuts, parchment side up, into the hot oil. The donuts will separate from the parchment within seconds—remove the paper with tongs. Fry until deep golden brown on one side, then flip and fry the other side. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove donuts and drain on paper towels or a cooling rack. Adjust frying time to ensure donuts are cooked through.
5. Step 5: Mix powdered sugar, honey, and milk in a small bowl to create the glaze. Dip the top of each cooled donut into the glaze and place on a wire rack to set completely before serving. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Make sure to pipe the donut rings evenly without overlapping the dough ends to achieve the classic cruller ridges.
• Use a candy thermometer to keep the oil temperature steady at 375°F for even frying and perfect texture.
• For a different flavor, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the glaze or dust with cinnamon sugar instead.

Storage

Store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days for best freshness. Avoid refrigerating, as it can dry them out. To reheat, warm donuts briefly in a microwave or oven to restore softness before glazing.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

It’s best to pipe and fry the dough fresh for the lightest texture. The dough can be mixed a few hours in advance and refrigerated, but bring it back to room temperature before piping.

What if my donuts are doughy inside?

Make sure your oil temperature is correct and fry the donuts long enough for the centers to cook through. You may need to fry a little longer at a slightly lower heat to avoid burning the outside before the inside cooks.