Ingredients
Scale
- For the Cruller Dough:
- 1 cup water
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 to 4 large eggs, room temperature
- Vegetable oil for frying
- For the Apple Cider Glaze:
- 1 cup apple cider (reduced to 1/4 cup)
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider
Pour the apple cider into a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring the cider to a boil and let it simmer until it reduces to about 1/4 cup of concentrated liquid. This process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. Set it aside to cool completely before making the glaze. - Step 2: Create the Dough Base
In a medium saucepan, combine the water, butter, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until a smooth dough forms and pulls away from the sides of the pan. Continue to cook and stir for about 2 minutes to cook off excess moisture; a thin film should form on the bottom of the pan. - Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
Transfer the dough to a large mixing bowl or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Let it cool for 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition. The dough is ready when it is smooth, shiny, and forms a “V” shape when lifted with the spatula. You may not need the fourth egg, so watch the consistency carefully. - Step 4: Shape and Fry
Heat 2 inches of oil in a heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Cut 3-inch squares of parchment paper and grease them lightly. Pipe rings of dough onto each square using a large star tip. Carefully drop the parchment paper with the dough side down into the hot oil. After 30 seconds, use tongs to remove the parchment paper. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and puffed. Drain on a wire rack. - Step 5: Glaze the Donuts
Whisk together the reduced apple cider, powdered sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla in a shallow bowl. While the crullers are still slightly warm, dip the top half of each donut into the glaze. Place them back on the wire rack to let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.
- Cook Time: 50 minutes