Name: Baked French Cruller Donuts: Light, Fluffy, and Irresistible
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 140 min
Ingredients: 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F); 2 tsp active dry yeast (instant yeast can be substituted); 1 tbsp granulated sugar; 1 large egg (adds moisture and richness); 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted) (can use margarine for dairy-free); 1 tsp vanilla extract (can swap with almond extract); 2 cups all-purpose flour (can experiment with bread or cake flour); 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup powdered sugar (use fresh sugar for best results); 2 tbsp milk (adjust for desired thickness); 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (can consider other extracts)

As I took my first bite of these delightful baked French cruller donuts, I couldn’t help but smile. The light, airy texture felt like a gentle hug for my taste buds, while the sweet glaze brought a satisfying finish that felt indulgent yet guilt-free. Perfect for those of us seeking a healthier alternative to traditionally fried donuts, this simple recipe offers a lower-fat option without sacrificing flavor. With quick prep and easy baking, making these crullers is a surefire way to turn an ordinary brunch into a delicious celebration. Whether you’re enjoying them with coffee during a leisurely morning or sharing them with loved ones at an afternoon gathering, I can’t help but wonder: how will you choose to enjoy these sweet, fluffy creations?

Why Are These Donuts So Irresistible?

Healthy Surprise: These baked French cruller donuts are a delightful treat that won’t weigh you down—offering a guilt-free indulgence.
Fluffy Delight: The light, airy texture is reminiscent of a delicate pastry, making each bite a blissful experience.
Sweet Finish: A glossy glaze adds the perfect touch of sweetness to balance the dough’s lightness.
Effortless Baking: With quick prep and hands-off baking time, you’ll have these delectable donuts ready to impress in no time!
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy afternoon snack, they’re sure to win over family and friends. For more delicious baked options, check out my Baked Cod Coconut or Baked Stuffed Shrimp.

Baked French Cruller Donuts Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create these delightful baked French cruller donuts!

For the Dough

Warm Milk – Activates yeast; ensure it’s 105-115°F for the perfect rise.
Active Dry Yeast – Essential for leavening; instant yeast can be substituted in equal amounts.
Granulated Sugar – Enhances sweetness and helps feed the yeast for fermentation.
Large Egg – Adds moisture and richness, providing structure to the batter.
Unsalted Butter (melted) – Introduces flavor and tenderness; feel free to use margarine for a dairy-free option.
Vanilla Extract – A flavor kicker; swap for almond extract for a unique twist.
All-Purpose Flour – The heart of the donuts; bread or cake flour can yield different textures if you wish to experiment.
Salt – Elevates flavor, balancing the sweetness of the donuts.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Forms the sweet base of the glaze; use fresh sugar for the best results.
Milk – Adds creaminess to the glaze; adjust for the desired thickness.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor of the glaze; consider swapping with other extracts for variety.

Now you’re all set to create these irresistibly light baked French cruller donuts! Happy baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked French Cruller Donuts

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk (105–115°F), 2 tsp active dry yeast, and 1 tbsp granulated sugar. Allow the mixture to sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, signaling that the yeast is active. In another bowl, whisk together 1 large egg, 4 tbsp melted unsalted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Gradually pour this wet mixture into the yeast mixture, mixing well.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 tsp salt together to ensure even distribution. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough begins to form. Lightly flour your work surface and knead the dough for approximately 5–7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic, ensuring a light texture for your Baked French Cruller Donuts.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Transfer the kneaded dough into a greased bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Place the bowl in a warm, draft-free area to rise for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. This rising process is crucial for creating that airy texture unique to Baked French Cruller Donuts, so be patient.

Step 4: Shape the Donuts
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces, rolling each piece into a long rope. Twist each rope into a cruller shape and place them on an ungreased baking sheet. Cover them lightly with plastic wrap and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes to fluff up before baking.

Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the donuts complete their second rise. Once ready, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the donuts for 15–20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking; a light golden color is the perfect indication.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
While the donuts bake, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tbsp milk, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. You can adjust the thickness of the glaze by adding more milk or sugar as desired. Once the donuts have baked, allow them to cool for a few minutes before glazing.

Step 7: Glaze the Donuts
After cooling, dip each baked French cruller donut into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the glazed donuts on a wire rack to let the glaze set properly. A thin, glossy layer will form as it dries, adding that irresistible finish to your sweet creations.

Baked French Cruller Donuts Variations

Feel free to explore these creative twists to make your baked French cruller donuts uniquely yours!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with margarine and use almond milk for a creamy, dairy-free experience. You’ll retain the delightful fluffiness while accommodating dietary restrictions.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to ensure everyone can enjoy these treats, no matter their dietary needs. Just be sure to use a flour blend that includes xanthan gum for the best results.
Flavor Boost: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a fragrant twist that adds depth to every bite. It’s a simple change that can elevate the flavor profile unexpectedly!
Citrus Zing: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to your dough for a refreshing citrus hit that cuts through the sweetness. This adds a bright, sunny note that complements the glaze beautifully.
Chocolate Drizzle: After glazing your donuts, drizzle melted chocolate on top for a delightful chocolate-covered experience. This simple addition can make your crullers feel extra indulgent!
Herbal Hint: Infuse your milk with a sprig of mint or rosemary before mixing it with other ingredients for an aromatic twist. This unique flavor pairing will surprise and delight your taste buds.
Spicy Kick: Blend a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough to give your donuts a warm, spiced flavor that works wonderfully with the sweet glaze. It’s like a hug in every bite!
Nutty Crunch: Fold in some finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, into the dough for added texture and flavor. This will create a lovely contrast with the airy softness of the donuts.

These variations can take your Baked French Cruller Donuts to new heights! Mix and match to find your perfect combination. If you’re looking for more delicious baked options, be sure to check out my Baked Cod Coconut or Baked Stuffed Shrimp. Happy baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Baked French Cruller Donuts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours ahead of time by mixing it and allowing it to rise, then refrigerating it after the first rise. To ensure freshness and retain the airy texture, cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, simply shape the donuts and let them rise for 30 minutes before baking. Additionally, the glaze can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for convenience. With this prep, you’ll have delicious, fluffy donuts ready to impress with minimal effort on those busy mornings!

Expert Tips for Baked French Cruller Donuts

Perfect Milk Temp: Ensure your warm milk is between 105-115°F to activate the yeast effectively, which is crucial for light, airy Baked French Cruller Donuts.
Gentle Kneading: Avoid overkneading the dough; knead just until smooth to maintain that delightful texture that makes these donuts so irresistible.
Warm Rising Place: Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area. This step is essential to achieving the perfect puff and airy quality.
Watch the Color: Bake until golden brown, about 15-20 minutes. A light golden color indicates they are baked perfectly, avoiding a dry outcome.
Cool Before Glazing: Allow the donuts to cool slightly before glazing so the glaze sets beautifully without melting away. Enjoy the sweet finish!

How to Store and Freeze Baked French Cruller Donuts

Fridge: Store leftover donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and maintain their delightful texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze completely cooled donuts in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your Baked French Cruller Donuts, reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. This will help restore their fluffy texture!

What to Serve with Baked French Cruller Donuts

Indulging in these light and fluffy delights opens up a world of pairing possibilities that will elevate your snack or brunch experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing, vibrant touch that balances the sweetness of the donuts.
Rich Coffee: Bold, freshly brewed coffee creates a perfect harmony with the sweet, airy donuts, enhancing your morning ritual.
Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or mint tea offers a soothing contrast to the donuts’ sugary glaze, making for a pleasant afternoon break.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert, serve these crullers with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—an indulgent sweet treat combination that’s simply blissful.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup will introduce an additional layer of depth and flavor that pairs beautifully with the donuts’ texture.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, berries, and granola in a parfait for a wholesome breakfast that complements the sugar-glazed donuts and adds a crunch.
Chocolate Sauce: A rich chocolate sauce adds a decadent touch and invites a new level of enjoyment—great for those who crave a little extra sweetness.
Cream Cheese Spread: A smear of flavored cream cheese can provide a delightful tang that offsets the sweetness of the crullers perfectly.
Sparkling Water: A refreshing, bubbly drink helps cleanse the palate and adds a celebratory feel to your donut enjoyment.
Lemonade: A glass of tart homemade lemonade will cut through the sweetness, making your brunch or snack feel even more vibrant and inviting.

Baked French Cruller Donuts Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right milk for the dough?
Absolutely! It’s essential to use warm milk (105-115°F) to activate the yeast properly. If you’re unsure, a food thermometer is your best friend. Whole milk can give a richer flavor, but you can use skim or non-dairy alternatives too, just keep an eye on the temperature!

What’s the best way to store Baked French Cruller Donuts?
After making these delightful donuts, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option! Just make sure they’re completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months!

Can I freeze the donuts before glazing them?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, allow the donuts to cool completely before placing them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes to refresh their lovely texture before glazing.

What do I do if my dough isn’t rising?
Very! If your dough isn’t rising, check a few things. First, make sure your yeast is fresh and activated properly in the warm milk and sugar. The dough also needs to rise in a warm, draft-free area. If the kitchen is cold, try placing it in the oven (turned off) with the light on for a cozy environment. You should see an increase in size after about an hour.

Can pets eat Baked French Cruller Donuts?
While the ingredients may be safe for most pets in small amounts, it’s best to avoid giving them any baked goods that contain sugar or dairy, as these can upset their stomachs. If you’re looking to treat your furry friend, consider making them homemade dog treats instead!

Are there any easy substitutes I can make for allergies?
Certainly! For a dairy-free option, swap out the unsalted butter for margarine or coconut oil, and use almond or oat milk in place of regular milk. If gluten is a concern, experimenting with gluten-free all-purpose flour can work well, though the texture may vary slightly. Feel free to check with your loved ones for their preferred substitutes to keep everyone happy!