Apple Cider Crullers
Recipe Overview
Overview
Apple cider crullers are a delightful twist on the classic French pastry, combining the rich, sweet flavor of apple cider with the warm spices of fall. The process begins with reducing apple cider to intensify its flavor, which is then mixed with butter, sugar, and a hint of salt to create a rich dough. The addition of Chinese five spice gives these crullers a unique flavor profile that sets them apart from traditional recipes.
The dough is mixed until it reaches a smooth consistency, and then it’s important to let it cool slightly before adding the eggs. This step is crucial to avoid scrambling the eggs in the hot mixture. Once the eggs are incorporated, the dough should be thick yet pliable, allowing it to hold its shape when piped.
After chilling, the dough is piped onto squares of parchment paper, making it easy to transfer into hot oil for frying. The crullers fry to a beautiful golden brown, and once cooked, they can be rolled in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon for an extra touch of sweetness. These crullers are not only delicious but also a fun project for a cozy fall day, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Whether enjoyed fresh out of the fryer or saved for later, these apple cider crullers are sure to impress with their unique flavor and delightful texture. They make a wonderful addition to any autumn gathering or holiday celebration.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Reduce two cups of apple cider until it is about half its original volume.
Tip: Reducing apple cider concentrates the flavor.
Add one stick of butter to the boiling cider.
Add about a tablespoon of sugar and 3/4 teaspoon of kosher salt.
Tip: Adding sugar can make the crullers crispier.
Add all-purpose flour, cinnamon, and Chinese five spice to the mixture.
Mix vigorously until the flour clumps disappear and the mixture resembles Play-Doh.
Let the mixture cool slightly before adding eggs.
Transfer the mixture to a stand mixer to cool faster.
Tip: Mix until the eggs are completely combined before adding more.
Add four whole eggs and one egg white to the cooled mixture.
Mix until the eggs are fully incorporated before adding more.
Tip: The amount of egg may vary based on humidity and flour type.
Perform the V test to check if the dough is the right consistency.
Tip: It's better for the dough to be a little loose than too dense.
Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about an hour.
Tip: Cover dough with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.
Cut parchment paper into 2x2 or 3x3 inch squares.
Fill a piping bag with the dough using a large star tip.
Tip: Using a piping bag is recommended over a Ziploc bag for better control.
Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to about 360°F.
Tip: Check oil temperature by observing bubbles around a wooden spoon.
Pipe the dough onto the parchment squares.
Fry the crullers with parchment paper for at least one minute.
Carefully remove the parchment paper from the crullers.
Flip the crullers and fry for another two minutes.
Tip: Fry longer than you think to ensure the crullers are cooked through.
Mix 1/2 cup of sugar with cinnamon and Chinese five spice.
Tip: Spices won't dissolve in glaze, leading to a speckled appearance.
Coat the fried crullers in the sugar mixture.
Serve the apple cider crullers.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Dairy
→ Substitution: Coconut Oil
Ingredient: Eggs
→ Substitution: Flaxseed Meal + Water
Ingredient: Gluten
→ Substitution: Gluten-Free Flour Blend
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Reducing apple cider concentrates its flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the crullers.
- •Chinese five spice adds a unique warmth that complements the sweetness of the apple cider.
- •Chilling the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to pipe and fry.
- •Using parchment paper while frying prevents the dough from sticking and makes handling easier.
