The honey cruller donut is a beloved treat known for its light, airy interior and beautifully twisted shape. Unlike cake donuts, which are dense, or yeast donuts, which are fluffy, honey crullers have a delicate choux pastry base that creates a texture similar to cream puffs. Once fried to golden perfection, they are dipped in a sweet honey glaze that enhances their subtle richness. While store-bought versions are popular, making homemade honey cruller donuts is surprisingly achievable with the right approach. This recipe will guide you through every step so you can enjoy fresh, delicious crullers right from your own kitchen.
What Is a Honey Cruller Donut?
A honey cruller is a type of donut made from pâte à choux (choux pastry), which is also used in éclairs and profiteroles. Its signature ridged appearance comes from piping the dough into rings and frying them. The final touch is a shiny honey glaze that gives the donut its name and sweet flavor. These donuts are typically lighter than traditional varieties, offering a slightly crispy outside and a soft, eggy interior.
Ingredients for Honey Cruller Donuts
To make homemade honey cruller donuts, you’ll need a handful of basic ingredients, most of which are likely already in your kitchen.
For the choux pastry:
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the honey glaze:
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2-3 tablespoons milk or water
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Equipment Needed
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer (optional)
- Piping bag with a large star tip (Ateco #826 or similar)
- Scissors or knife
- Baking parchment
- Deep fryer or large pot for frying
- Slotted spoon
- Cooling rack
How to Make the Dough
Step 1: Prepare the Choux Pastry
In a saucepan, combine the water, butter, sugar, and salt. Place over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once the butter has melted, reduce the heat to low and add the flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan, about 1-2 minutes.
Remove from heat and allow the dough to cool for 5-10 minutes. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. The dough should become smooth and glossy. If mixing by hand, you’ll need some elbow grease. Using a mixer can speed up the process.
Step 2: Pipe the Donuts
Cut small squares of parchment paper (around 3×3 inches) and lightly grease them. Transfer the choux dough into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe rings of dough onto the parchment squares. Each ring should be about 3 inches wide. Set them aside to rest while you heat the oil.
Frying the Donuts
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a deep fryer or large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower a few donut rings into the oil, parchment side up. After a few seconds, use tongs to remove the paper from under the dough. Fry 2-3 donuts at a time to avoid overcrowding the pot. Fry each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts and transfer them to a cooling rack lined with paper towels. Allow them to cool while you prepare the glaze.
Making the Honey Glaze
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, honey, milk (or water), and vanilla extract. The glaze should be smooth and pourable but not too thin. Adjust the thickness by adding more sugar or liquid as needed.
Step 5: Glaze the Donuts
Once the donuts have cooled slightly but are still warm, dip the tops into the honey glaze and let the excess drip off. Place them back on the cooling rack to allow the glaze to set. You can dip the whole donut if you prefer more sweetness. Let them rest for at least 10-15 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Honey cruller donuts are best enjoyed fresh on the day they are made. Serve them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a satisfying breakfast or afternoon treat. They also make a beautiful addition to a brunch spread or dessert tray. If you want to add variety, consider serving them with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Tips for Perfect Honey Cruller Donuts
- Don’t overmix the dough once the eggs are added mix just until smooth and glossy.
- Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature. Too hot and the donuts will burn; too cool and they’ll absorb oil and become greasy.
- Piping the dough in consistent sizes ensures even cooking.
- If you want to prepare the dough ahead of time, you can refrigerate it for up to one day before frying.
- Store leftover donuts in an airtight container for up to two days, though they are best on the same day.
Flavor Variations
Once you’ve mastered the classic honey cruller donut, try customizing the recipe with different flavors:
- Cinnamon Sugar: Skip the glaze and roll the warm donuts in cinnamon sugar.
- Lemon Glaze: Add fresh lemon juice and zest to the glaze for a citrus twist.
- Maple Glaze: Substitute honey with pure maple syrup for a rich maple flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Dip one side of the donut in melted dark or milk chocolate.
Why Homemade Crullers Are Worth the Effort
There’s something deeply satisfying about making your own donuts from scratch. Honey cruller donuts may look complicated, but they are approachable with a bit of patience. The reward is a fresh, light donut that’s far superior to most store-bought options. Homemade crullers allow you to control the sweetness, freshness, and flavor, and they’re sure to impress family and friends.
These donuts also offer a fun baking experience, especially if you enjoy working with choux pastry. The process of watching the dough puff up as it fries is both fascinating and rewarding. Plus, dipping them into the honey glaze adds that finishing touch that brings everything together.
If you’re searching for a donut recipe that combines elegance, light texture, and a touch of sweetness, the honey cruller donut is an excellent choice. This recipe for honey cruller donuts captures the airy softness and rich glaze that make them so popular. With a little effort, you can bring this bakery-style treat into your own home and customize it however you like. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion, homemade crullers are sure to delight anyone who takes a bite.