Welcome the Flavors of Oven Baked French Cruller Donuts Recipe
There’s something truly special about French cruller donuts—their delicate, airy texture combined with that golden crisp exterior makes them impossible to resist. I love how this Oven Baked French Cruller Donuts Recipe brings all that classic bakery charm right into your own kitchen without the fuss of frying. It’s perfect for when you want a treat that feels a little indulgent but still fun and family-friendly.
Whether you’re looking for a cheerful weekend breakfast or a bubbly, sweet snack to share at a casual get-together, these donuts fit the bill. The fragrance of vanilla and warm butter fills your kitchen as they bake, inviting you to savor that first warm bite. I’m excited for you to try this recipe—you’ll enjoy how simple steps deliver those heavenly crullers every time.
Daisy’s Top Tips
- Flavor Builder: Stir a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a cozy twist that elevates each bite.
- Texture Magic: Make sure to soften the butter properly to beat it fluffy; it helps keep those crullers light and airy.
- Budget Friendly: Use shelf-stable milk powder and regular granulated sugar to keep pantry staples handy without breaking the bank.
- Time Saver: Use a piping bag to fill the donut pan quickly and cleanly—less mess and more fun!
Market Basket & Pantry Picks
Gathering fresh and reliable ingredients makes a huge difference in any recipe, and these donuts are no exception. Using whole milk keeps the batter luscious and smooth, while fresh baking powder guarantees that pride-worthy rise. Don’t worry if you’re missing a classic ingredient—serious substitutions are easy and keep the flavors spot on.
- All-Purpose Flour: Use good-quality to give your donuts that perfect chew and hold.
- Baking Powder: Freshness is key here to achieve a bubbly, light texture.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances sweetness and brings the flavors alive.
- Unsalted Butter: Softened, not melted, adds subtle richness and buttery depth.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the dough and can be used for the glaze too.
- Eggs: Two large eggs add moisture and help bind your dough like pros.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla offers the warmest, most fragrant touch.
- Milk: Whole milk is my go-to for creaminess in the batter.
Smart Shopping Ideas
When picking butter, choose unsalted to control salt levels perfectly. Store your baking powder in an airtight container away from moisture—it loses potency fast. For vanilla, pure extract makes all the difference, but if you’re in a pinch, vanilla bean paste or even vanilla-flavored sugar can work well. Whole milk gives richness, but 2% works fine if you’re watching calories.
Cook Oven Baked French Cruller Donuts Recipe Step by Step
Ready to dive in? This Oven Baked French Cruller Donuts Recipe is straightforward and fun—perfect for a cozy baking session. Follow these lively steps, and you’ll have a batch of light, bubbly-crisp crullers to enjoy in no time.
- Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to a warm 375°F (190°C). Don’t forget to generously spray your donut pan with nonstick cooking spray—this helps ensure your donuts release beautifully without sticking like secrets in a small town.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step makes sure every bite has that even, fluffy rise—because flat donuts just aren’t the vibe.
- Beat Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, like a whipped cloud of yum. Add each egg one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in vanilla extract and milk until the batter looks deliciously smooth and creamy, like old friends at a reunion.
- Combine Mixtures: Slowly add your dry ingredients into the wet bowl, mixing just until everything comes together. Be careful not to overmix — we want airy crullers, not dense munchies!
- Fill the Pan: Transfer your luscious batter into a piping bag (or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off). Pipe the batter neatly into each donut cavity, filling about three-quarters full. This is key so your crullers rise tall and proud!
- Bake: Slide your donut pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until your donuts are golden crisp and spring back lightly when touched. The wonderful aroma now filling your kitchen is your cue that it’s almost time to indulge.
Serving the Dish with Flair
Once your Oven Baked French Cruller Donuts are cooled slightly, you’re welcome to glaze, dust with powdered sugar, or enjoy them plain—their light, buttery flavor shines through every way. I love serving these alongside a hot coffee or your favorite tea for a delightful afternoon treat. Sharing these bubbly, golden-crisp beauties is a guaranteed way to brighten up any occasion.
Serve It Up Right
- Perfect Pairings: Serve with fresh berries or a light fruit compote to balance the buttery richness.
- Plating Magic: Present your crullers on a rustic wooden board or a pretty cake stand for that homey, welcoming vibe.
- Leftover Love: Keep leftovers tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze individually in airtight bags.
- Occasion Twist: For celebrations, drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauces and sprinkle with chopped nuts or festive sprinkles.
Fun Variations with Oven Baked French Cruller Donuts Recipe
- Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced upgrade.
- Mix lemon zest into the dough and top with a light lemon glaze for a bright, tangy twist.
- Dip cooled donuts in melted dark or white chocolate and let them set for a decadent finish.
- Stir a tablespoon of cocoa powder into the dry ingredients for a chocolatey version.
- Sprinkle crushed nuts or coconut flakes on top of glazed crullers for extra crunch.
- Try almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty aromatic change that’s unexpected and delicious.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Refrigerating: Store donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days—avoid the fridge as it can dry them out.
- Freezing: Freeze crullers individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes to revive their fresh-baked texture.
Oven Baked French Cruller Donuts Recipe FAQs
- Q: Can I use milk alternatives like almond or oat milk?
A: Absolutely! Unsweetened versions work best to maintain the flavor balance. - Q: What if I don’t have a donut pan?
A: You can pipe the batter onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in ring shapes, but the texture may vary slightly. - Q: Why is my batter thick and hard to pipe?
A: Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, and slowly add milk to reach a pipeable consistency. - Q: How do I get that perfect crispy outside and tender inside?
A: Proper oven temperature plus not overmixing the batter are key to achieving that beautiful texture. - Q: Can I add glaze or icing?
A: Definitely! A simple powdered sugar glaze or even chocolate icing complements these crullers wonderfully.
Oven Baked French Cruller Donuts Recipe
These Oven Baked French Cruller Donuts are light, fluffy, and delightfully tender with a perfect balance of sweetness and vanilla aroma. Made with a simple batter and baked instead of fried, these crullers are an easier, less greasy alternative to traditional donuts, ideal for breakfast or a sweet snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 27-30 minutes
- Yield: 8 donuts
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons Baking Powder
- ¼ teaspoon Salt
Wet Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, softened
- ½ cup Granulated Sugar
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- ½ cup Whole Milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a donut pan with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the donuts don’t stick and bake evenly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step ensures even rising and proper texture.
- Beat Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and whole milk until fully combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can make the donuts dense.
- Fill the Pan: Transfer the batter into a piping bag or a zip-top plastic bag with one corner snipped off. Pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full to allow for proper rising.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool before glazing or serving.
Notes
- Make sure your baking powder is fresh for best rising results.
- Do not overmix the batter; mix just until combined to keep the donuts tender.
- Use a piping bag for even donut shapes and consistent sizes.
- Let the donuts cool completely before glazing or serving to avoid melting the glaze.
- These donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
