Cronuts

If you’ve been on social media or visited a bakery in the last few years, you’ve likely heard of the trendy hybrid treat known as cronuts. This delightful creation, a fusion of croissant and donut, has taken the dessert world by storm, and for good reason! With flaky layers and a sweet, doughnut-like finish, cronuts are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a decadent snack. Today, I’m excited to share an easy recipe that uses store-bought puff pastry, making it simple for anyone to whip up a batch of these delicious pastries at home. Let’s dive in!

Why This Recipe Works

This cronut recipe is designed to be approachable for home bakers of all skill levels. By using pre-made puff pastry sheets, we save time without sacrificing that all-important flaky texture. The addition of a simple egg wash gives the cronuts a beautiful golden color while the frying method creates a crisp exterior. The result is a pair of sweet, airy pastries that are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Ingredient Notes

• 1 box puff pastry sheets: Look for high-quality frozen puff pastry, which will puff beautifully when fried.
• 1 large egg: This will be used to create an egg wash, giving your cronuts a lovely sheen.
• 1 tablespoon water: To mix with the egg for the wash.
• 2 cups vegetable oil: For frying. Choose a neutral oil that can withstand high heat.
• Powdered sugar: For dusting the finished cronuts, adding sweetness and a touch of elegance.

Appliances & Accessories

• Frying Pan or Deep Fryer: A heavy-bottomed pan is ideal for frying to ensure even heat distribution.
• Rolling Pin: For rolling out your puff pastry, if needed.
• Round Cutter: To cut out the dough into perfect circles.
• Slotted Spoon: For safely removing the cronuts from the oil.
• Cooling Rack: To help drain excess oil after frying.

Cronuts in Steps

Step 1: Prepare Your Puff Pastry

Start by thawing your puff pastry sheets according to the package instructions. Once thawed, gently roll out the pastry on a lightly floured surface to ensure even thickness. Aim for about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 2: Cut the Dough

Using a round cutter, cut out circles from the dough. You’ll want to cut as many as possible while minimizing leftover scraps. Use a smaller round cutter or a bottle cap to cut a hole in the center of each circle, creating the classic doughnut shape.

Step 3: Make the Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together the large egg and 1 tablespoon of water. This mixture will help the cronuts achieve a beautiful, golden color when fried.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In your frying pan or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for frying, ensuring that the cronuts cook evenly without absorbing too much oil.

Step 5: Fry the Cronuts

Carefully place a few cronuts into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to flip them gently.

Step 6: Drain and Dust

Once fried, remove the cronuts from the oil and place them on a cooling rack to drain any excess oil. While they are still warm, generously dust them with powdered sugar for that classic cronut finish.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Serve your freshly made cronuts to eager friends and family. They’re best enjoyed warm, but can also be stored for a day or two. Indulge in the delightful layers and the sweet, crispy exterior—you’ll be hooked!

Fit It to Your Goals

• Consider filling your cronuts with flavored creams or custards for an extra special treat.
• Experiment with different toppings, such as chocolate glaze or fruit preserves.
• For a lighter version, you could bake the cronuts instead of frying them, though the texture will differ.
• Make a larger batch and freeze some for later indulgence!

Don’t Do This

• Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying. This can cause the temperature of the oil to drop, resulting in greasy cronuts.
• Don’t skip the egg wash. It’s essential for achieving that beautiful golden finish.
• Don’t rush the frying process; allow each side to cook thoroughly for the perfect crunch.
• Don’t forget to let the cronuts cool on a rack to avoid sogginess.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare the dough ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. If you have leftover cronuts, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade puff pastry for cronuts?

Absolutely! If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade puff pastry can elevate the flavor and texture of your cronuts. Just ensure it’s rolled out to the same thickness as store-bought pastry.

What can I use instead of vegetable oil for frying?

You can use any neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola oil or peanut oil. Just avoid oils with strong flavors that may alter the taste of your cronuts.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

A good way to test the oil is to drop a small piece of dough into it. If it sizzles and bubbles immediately, the oil is ready. You can also use a thermometer to check for the ideal frying temperature of 350°F (175°C).

Can I make these cronuts gluten-free?

Yes! You can use gluten-free puff pastry instead. Check the package instructions for any specific baking adaptations needed to achieve the best results.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Classic Donuts
• Homemade Croissants
• Churros with Chocolate Sauce
• Cream-Filled Pastries

Save & Share

If you enjoyed this cronut recipe, don’t forget to save it for later and share it with your friends! Everyone deserves to experience the bliss of homemade cronuts. Happy baking!