Cruellers
Cruellers are delightful fried pastries with warm spices and a soft, flaky texture. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, they appeal to those who enjoy sweet, crispy treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat butter and sugar until well combined.
- Add eggs and milk, mixing thoroughly.
- Combine all dry ingredients and sift together.
- Gradually add dry mixture to wet ingredients, mixing to form a dough.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut the dough into triangles.
- Slit the middle of each triangle.
- Pull the point of the triangle through the slit to shape the crueller.
- Fry in hot oil or shortening until golden brown on both sides.
- Drain on paper towels and let cool.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, make sure not to overmix the dough once the dry ingredients are added. If you don't have nutmeg, cinnamon can be a delicious alternative. For a sweeter option, consider adding a dash of vanilla extract. Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect golden brown color, similar to the results you’d get with No Bake While You Sleep Cookies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cruellers warm, dusted with powdered sugar for a delightful treat. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea and can be enjoyed as a sweet breakfast or snack. For a fun twist, serve with a side of fruit preserves or whipped cream, making it a delightful addition to any brunch spread alongside Mrs. Trant'S Squash Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cruellers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you prefer them fresh, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for longer storage. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cruellers contains roughly 621 calories, with 15g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (37% of the Daily Value), protein (30% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 792mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these instead of frying them?
While cruellers are traditionally fried for that perfect crispiness, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes. They won't have the same texture, but they can still be delicious, especially if you're looking for a lighter option.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are ideal for frying cruellers. These oils have high smoke points and won't impart strong flavors, allowing the spices in the cruellers to shine through.
How can I make these gluten-free?
To make gluten-free cruellers, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for better structure. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly, so keep an eye on the dough consistency.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).